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For Immediate Release:
April 25, 2008

Success Is Idaho's Business

by Senator Larry Craig

It's no secret that Idaho is a great place to do business, particularly for those in the high-tech industry. Our State has been recognized time and again for our educated, innovative, and industrious people and our business-friendly economy. And after this past week, the global high-tech community is well aware of Idaho's high-tech capabilities as well.

In case you didn't know, Boise-based firm American Semiconductor, Inc was named The Boeing Company's 2007 "Technology" Supplier of the Year, one of eleven total companies honored this past week from a field of more than 250 of the world's foremost Boeing suppliers, all of which were selected from a base of over 30,000 suppliers.

This prestigious honor caps an Idaho success story that I was fortunate enough to see close up. Several years ago I first came in contact with American Semiconductor when they were just a handful of people who had a vision to develop world-class technology that would create electronics capable of withstanding the rigors of space for the military. However, because of their small size and lack of resources, they were unable to fully research and develop this technology.

Facing these daunting obstacles, American Semiconductor approached me and asked if I, as a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, would help them obtain federal support for their research through a congressionally-directed spending initiative, or "earmark." Recognizing the national value of their research and the opportunity for a small business in Idaho to develop cutting-edge technology, I began to work with my colleagues in the Senate to ensure this project was funded. Since American Semiconductor first received federal funding several years ago, Congressman Simpson and Senator Crapo and I have continued to work as a delegation to help foster American Semiconductor's research, ultimately helping them to reach the world-class recognition they deserved.

American Semiconductor's achievement is also an example of the positive role that federal spending can play in supporting worthy initiatives--projects that benefit local economies while creating real investment returns for our nation as a whole.

The federal government has a long history of working with companies and higher education institutions to promote research and development, putting America at the forefront of innovation and education. Congressionally directed initiatives have led to enhanced protective gear for our soldiers in battle, medical advances that will help cure devastating diseases, improved techniques for environmental conservation, and technologies that have dramatically improved our quality of life. Many of these developments were home-grown right here in Idaho.

I am proud of the delegation's record in supporting worthwhile Idaho initiatives like those proposed by American Semiconductor. They have strengthened Idaho's economy, enhanced the Gem State's reputation, and benefited the nation as a whole. And Idaho should take pride that its citizens continue to set a standard of excellence recognized around the world.

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