Swedish small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) working with semiconductor technologies now have a significant opportunity to accelerate their innovation. Through the Chips Joint Undertaking (Chips JU), Vinnova is offering funding for SMEs to access newly established European pilot lines for testing, development, and prototyping of advanced semiconductor solutions.
What Is the Opportunity?
Chips JU has established five world‑class pilot lines across Europe, all designed to support cutting-edge development in semiconductor processes, components, and systems. Swedish SMEs can apply for up to SEK 3.5 million per project to use these infrastructures for activities such as:
- Developing new semiconductor process technologies
- Designing or testing new components and materials
- Producing proofs‑of‑concept
- Building early prototypes
The annual budget for the call is SEK 7 million for both 2026 and 2027.
Available Pilot Lines
Applicants may seek funding to access any of the following Chips JU pilot lines:
- NanoIC – Advanced integrated circuit technologies
- FAMES – Materials and systems for next-generation electronics
- APECS – Advanced packaging and heterogeneous integration
- WBG – Wide bandgap semiconductor technologies
- PIXEurope – Photonic integrated circuits1
Who Can Apply?
The call targets Swedish SMEs working in areas such as:
- Semiconductor design
- Production process development
- Component or system development
- Research and innovation within semiconductor technology
To apply, companies must already have approved access from the relevant pilot line, including documentation and timeline.
What Costs Are Funded?
Vinnova funds only innovation advisory and innovation-supporting services provided directly by the pilot line, including:
- Laboratory access
- Testing and experimentation
- Technical support services
Not eligible for funding:
- Salaries
- Equipment or materials
- Travel
- Overheads
- Services from actors other than the pilot line
Key Dates
- 25 February 2026 – Call opens
- 26 March 2026 – Projects may start
- 7 September 2026 – Latest possible project start date
- 29 July 2027 at 14:00 – Final deadline for applications
What to Include in Your Application
Applications must be submitted in Swedish or English and include:
- Approved pilot line access documentation
- Project description (max 10 pages, following Vinnova’s template)
- CV of the project leader
- Budget following Vinnova’s rules
- All required attachments as listed in the call1
Assessment Process
Vinnova evaluates:
- The completeness and eligibility of the application
- The organisation’s financial and operational stability
- Prior approval from the pilot line
Why This Matters
This call represents a major opportunity for Swedish SMEs to gain access to advanced European semiconductor infrastructures—resources typically out of reach for smaller companies. It supports innovation, competitiveness, and Europe’s long-term strategic resilience in semiconductor supply and development.
All details at the Vinnova website: Chips JU: Test och validering av ny halvledarteknik | Vinnova