Netherlands introduces brand new center to boost innovation in semiconductors

The ChipNL Competence Centre has been opened, an initiative to strengthen the Dutch semiconductor industry. Established under the EU Chips Act, this center focuses on stimulating innovation within the Dutch semiconductor ecosystem. The European Commission and the Ministry of Economic Affairs are funding a budget of 12 million euros for the next four years. The project aims to promote innovation, collaboration, and talent development to strengthen the international competitive position of the Netherlands and Europe in semiconductor technology.

Startups to scaleups: connecting the entire value chain

The center is a collaboration between Brainport Development, ChipTech Twente, High Tech NL, TNO, JePPIX, imec, and the regional development companies OostNL, BOM, and InnovationQuarter. The center supports and connects different parts of the value chain with Dutch SMEs, startups, and scaleups in the semiconductor sector and related markets. The focus is on semiconductor manufacturing equipment, chip design, (integrated) photonics, quantum technology, and heterogeneous integration.

Testing new technologies

The ChipNL Competence Centre helps SMEs, startups and multinationals use European pilot lines. This allows them to test and validate new technologies in an advanced environment. An innovative design platform is also being developed within the EU Chips Act to support the industry in designing customized semiconductor solutions. The center provides support and shares knowledge in this regard. TNO, imec, and JePPIX are taking the lead on these activities.

It should further position the Netherlands as a hub for innovation in semiconductors while contributing to broader European goals.

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