The University of Florida’s (UF) Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering announced on Thursday its creation of the Florida Semiconductor Institute (FSI), aimed at providing coordination within Florida’s burgeoning semiconductor industry.

According to the university, FSI will serve as a hub for coordinating activities related to the development and manufacturing of microchips in Florida. It will also advise the state and promote public-private partnerships to support the industry in the state.

The FSI’s founding comes following a series of federal investments to revitalize the state’s semiconductor manufacturing industry in the United States and advance chip technology research.

“Microchips are an integral part of our society. The Florida Semiconductor Institute will serve as a hub to coordinate activities that will support the development and manufacturing of these vital chips here in Florida,” UF President Ben Sasse said. “In addition to advancing Research and Development and educational opportunities, the FSI will advise the state and foster public-private partnerships to enhance what is already a vibrant microchip industry in Florida.”

The FSI will serve as a central hub for more than 60 faculty members from various departments in UF’s College of Engineering, along with academic partners from other Florida universities and private entities.

The initiative’s stated goal is to double the state’s semiconductor workforce within the next five years by offering university-level courses and professional training programs.

Last month, the State of Florida invested $50 million in its semiconductor industry to support manufacturing, advanced packaging, and development projects.

The allocation was administered through FloridaCommerce and the Florida Department of Education with the aim of bolstering the state’s manufacturing capabilities, securing its supply chain, and creating jobs. Florida currently ranks fifth in the nation for semiconductor manufacturing jobs and third for semiconductor establishments.

The $50 million will be equally divided, with $25 million allocated through the Florida Job Growth Grant Fund by FloridaCommerce and the other $25 million through the Workforce Development Capitalization Incentive Grant Program by the Florida Department of Education.

“Florida is quickly becoming the global hub for semiconductor manufacturing in the space and defense industries,” said Gov. Ron DeSantis. “By dedicating $50 million to expand our manufacturing capabilities, we are strengthening Florida’s supply chain and ensuring Florida maintains a strong economy that supports Florida families.”