The heartland of Ohio has taken another step into becoming the next Silicon Valley.

Today, Gov DeWine has announced the state is partnering with Intel, JobsOhio and the Ohio grant Alliance have partnered to formalize a semiconductor supply chain consortium.

The group, dubbed the Silicon heartland Supplier Consortium, will put Ohio in a better position to become one of two new semiconductor clusters in the U.S.

They will also help current and prospective Ohio suppliers compete for new federal grant funding for semiconductor materials and manufacturing equipment.

"Ohio is committed to ensuring the success of the Silicon Heartland," DeWine said. "Bringing together industry partners to onshore this critical industry is key to strengthening our national security, spurring future innovation, and making our economy more resilient."

In February, the U.S. Department of Commerce announced plans to fund two semiconductor clusters through the CHIPS and Science Act that will include "a robust supplier ecosystem, R&D facilities to continuously innovate new process technologies, and specialized infrastructure." 

The creation of the Silicon Heartland Supplier Consortium will contribute to Ohio's position as a leading contender for federal funds provided by this act.

"As Intel moves forward with our multi-billion investment in Ohio, we are excited to anchor the new Silicon Heartland consortium," said Jim Evers, Intel vice president and Ohio site manager. "This consortium will accelerate the formation of the Ohio semiconductor cluster and will help ensure the long-term growth and success of the semiconductor industry in the Buckeye State."