iqe - huge EU funding announced18 Jan 2019 16:26
"European Commission Recognises Importance of Compound Semiconductors by Unlocking Up To €1.75 Billion for Industry Research and Innovation
18 January 2019
Economy Minister, Ken Skates has welcomed the European Commission’s approval of an innovative plan, spearheaded by Wales that identifies compound semiconductors as an important sector.
The plan will unlock €1.75bn of funding for research activities, will bring in up to €6bn in private investment and will ultimately help bring new technology innovations to market.
The project is the first integrated research, development and innovation IPCEI programme to be approved by the Commission, highlighting the European importance of microelectronics and compound semiconductors.
It is expected to benefit both the Welsh and the wider UK economy by establishing South East Wales as the leading centre of compound semiconductor expertise.
The UK element of the pan-European joint microelectronics research and innovation project was driven by the Welsh Government and involves three Welsh companies: IQE, Newport Wafer Fab and SPTS Technologies (an Orbotech company), along with Manchester based ICS Ltd.....
.......As a result of the ruling IQE, Newport Wafer Fab, SPTS Technologies and ICS Ltd will collaborate with partners across many other countries on the Important Project of Common European Interest (IPCEI) that will focus on first deployment and innovation activities.