ChipTech in Twente
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Chip technology
Twente has grown into a national hotspot for chip design, integrated photonics and heterogeneous systems. The region ranks second in the Netherlands as a supplier to the value chain of high tech machine builders such as ASML. In this compact, dynamic ecosystem, businesses, educational institutions and researchers work together on the next generation of chips: faster, more energy efficient and more reliable. Twente plays a central role in national and European chip strategies, including the Microchip Talent Reinforcement Plan (Beethoven) and the European Chips Act.
Its strength lies in the combination of advanced research at institutes such as MESA+, strong design expertise in analogue, RF and mixed signal technologies, photonics pioneers, a growing network of microtechnology and nanotechnology businesses, and unique facilities for prototyping and pilot production. Alongside its established semiconductor expertise, Twente has developed a unique ecosystem for integrated photonics. From design to packaging, every stage is within walking distance.
With the arrival of New Origin, the independent silicon nitride photonics foundry in Enschede, Twente is strengthening its position as a European manufacturing hub for the photonics industry. This accelerates the commercial application of research, attracts investment and creates new opportunities for businesses, talent and partners who want to help build tomorrow’s chip industry. It also contributes to Europe’s ambition to reduce its dependence on other regions of the world.
Why Twente excels in chip design, photonics and heterogeneous integration
Twente has a strong knowledge base in microelectronics, optics, nanotechnology, microfluidics and systems engineering. Research institutes such as MESA+, research groups such as Integrated Circuit Design, and innovation facilities such as the High Tech Factory form a powerful combination. Together with chip design companies such as Bruco IC, Cyient, QBayLogic and Chain-IC, photonics companies including LioniX International, PHIX Photonics Assembly and New Origin, microfluidics specialist Micronit and quantum technology company QuiX Quantum, they form a value chain that is unique in the Netherlands. This makes Twente a natural place to take the next steps in heterogeneous integration.
This value chain directly supports national priorities for greater autonomy in chip design and manufacturing. Programmes driving this include the Twente Microchip Talent Reinforcement Plan (Beethoven), the National Technology Strategy and European initiatives such as the Chips Joint Undertaking and the IPCEI on Advanced Semiconductor Technologies.
From idea to product with facilities and partners in Twente
Twente offers one of the most complete pathways from idea to prototype and production. The MESA+ NanoLab provides 1,250 m² of cleanroom space. The High Tech Factory supports businesses from prototyping through to small batch production. Companies such as PHIX Photonics Assembly provide packaging and assembly for photonic systems. Startups and scaleups grow with support from Novel-T, Kennispark Twente and a range of investment programmes from Oost NL.
These close connections make Twente an attractive place for researchers, designers, entrepreneurs and students who want to work on the chip systems of the future.
Chip technology - News and stories from Twente
Our regional and national contribution to the chip industry
Twente is taking focused action to strengthen the Dutch and European chip sector. Through programmes and investments from Twente Board and European, national and regional partners, we’re advancing innovation, developing talent and strengthening manufacturing capabilities.
Key programmes & projects >
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Ambition plan ChipTech Twente 2035
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National Microchip Talent Reinforcement Plan (Beethoven)
Twente as keyregio for design, photonica en heterogene systems
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MESA+ Nanolab & High Tech Factory
Upgrade and expansion
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New Origin
New photonic SIN-based foundry in Enschede
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Joint Innovation Centers TNO - Universiteit Twente
Realisation of Joint Innovation Centres on integrated photonics and lab-on-a-chip.
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ChipNL Competence Center
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Knowledge commercialisation and growth programmes
Novel-T, Universiteit Twente, Saxion Hogeschool
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Research and innovation programmes
NextGen Hightech, Polaris en PIX Europe
Discover the ChipTech-ecosystem in Twente
Research and Facilities
Startups & innovation
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Novel-T – incubator and accelerator support
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Kennispark Twente – businesses & Innovation campus
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OostNL - business development, investments, internationalisation
Business & Industry
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Phix Photonics Assembly - packaging & assemblage
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LioniX International - Photonics platforms
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Micronit - lab-on-a-chip
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Quix Quantum - photonic quantum computing
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New Origin - Photonics foundry
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Bruco IC - Chip design
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Monolithic Power Systems - power electronics ICs
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Bosch, MEMS chip design
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Chain IC - RF & mixed signal
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DEMCON - engineering, system integration
Talent & Education
FAQ ChipTech Twente
What is ChipTech in Twente?
The ecosystem for chip design, integrated photonics, microtechnology and high tech machine building. Twente brings education, research and business together in one cluster that supports national and European chip ambitions.
Why is Twente strong in chip technology?
Thanks to the combination of MESA+, strong design expertise, a growing industry and unique manufacturing facilities such as the High Tech Factory and New Origin.
Which companies work in chip technology?
Design: Bruco IC, Monolithic Power Systems, Chain IC, QBayLogic and Cyient. Photonics: LioniX International, PHIX Photonics Assembly, New Origin, Brilliance RGB and Aluvia Photonics. Microfluidics: QuiX Quantum, alongside dozens of suppliers such as VDL ETG, Demcon, Tecnotion and NTS Norma.
What courses can I take?
Study pathways are available through ROC van Twente (electrical engineering), Saxion University of Applied Sciences (engineering) and the University of Twente (electrical engineering, nanotechnology, photonics and IC design). Explore the full range at ohchips.nl
Where can I find chip technology jobs and placements?
Through Twente.com/jobportal and the University of Twente and Saxion portals.
What are heterogeneous systems?
Systems that combine microelectronics, photonics and sometimes microfluidics. Twente is developing a national research and integration programme in this field.
What is New Origin?
The new independent silicon nitride photonics foundry in Enschede, enabling the transition to manufacturing and scaling up.
Which facilities can I use as a researcher or business?
New Origin, the MESA+ NanoLab, the High Tech Factory, UT laboratories, PHIX packaging services, Novel-T support and the Semicon Learning Centers.
How does Twente fit into the European Chips Act?
Twente strengthens European autonomy in photonics, design and heterogeneous systems and participates in Dutch consortia within the Chips Joint Undertaking.