European Commission launches €525 million chip design platform
The European Commission has announced the European Chip Design Platform, backed by €525 million, to support new semiconductor design companies. European firms currently generate less than 1% of global chip design revenue.
The European Commission, the European Union's executive body, has announced the creation of the European Chip Design Platform. Its aim is to help new semiconductor design companies develop in Europe. The initiative has total funding of €525 million and forms part of the EU Chips Act, the legislation intended to strengthen Europe's chip sector.
The platform will give start-ups access to design tools, intellectual property and manufacturing capacity. Grants of up to €16 million are also foreseen.
Why it matters
The move comes at a time when European companies generate less than 1% of global revenue in chip design. Officials say that as Europe tries to expand its role in semiconductor manufacturing, building new factories alone is not enough; local chip design companies are needed as well.
Wider context
The programme is part of a broader EU strategy to reduce dependence on foreign supply chains and strengthen technological sovereignty. At present, production of the most advanced chips is dominated by companies such as Taiwan's TSMC and South Korean manufacturers.
Europe has set a goal of reaching a 20% share of global semiconductor production by 2030, but the source notes that this target will most likely not be met.