(The Center Square) − Louisiana taxpayers will help fund a new $370 million secure microchip facility in Ruston, with the state pledging nearly $37 million in direct support for the project.

Radiance Technologies, an Alabama-based defense contractor, said Monday it will build a 40,000-square-foot research and manufacturing plant. State officials say the project will create 150 direct jobs with an average salary of $85,000, along with an estimated 146 indirect jobs, for a total of nearly 300 positions.

To secure the deal, Louisiana Economic Development is providing $20 million in performance-based grants to the Louisiana Tech University Foundation for facility equipment. Another $17 million will go to Louisiana Tech for research upgrades and training programs in secure chip manufacturing. The money will be tied to project milestones, according to Louisiana Economic Development.

“Louisiana is investing in ourselves – because we know our strengths, and we know what we’re capable of,” Economic Development Secretary Susan B. Bourgeois said.

Construction is expected to begin in spring 2026 and wrap up by summer 2027. The facility will sit north of the Ruston Sports Complex and focus on research, design, and fabrication of secure microchips, which state leaders say are critical to national defense.

Gov. Jeff Landry called the project a generational win.

“This new secure microchip facility not only strengthens our national security, it also positions North Louisiana as a hub for advanced manufacturing,” Landry said.

The expansion builds on Radiance’s existing locations in Shreveport and Baton Rouge and its longstanding partnership with Louisiana Tech. University officials said the project will create opportunities for students and faculty while expanding research capacity.

Ruston Mayor Ronny Walker said the city worked with Louisiana Tech and the university’s foundation to secure land for the facility, calling it “a testament to what can be achieved through strong partnerships.”

While Radiance will invest the bulk of the $370 million price tag, Louisiana’s direct contribution highlights the state’s strategy of using public funds to leverage private-sector growth in defense, technology, and manufacturing.