Governor Greg Abbott has announced a $2.4 million grant from the Texas Semiconductor Innovation Fund (TSIF) to Dongjin Semichem Texas, Inc. (DST) in support of its specialty chemicals and materials facility in Killeen. This expansion is projected to generate 24 new jobs and bring over $110 million in capital investment to the region.
The grant is part of Texas’ broader effort to solidify its leadership in semiconductor manufacturing. Governor Abbott emphasized the state’s historical role in chip development, stating, “Texas is where the chip was born and where the future of the semiconductor industry is building.” He highlighted that DST’s investment will help secure the U.S. semiconductor supply chain by producing ultra-high-purity photoresist thinners domestically for the first time.
The Texas Semiconductor Innovation Consortium (TSIC), established through the 2023 Texas CHIPS Act, supports grants like this to strengthen Texas’ position in the semiconductor sector. TSIC Executive Committee Chair Dr. David Daniel praised DST’s contribution, noting that the company’s expansion not only bolsters the supply chain but also creates high-quality jobs.
Dongjin Semichem Texas, a subsidiary of Dongjin USA Inc., specializes in producing critical materials used in semiconductor photolithography. The Killeen facility will replace foreign sources of specialty thinners with Texas-made alternatives, serving industries such as AI, 5G, aerospace, and defense. The expansion will include six buildings dedicated to storage, manufacturing, research, utilities, waste treatment, and security.
Dr. Chun Hyuk Lee, CEO of Dongjin Semichem Co., Ltd., expressed gratitude for the state’s support, calling the grant a “critical step” in strengthening Texas as a hub for semiconductor innovation. “With over three decades of leadership in semiconductor materials, Dongjin is committed to supporting the growth and innovation of this industry in Central Texas,” he stated.
State leaders echoed the importance of this investment. Senator Pete Flores emphasized Texas’ commitment to remaining a leader in semiconductor development while creating economic opportunities for local communities. Representative Brad Buckley praised DST’s role in driving economic growth in Killeen and West Bell County.
The Texas Semiconductor Innovation Fund was created as part of the Texas CHIPS Act to attract and support semiconductor-related businesses. Administered by the Texas CHIPS Office, the program aims to expand research, design, and manufacturing capabilities while maintaining Texas’ status as the nation’s top semiconductor hub.
