Deadline: 30-Apr-2026
The European Commission is accepting applications to strengthen international cooperation, policy alignment, and research in the semiconductor sector. The initiative funds dialogue-based activities, research, and stakeholder engagement, supporting projects from EU-based legal entities, civil society, research centers, and private companies. Funding covers up to 90% of eligible costs with a total budget of EUR 975,000 for projects lasting 12–24 months.
Overview
The European Commission has launched a funding call to enhance international cooperation, intelligence sharing, and policy alignment in the semiconductor sector. The program focuses on building coordination and trust among EU stakeholders and international partners through structured and flexible engagement mechanisms.
Key components include dialogue-based activities and research initiatives that support evidence-based policymaking and strengthen global semiconductor networks.
Objectives
This initiative aims to:
- Facilitate informal consultations and dialogues with global partners via neutral intermediaries such as civil society organisations
- Conduct joint research, mapping, and analytical studies to better understand semiconductor value chains and market actors
- Promote knowledge exchange and best practice dissemination across the sector
- Strengthen EU and international policy alignment and cooperation
Eligible Activities
Funded activities may include:
- Conferences, seminars, webinars, and stakeholder meetings
- Research initiatives and mapping of semiconductor ecosystems
- Networking and exchange of best practices
- Media engagement, report drafting, and awareness campaigns
- Tabletop exercises and scenario planning
Funding Details
- Total available budget: EUR 975,000
- EU co-financing: Up to 90% of eligible costs
- Project duration: 12–24 months (extension possible with justification)
- Number of projects expected: 1 (lower budget proposals may also be considered)
Who is Eligible?
Eligible applicants must be legal entities established in EU Member States, including overseas countries and territories. Eligible participants include:
- Civil society organisations
- Private companies
- Public bodies
- Educational institutions, think tanks, and research centres
- Affiliated entities with established legal or capital links to applicants
Additional eligibility criteria:
- Natural persons are not eligible
- International organisations may participate without country restrictions
- Entities without legal personality may participate if they can assume legal obligations and provide financial guarantees
How to Apply
- Confirm eligibility: Ensure your organization meets legal entity requirements and sector relevance
- Develop proposal: Include a detailed description of planned dialogue, research, or stakeholder engagement activities
- Prepare budget: Ensure co-financing aligns with EU funding rules (up to 90%)
- Submit application: Follow European Commission submission guidelines and deadlines
- Implement project: Conduct planned activities, produce deliverables, and report outcomes
Why It Matters
- Enhances international collaboration and trust in the semiconductor sector
- Supports evidence-based policymaking through research and mapping of value chains
- Promotes knowledge sharing and adoption of best practices across EU and global stakeholders
- Strengthens EU’s strategic position in semiconductor innovation and supply chain resilience
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying as a natural person
- Failing to provide adequate legal or financial guarantees if the entity lacks legal personality
- Omitting clear plans for dialogue-based activities or research outputs
- Excluding eligible partners such as affiliated entities or international organizations
- Miscalculating the EU co-financing percentage or project budget
FAQ
1. Who can apply for this funding?
Legal entities established in EU Member States, including civil society organisations, private companies, public bodies, educational institutions, and research centers.
2. Are natural persons eligible?
No, individual applicants cannot apply.
3. What activities are funded?
Conferences, webinars, stakeholder meetings, research, mapping exercises, reports, awareness campaigns, and networking initiatives.
4. What is the funding amount available?
EUR 975,000 total, with EU co-financing up to 90% of eligible costs.
5. How long can projects last?
Projects can run 12–24 months, with possible extensions if justified.
6. Can international organizations participate?
Yes, there are no restrictions on country eligibility for international organizations.
7. Can affiliated entities be involved?
Yes, entities with legal or capital links to applicants may participate in the project.
Conclusion
This European Commission initiative supports strategic international cooperation and research in the semiconductor sector, fostering policy alignment, dialogue, and knowledge sharing among EU stakeholders and global partners. By funding structured yet flexible projects, the program strengthens EU leadership and innovation in a critical global industry.
For more information, visit European Commission.