Taipei, Taiwan–Applied Materials, Inc. has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Republic of China National Science Council to establish a research and development fund in Taiwan. Based on this agreement, Applied Materials plans to donate a total of US$1 million over the next 5 years to encourage and promote innovative research and semiconductor applications development programs in Taiwan.

“Applied Materials is committed to providing Information for Everyone (TM), and to promoting local innovation in the areas we serve around the globe,” says James C. Morgan, chairman and chief executive officer. “This donation will establish a cooperative research and development fund in Taiwan. We hope that it will help attract other companies and organizations to engage in research and development in the region, which is already a major driving force in the global semiconductor industry.”

“The planned development of Taiwan into ‘Silicon Island’ is one of our government’s most important policies,” says Cheng-I Weng, chairman of the National Science Council. “Applied Materials’ commitment to the research and development fund will help to promote more innovative product development activities and to establish a good model for private enterprises to work together with the Taiwanese government. This should enhance the competitiveness of our industry, as well as better lives in our communities.”

“The agreement will allow us to work closely with industry, government and universities to improve the competitiveness of the local high-tech industry, which in return will further enhance Taiwan’s global resources and infrastructure,” adds Chiam Wu, group vice president of Applied Materials, Inc. and general manager of Applied Materials Taiwan.