KDT-JU-2021-3-CSA - A Pan-European chip infrastructure for design innovation

Semiconductors are at the centre of strong geostrategic interests, and at the core of the global technological race. A priority for Europe is to strengthen its design capacity and to lower the barriers to get access to advanced semiconductor technologies. Amongst others, this requires the nurturing and supply of people with the right digital skills, and the provision of routes to prototype and commercialisation. Not only large enterprises, but also startups and academic institutions play a key role and are crucial in the European semiconductor value chain.

Proposals need to lower the entry-barrier for academia, research institutes and very importantly for startups, and SMEs by offering affordable access to a portfolio of industrial-grade design tools, IP blocks, including open-source ones (e.g. RISC-V based), and prototyping technologies. Services offered must include initial advice, training, support, reduced entry costs, prototyping and a clear route to chip manufacture and product supply. Proposal