The European Union has officially inaugurated NanoIC, the continent’s largest Chips Act pilot line, signaling a major leap forward in Europe’s semiconductor ambitions. Located at
IMEC in Leuven, Belgium, the facility will serve as a cutting-edge hub for developing next-generation semiconductor technologies essential for AI, autonomous vehicles, healthcare innovations, and 6G mobile networks.
With a total investment of €2.5 billion, NanoIC has secured €700 million from the EU, an equal contribution from national and regional governments, and the remaining funds from industry partners including ASML. The pilot line is the first in Europe to feature Extreme Ultraviolet (EUV) lithography machines, capable of producing chips with technology beyond two nanometers—a significant milestone for the region’s chip-making capabilities.
The launch ceremony was attended by EU Executive Vice-President Henna Virkkunen, Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever, and Flanders’ Minister-President Matthias Diependaele. The facility is designed to allow researchers, start-ups, SMEs, and large companies to test new chip designs, processes, and equipment at a near-industrial scale, bridging the gap between laboratory research and mass production.
Open access for innovation
NanoIC operates on a principle of open access, enabling a broad spectrum of players—from fledgling start-ups to established multinationals—to leverage the facility’s advanced capabilities. While hosted by IMEC in Belgium, the project brings together partners across Europe, including CEA-Leti (France), Fraunhofer (Germany), VTT (Finland), CSSNT (Romania), and Tyndall National Institute (Ireland).
As part of the 'Chips for Europe initiative', NanoIC and other pilot lines are designed to strengthen Europe’s position in the global semiconductor supply chain. By providing state-of-the-art infrastructure and attracting talent, the initiative aims to boost the continent’s industrial competitiveness while maintaining technological sovereignty.
Building Europe’s semiconductor future
NanoIC is one of five pilot lines launched under the Chips Act, alongside FAMES, APECS, WBG, and PIXEurope. Together, these projects represent a combined EU and national investment of €3.7 billion, creating a seamless pipeline from research to industrial application. The opening of NanoIC follows the recent launch of FAMES on 30 January, marking a pivotal step in Europe’s drive for semiconductor self-sufficiency.
Nearly four years after President Ursula von der Leyen announced the European Chips Act, the inauguration of NanoIC underscores Europe’s ongoing commitment to innovation, industry collaboration, and technological leadership. The facility is expected to play a critical role in the upcoming CHIPS Act 2.0 revision, further shaping Europe’s semiconductor landscape for the decade ahead. Photo by Wouterhagens, Wikimedia commons.