WASHINGTON—Today, Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson highlighted the inclusion of $4,000,000 in funding for the Microelectronics Research and Education Project in Boise, Idaho, at his request through Community Project Funding (CPF) in the Fiscal Year 2026 Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act.

“Idaho is at the forefront of the semiconductor industry, and Boise State University is uniquely positioned to support this continued development through its outstanding science and engineering programs,” said Rep. Simpson. “However, Boise State faces challenges in rapidly expanding its research efforts to meet regional and national workforce needs. This funding is essential to prepare the next generation of the semiconductor workforce in Idaho. I am proud to support this project, which addresses the needs of Boise State students, Idaho’s semiconductor industry, and workforce needs.”

“Once again, Congressman Simpson has secured critical funding that enables Boise State University faculty and students to pursue world-class research at the heart of American competitiveness and vital to the semiconductor industry in Idaho and across our nation,” said Interim President Jeremiah Shinn. “This investment not only advances the development of new classes of materials for quantum computing, but also strengthens engineering and technical workforce development in the Treasure Valley and throughout our state. We are grateful for Congressman Simpson’s ongoing support, which is helping to build the skilled workforce that fuels Idaho’s semiconductor industry.”

This funding would support purchasing equipment critical for the development of patterning processes in chip fabrication and modernizing the learning environment for students. The proposed initiative will facilitate the growth of Boise State University's science and engineering programs to meet regional and national workforce development needs

Despite claims that CPF projects are "wasteful earmarks," Community Project Funding gives Members of Congress like Congressman Simpson the opportunity to bring Idaho tax dollars back home for Idaho priorities. These projects fill a clear and present need in communities across Idaho and enjoy broad community support. The federal dollars designated for CPF projects exist within existing budget limits. Rather than that money going to fund projects in different states, CPF projects give Idahoans a critical voice in determining where budgeted funding goes.

As Idaho’s only appropriator, Rep. Simpson has a unique opportunity to fight for Idaho’s priorities and ensure Idahoans’ hard-earned tax dollars return to Idaho.

The Microelectronics Research and Education Project is a part of the Fiscal Year 2026 Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. This measure has been approved by the House Appropriations Committee.