The Canadian government has announced it will invest $120m to advance domestic semiconductor manufacturing and commercialisation capabilities.
Announced by François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, Canada will finance $120m into a semiconductor project led by CMC Microsystems (CMC) worth over $220m.
Funding will be provided via the Strategic Innovation Fund to create a pan-Canadian network of leading stakeholders from an array of fields.
These stakeholders will help support semiconductor design, manufacturing and commercialisation, as well as develop cutting-edge sensor technology.
Canada as a global semiconductor supplier
Canada is solidifying its position as a global leader in semiconductor supply, recognising their importance for security, economic growth, and technological advancement.
Semiconductors are vital to Canadians’ daily lives and are integral to innovations across numerous industries, including automotive, telecommunications, and low-carbon technologies.
The FABrIC network
The Fabrication of Integrated Components for the Internet’s Edge (FABrIC) network, supported by CMC, will enhance Canada’s semiconductor and smart sensor industries.
This initiative will collaborate with CMC’s partners nationwide to:
- Develop a highly skilled talent pool
- Promote innovation in semiconductor manufacturing
- Provide Canadian businesses access to foundries
François-Philippe Champagne commented: “Semiconductors are at the centre of Canadians’ daily lives and Canada’s economy.
“We have an innovative semiconductor industry that continues to flourish in global markets and capitalise on an increasingly digital and green economy.
“The creation of FABrIC through CMC will help support Canadian innovators, and I look forward to seeing how it expands our semiconductor industry while creating good jobs.
“By investing in semiconductors today, we are investing in economic security and sustainability for all Canadians.”
Economic impact
Over the next five years, the FABrIC network aims to create nearly 325 highly skilled jobs and sustain around 440 positions throughout the project.
This network will bolster domestic semiconductor production, enhancing North American competitiveness and supply chain resilience.
FABrIC will not only support Canada’s economic growth but also foster national security and create quality middle-class jobs, ensuring a robust and resilient semiconductor supply chain across North America.
