The CNF maintains a collection of equipment and expertise which they make available to researchers at Cornell and from around the U.S. to fabricate very small structures. (They define ``very small" as a structure with critical dimensions less than 100 nm.) Much of the work of the CNF involves using technology developed by and for the semiconductor industry for other purposes -- such as developing very small mechanical devices. They particularly encourage research on topics not usually associated with nanotechnology.
Getting started with the CNF requires the submission of a two-page proposal as well as some training. See their webpage for more information. The CNF is now located in the new Duffield Hall(C6).