NY CREATES, Empire State Development and Governor Naomichi Suzuki Partner to Enhance International Collaboration to Strengthen High-Tech Industry Clusters
Furthers Governor Hochul’s Commitment and Strategic Investments to Establish New York State as a Global Semiconductor Hub
Governor Kathy Hochul today celebrated an international collaboration between New York State and Japan to spur opportunities in the semiconductor industry related to research and development, economic growth and workforce development. The New York Center for Research, Economic Advancement, Technology, Engineering and Science (NY CREATES), Empire State Development and Hokkaido Governor Naomichi Suzuki of Japan signed a memorandum of understanding to advance the shared goal of realizing the potential of a strong and global semiconductor ecosystem anchored by high-tech R&D hubs. The partnership, facilitated by Hokkaido, will enhance cooperation and deepen links between NY CREATES’ Albany NanoTech Complex, the largest non-profit semiconductor research and development facility of its kind in North America, and Rapidus, a burgeoning Japanese semiconductor firm under construction in Chitose that will produce two-nanometer chips, to continue to drive innovation and economic prosperity in both regions.
“New York State is leading the nation in semiconductor investment, and we are continuing to find partnerships and opportunities for growth,” Governor Hochul said. “We are honored to host Hokkaido Governor Naomichi Suzuki and his delegation and exhibit NY CREATES’ Albany NanoTech Complex, which is one of the most advanced facilities of its kind. It is international partnerships such as these that foster collaboration and growth and ensure economic success.”
Governor Naomichi Suzuki said, “The state of New York is the leading example of building a semiconductor ecosystem with academic, industry, and public collaboration. We have a lot to gain from this new framework strengthening our collaboration between ESD, New York, and Hokkaido. We see the signing of this memorandum of understanding as a good opportunity to strengthen our corporate cooperative ties with our partners in New York, including ESD and NY CREATES, as we aim to accelerate the process of the Rapidus project and the establishment of semiconductor space in Hokkaido. We are beyond excited for what is in store for our future in this partnership.”
Ahead of the MOU signing, leaders from Hokkaido received an in-depth briefing on NY CREATES's unique operating model and learned more about its resources and capabilities. The delegation toured the Albany NanoTech Complex, which is currently undergoing a $1 billion expansion to establish a first-in-the-nation High NA EUV Lithography Center in Albany. This engagement will further build on NY CREATES’ growing list of partners, including internationally, as the organization seeks to support a future National Semiconductor Technology Center facility under the federal CHIPS & Science Act. Following the signing, a Letter of Intent will be signed between Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and Hokkaido University at RPI’s campus in Troy, as part of the Capital Region visit by the Hokkaido delegation.
Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “Under Governor Hochul's leadership, New York State is emerging as a global hub for the semiconductor industry and its ecosystem. New York and Japan share a long and vibrant trade relationship, especially in the semiconductor space. Today's announcement further advances that connection and emphasizes ESD's commitment to ensuring that New York State plays a major role in the future of the industry, while supporting these vital partnerships that promote economic growth.”
Read the full press release here.