North Brabant and industry partners are investing more than €4M into a coalition for circular chip production.

Contentlockr

The province of North Brabant, in collaboration with the business community, has announced an investment of just over €4M in the chip sector.

The funding is part of the Circular Semiconductor Innovation Coalition (ICCS), which aims to support companies in adapting future-proof production methods. The province will contribute €2M to support the transition to circular production.

Through the ICCS, companies, knowledge institutions, and intermediaries will work together to improve access to raw materials, reduce dependence on foreign suppliers, and design products that can be reused or recycled.

Martijn van Gruijthuijsen, deputy for Economy, Knowledge and Talent Development in the province of North Brabant, says, “With this coalition, we’re taking a significant step toward a future-proof economy. By working circularly in a sector of great strategic importance, we strengthen our innovative strength and independence.”

Advancing circular methods in chip production

The ICCS will coordinate projects that focus on material management, extending product lifespans, and reusing components. These efforts aim to reduce pressure on raw material supply chains and give companies more stability during market shifts.

Brainport Industries, ImpactX, and the Brabant Development Agency (BOM) are the initiators. They are joined by companies including ASML, VDL ETG, Prodrive Technologies, Neways, KMWE, ERIKS, HQ Pack, Meilink, and Aalberts Advanced Mechatronics.

Knowledge partners such as TNO, TU/e, Eindhoven Engine, and Fontys will provide research and expertise.

The province expects the move to generate more work opportunities in technical and service functions. Circular production is also expected to lower production costs over time, which can lead to lower prices for end users and reduced environmental strain.

The coalition is already planning several projects. These include a centre for analysis and repair of machine parts, a digital tool that shows which components can be reused, and support tools that help companies adopt circular methods. 

The first project results are planned for 2026.