EU Unveils Cutting-Edge €2.5bn NanoIC Semiconductor Plant

Europe’s NanoIC Facility Marks a Milestone in Semiconductor Manufacturing

Europe has taken a groundbreaking step towards securing its position in the global chip race with the inauguration of NanoIC, the largest pilot line established under the European Chips Act.

Located at IMEC in Leuven, this state-of-the-art €2.5bn facility is poised to revolutionize semiconductor manufacturing in Europe by facilitating the development of chips beyond the two-nanometre node and expediting the transition from research to industrial-scale production.

Empowering Europe’s Chip Ambitions

The launch of NanoIC signifies a substantial public-private investment in European semiconductor manufacturing. Funding totaling €700m from the EU, an additional €700m from national and regional governments, and contributions from industry partners, including ASML, underscore the strategic importance of this initiative.

With a primary focus on cutting-edge chip technologies essential for artificial intelligence, autonomous vehicles, advanced healthcare systems, and future 6G mobile networks, NanoIC is set to propel Europe’s chip sector to new heights.

Bridging the Gap from Research to Production

NanoIC is designed to address the longstanding disparity between laboratory research and large-scale manufacturing. By providing a platform for companies and researchers to test new chip designs, manufacturing processes, and equipment on an almost industrial scale, NanoIC streamlines the transition from innovation to mass production.

This ‘lab to fab’ approach aligns with the Chips for Europe initiative, which aims to enhance Europe’s position in the global semiconductor supply chain.

Advancing Semiconductor Technology with EUV Lithography

Notably, NanoIC is the first facility in Europe to utilize Extreme Ultraviolet (EUV) lithography technology, enabling chip design and fabrication beyond the two-nanometre threshold. This cutting-edge technology places European semiconductor manufacturing capabilities at the forefront of global innovation.

Part of a Comprehensive Chips Act Ecosystem

As one of five pilot lines supported by the Chips Act, NanoIC, along with FAMES, APECS, WBG, and PIXEurope, represents a combined EU and national investment of €3.7bn. These initiatives play a pivotal role in translating Europe’s research excellence into industrial prowess.

Promoting Collaboration and Innovation

Operating on an open-access model, NanoIC, hosted by IMEC, welcomes start-ups, SMEs, researchers, and large corporations to utilize its facilities, fostering innovation and collaboration across the semiconductor ecosystem. By partnering with leading research organizations, NanoIC aims to enhance competitiveness, attract global talent, and fortify Europe’s semiconductor sovereignty for years to come.