Help Build Tomorrow's Semiconductor Innovators Today!

My name is Joey Lopez, and I’m a Graduate Student at Purdue University studying Electrical Engineering. Growing up in Northwest Indiana, the semiconductor industry wasn’t even on my radar. Like many students in the region, I had limited exposure to high-tech industries and the life-changing opportunities they could offer. It wasn’t until my time at Purdue University that I discovered the critical role semiconductors play in modern technology—and how vital it is to cultivate a new generation of innovators in this field.

Over the past year, I’ve watched something incredible unfold: through my co-founding of the Semiconductor Student Alliance (SSA) - Purdue Chapter, I’ve seen students from different disciplines come together, learn about the semiconductor industry, and gain life-changing opportunities. From a study-abroad trip to Belgium to attending the CHIPS Summit in Washington D.C., this journey has inspired me to pass these experiences on to others.

UPDATED:

We have officially launched a national nonprofit, the Semiconductor Student Alliance Co., so that students across the country can access the same enriching connections, mentorship, and educational resources I’ve been fortunate to experience. These funds have helped me cover the essential startup costs required to establish it, such as incorporation fees, website management, and filing for 501(c)(3) status [Which we have just received!]. The Alliance is designed to help students unlock their potential, connect with industry professionals, and contribute to America’s leadership in semiconductor innovation. By leveraging innovative technologies, I’m committed to fostering a stronger, more inclusive community—one that brings people together, even in an increasingly divided world.

As a graduate student, however, I have very limited financial resources. I’ve already paid for some essential startup expenses out-of-pocket, and I’m reaching out for your support to cover these initial costs so I can focus on building this nonprofit for the good of future innovators.

Here's a breakdown of what our team has covered:

$1,000 for Startup Costs

Here’s the breakdown of what our team needs to cover in the future:

$5,000 / Chapter Development

$3,000 / Pilot Projects

$2,000 for Emergency Fund

Any amount raised above this goal will go directly into strengthening the nonprofit—covering compliance fees, outreach travel, marketing materials, bookkeeping software, and any unexpected startup expenses that arise.

By contributing, you’re not just helping me pay a few bills. You’re investing in a future where students—regardless of background—can access the training, networks, and opportunities necessary to thrive in the semiconductor field. Your generosity will empower them to grow academically, professionally, and personally, ultimately strengthening America’s capacity for innovation.

Thank you for reading, sharing, and considering a donation. Together, we can lay a strong foundation for this mission and ensure that every dollar you contribute sparks growth, knowledge, and opportunity for the next generation of semiconductor leaders.

----------------------

Semiconductor Student Alliance Co.'s Statement of Purpose:

The Semiconductor Student Alliance Co. is organized exclusively for charitable, educational, and scientific purposes within the meaning of Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.

The Creating Helpful Incentives to Produce Semiconductors and Science Act of 2022, authored by Indiana’s Senior Senator Todd Young, marks a pivotal step in strengthening the United States' semiconductor industry. This $52.7 billion federal investment includes $13.2 billion for research, development, and workforce growth, creating unprecedented opportunities for innovation and collaboration.

The Semiconductor Student Alliance Co. is dedicated to empowering students to reach their full potential academically, personally, and professionally within the semiconductor field. Having founded chapters at leading institutions, including Purdue University, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, and University of Michigan, the Alliance is actively working to expand its presence nationwide. By establishing additional chapters at key universities and cultivating vibrant local networks, the Alliance aims to position Indiana as the headquarters of its national effort to advance the United States’ global semiconductor leadership.

As a nonprofit organization, the Semiconductor Student Alliance Co. will foster a national network of semiconductor professionals to advise, mentor, and support the next generation of innovators. Through partnerships with academia, industry, and government, the Alliance will secure federal and private funding, cultivate alumni and mentorship networks, and equip local chapters with necessary resources to build thriving, innovative communities. In addition to logistical support, the Semiconductor Student Alliance Co. will champion advancing technology literacy, fostering community engagement, and promoting educational equity.

The Semiconductor Student Alliance Co. is committed to spreading awareness of semiconductor educational opportunities, forging industrial partnerships, and offering research experiences. By doing so, the Alliance will help secure the United States' economic and national security, cultivate an innovative semiconductor ecosystem, and build a sense of community in an increasingly divided world.

Upon dissolution of the organization, all remaining assets will be distributed exclusively to organizations that are exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code and organized for charitable, educational, or scientific purposes.