GBIP in Germany and Switzerland: Semiconductors

Explore innovation opportunities for semiconductor industry

Innovate UK is calling for innovative UK businesses to apply to its latest Global Business Innovation Programme (GBIP) in Germany and Switzerland.

The programme is aimed at businesses innovating in semiconductors, specifically around the four focus themes:

• electrification
• automotive
• future telecoms
• photonics (including quantum)

In terms of key technologies, Innovate UK is looking for:

• semiconductor design / intellectual property
• compound semiconductors
• advanced packaging
• emerging materials

The programme aims to help businesses to grow and scale on a global stage through building research, development and innovation collaborations and partnerships.

Why Switzerland and Germany?

Semiconductors are essential to modern electronics, including communications, computing, and clean energy. The global semiconductor industry is projected to reach a trillion dollars by 2030, with significant growth in the automotive, data storage, and wireless sectors.

According to the Global Innovation Index, Switzerland has been recognised as the world's most innovative economy for 13 consecutive years. The country excels in high-value semiconductor segments like sensors and power management, supported by a skilled workforce and robust research and manufacturing infrastructure. This strong ecosystem is well-placed to promote major international collaborations.

Germany aims to secure 20% of global semiconductor production for Europe by 2030 as part of the larger 'European Chips Act'. Industry clusters like Silicon Saxony attract SMEs, top manufacturers and research institutions alike. UK-German and UK-Swiss bilateral funding programmes provide strong collaboration opportunities for UK companies.

Why should you apply?

By taking part, you will get a chance to find potential innovation partners, improve your company value proposition, and explore opportunities for doing business in Germany and Switzerland.

You will also get an opportunity to join:

• a preparatory workshop in the UK
• a five-day tailored innovation visit to Switzerland and Germany
• follow-up workshop and support from an Innovate UK Innovation and Growth specialist

Potential applicants can register to join the applicant briefing on Wednesday 19 June 2024 to learn more about the programme.

Find out more about this semiconductors GBIP in Germany and Switzerland.

For more information, Northern Ireland businesses can contact Innovate UK Business Growth Project Manager, Alayne Kinver - Alayne.Kinver@innovateukedge.ukri.org.

First published 18 June 2024