Ruston, La (10/8/2025) – The Ruston Board of Aldermen unanimously approved donating city-owned land for a $370 million microchip production facility, marking a major milestone in a project expected to transform North Louisiana’s technology landscape.
The land, located across from Ruston Regional Specialty Hospital, will be donated to Bulldog Microchips, a collaboration between Radiance Technologies and Louisiana Tech University. Once completed, the 40,000-square-foot secure manufacturing facility is projected to create 150 direct jobs and 146 indirect jobs, according to Louisiana Economic Development (LED).
Construction is scheduled to begin next year, with the facility expected to open by summer 2027. Louisiana Tech officials said the project will also create new internship and research opportunities for students in advanced manufacturing, cybersecurity, and microelectronics.
“This project continues the strong partnership between the City of Ruston, Louisiana Tech, and industry innovators,” said Mayor Ronny Walker. “We’re already in talks with more tech companies exploring similar investments in Ruston.”
A Landmark Collaboration
The October land donation follows an August announcement by Radiance Technologies, Louisiana Economic Development, and Louisiana Tech University confirming plans for a secure microchip packaging facility that will advance U.S. national security and innovation.
At the August event, Governor Jeff Landry described the project as a “landmark investment” that strengthens both national defense and North Louisiana’s manufacturing economy. “This facility positions North Louisiana as a hub for advanced manufacturing, bringing jobs and new expertise to our communities,” Landry said.
Radiance Technologies CEO Bill Bailey called the partnership “a win-win opportunity that benefits Radiance, Louisiana Tech, Ruston, and the entire state.” Louisiana Tech President Jim Henderson added that the project will enhance research, expand experiential learning, and strengthen the region’s skilled workforce.
The Louisiana Tech University Foundation, which helped facilitate the partnership, will oversee development of the site. The facility will be part of the city’s Secure Business Park, joining a growing cluster of technology-driven employers.
Economic and Educational Impact
The microchip facility is expected to play a central role in North Louisiana’s emerging advanced manufacturing corridor, with a combined annual payroll of $12.7 million by FY 2032. LED will support the project and collaborate with the university on a multi-institutional workforce development initiative designed to train the next generation of engineers and technicians.
Construction Timeline
Groundbreaking for the Ruston site is scheduled for spring 2026, with completion anticipated by summer 2027.
Previous Article: State: Dr. Martin Lemelle Appointed as Next President of Grambling State University
