Competence Centers-Coordination and Support Action

The European semiconductor ecosystem will be strengthened through an effective network of Chips Competence Centres (Chips CCs) supporting the adoption and use of semiconductor technologies, in particular by SMEs, and taking into account the specific needs of the local, regional and/or national ecosystem(s). The coordinated network will facilitate access to pilot lines and the European virtual design platform and knowledge transfer within the Chips CCs. The Coordination and Support Action will ensure the European network of Chips Competence Centres will be embedded in the European semiconductor ecosystem with strong links to other European initiatives, for example, in the area of training.

Proposals should aim at supporting the networking among the Chips Competence Centres. Inparticular, it is expected to establish a communication platform, facilitate dialogue, promotethe objectives of the Centres, and organize outreach events and workshops. The activitiesshould leverage on synergies and complementarity of the centres.The Coordination and Support Action should:

• Support the exchange of best practices among Chips CCs;

• Disseminate the activities of the Network. Maximise visibility and outreach of ChipsCCs, in particular to SMEs, industry and the public sector;

• Promote the services of the Chips CCs, specifically addressing the needs of SMEs;• Attract new users and support the engagement of industry and SMEs in the activities ofthe Chips CCs;

• Educate and assist Chips CCs in technology transfer practices, including IPmanagement, where relevant;• Define and monitor meaningful qualitative and quantitative KPIs for the EuropeanNetwork of Chips Competence Centres and for the Centres;

• Maintain an overview of specific specialisations and competence of the variousCentres;

• Support matchmaking for specific competences;• Facilitate access to services and training offered at national level to interested ChipsCCs and other potential users;

• Support the organisation of community building events for users and Centres sharingsimilar interests;

• Support the connection of Chips CCs to relevant other initiatives, in particular toinitiatives on skills and workforce development;

Act as the first online point of contact for all information related to the Chips CompetenceCentres;