imec leads european labs with billion-dollar investment under european chips act

2024-05-21 semicon

European research labs, led by imec, will receive €2.5 billion to develop next-generation semiconductor technologies, strengthening Europe’s chip sector and promoting economic growth.

A Major Boost for Europe’s Semiconductor Industry

The European Chips Act, announced in 2023, aims to increase Europe’s global semiconductor market share to 20% by 2030. This initiative addresses the critical need for local chip production, which became evident during the COVID-19 pandemic when global supply chains were severely disrupted. The €2.5 billion funding will enable Belgium’s imec, a leading research hub based in Leuven, to spearhead this ambitious endeavor by developing advanced computer chips.

Role of imec in Semiconductor Innovation

Imec plays a pivotal role in bridging the gap between academic research and industrial applications. The organization is well-regarded for its expertise in nanoelectronics and digital technologies. With this substantial investment, imec plans to build a new ‘clean room’ for precision work with chips at the nanoscale. Additionally, the establishment of a NanoIC pilot line will facilitate the development of sub-2 nanometre chips, positioning Europe at the forefront of semiconductor innovation.

Collaborative Efforts and Industry Impact

The funding will not only support imec but also involve collaborations with other leading European research institutions such as CEA-Leti in France, Fraunhofer in Germany, VTT in Finland, CSSNT in Romania, and the Tyndall Institute in Ireland. This joint effort will ensure that the latest semiconductor technologies are accessible to European industries, academia, and start-ups. The diverse applications of these chips span across automotive, telecommunications, healthcare, and other sectors, enhancing Europe’s technological capabilities and economic resilience.

Strategic Investments and Future Prospects

The investment is supported by multiple sources, including EU programs, the Flemish government, and industry giants like ASML. This collaborative funding model strengthens the European chip ecosystem and accelerates innovation. The goal is not just to catch up with global competitors but to lead in the development of next-generation technologies. Companies such as Bosch, Infineon, and NXP are also investing heavily in new chip factories, further solidifying Europe’s position in the semiconductor market.

Imec.xpand’s Role in Global Venture Capital

Imec.xpand, the venture capital arm of imec, has launched a €300 million fund to accelerate semiconductor and nanotechnology innovations. This fund aims to invest in startups that are poised to disrupt global markets, focusing on revolutionary technologies like artificial intelligence, machine learning, augmented reality/virtual reality, and photonics. Since its inception in 2017, imec.xpand has invested in 23 companies, raising nearly €1.5 billion in financing and contributing to the growth of two unicorns.

Conclusion

The European Chips Act and the significant investments led by imec mark a transformative period for Europe’s semiconductor industry. By fostering innovation and collaboration, Europe aims to not only secure its place in the global market but also drive economic growth and technological advancement. The next decade will be crucial as these initiatives unfold, potentially reshaping the landscape of the global semiconductor industry.

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imec european chips act