SMART (Semiconductor Manufacturing and Advanced Research with Twins) USA Institute is a proud member of Manufacturing USA®, a network of federally sponsored manufacturing innovation institutes, and is funded by the U.S. Department of Commerce’s CHIPS for America Program through an Other Transaction agreement with the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). SMART USA Institute was established as the 18th institute within the Manufacturing USA network with the goal of developing and using digital twins to improve semiconductor design, manufacturing, advanced packaging, assembly, and test processes. Digital twins are virtual models that replicate physical objects, allowing engineers and researchers to design, develop, and test processes digitally before applying them in real life. The institute will receive $285 million in federal funding over 5 years, with industry contributions expected to be 1.5 times that amount.
Semiconductor Research Corporation (SRC) is a leading research consortium that collaborates with industry, academia, and government to advance semiconductor technology. Established in 1982, SRC focuses on a wide range of research areas, including semiconductor design, manufacturing, and packaging, to drive innovation and advance science and technology for the benefit of all its members. SMART USA, a 501(c)6 public-private partnership, is operated by SRC Manufacturing Consortium Corporation, a wholly owned subsidiary of Semiconductor Research Corporation (SRC).
