Significant new funding opportunities have opened up for researchers working at the cutting edge of semiconductor and quantum technology.
Through the HTSM call entitled “Heterogeneous Development Solutions for Semiconductors and Scaling Quantum Technologies”, NWO and Netherlands High-Tech are inviting research consortia to submit ambitious and collaborative proposals that strengthen the Netherlands’ technological leadership.
Strategic investments in key national technologies
Semiconductor and quantum technologies are the cornerstone of the Dutch government’s national technology strategy, underpinning future advances in computing, communications, security and industrial competitiveness.
To accelerate both fundamental insights and real-world applications, NWO and Dutch High Tech have jointly contributed €11.85 million to this call.
Funds will be divided equally. Half of the budget will be set aside for research focused on semiconductors, while the remaining budget will support projects dedicated to advancing quantum technology.
By balancing these two areas, this call aims to strengthen the entire innovation chain, from materials and design to manufacturing and scalability.
Two research tracks with high industry relevance
This call is structured around two complementary research areas.
The first focuses on heterogeneous integration in semiconductor systems. Researchers are encouraged to explore new design and process techniques that enable the combination of chiplets from different physical domains within a single package.
Advanced 2D and 3D integration supported by artificial intelligence will play a central role. AI-driven optimization, design exploration, and testing methods are expected to improve the performance, reliability, and time to market of next-generation chips.
The second research track focuses directly on quantum technologies. Quantum systems promise innovative capabilities in computation, communications, and security, but they still remain far less mature than classical semiconductor technologies.
This call calls for targeted knowledge development to close the gap, with an emphasis on robust production processes, manufacturability, metrology, and scalable manufacturing of quantum systems.
Cooperation and joint funding required
Collaboration is at the heart of HTSM calls. Proposals must include at least two co-investors, who must collectively contribute at least 20% of the total project budget.
Donations can be made in cash or in kind, ensuring strong engagement from industry and other stakeholders along with academic partners.
Matching events to build strong consortiums
To support the formation of competitive consortiums of researchers, NWO and Dutch High Tech will host a matching conference on March 2, 2026.
This event provides a platform for participants to share ideas, connect with potential partners and identify missing expertise. Participants will also receive practical guidance on the application process and approaches to maximize social and economic impact.
With significant funding, a clear strategic focus and strong encouragement for cooperation, this call represents an important opportunity to shape the future of semiconductor and quantum technology in the Netherlands.
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