Chips Act II:

Chips Act II: ERRIN builds on its strong regional dimension

ERRIN has submitted its input to the upcoming Chips Act II, welcoming the strong regional dimension already embedded in the initiative and setting out how it can be turned into concrete impact. With the European Semiconductor Region of Excellence label and its planned network putting regions at the heart of the strategy, ERRIN's input focuses on making sure regional administrations, best placed to align public authorities, industry, academia and civil society around a place-based approach, can deliver on that role.

The input paper focuses on four priorities:

  • The European Semiconductor Region of Excellence label: meaningful label with tangible benefits ensuring easier access to EU funding, including the future European Competitiveness Fund, and a stronger say in coordination.
  • The Semiconductor Regions Investment Plans: Flexible, multi-source investment, with regulation explicitly allowing co-financing that combines regional, national and EU funds.
  • An inclusive Network of Excellence, designed with ESRA and other active regions, and open to regions still working towards the label and not only those who already hold it.
  • A real seat in governance, with regions advising the European Semiconductor Board and sitting on the Chips Joint Undertaking's Public Authorities Board.

ERRIN also calls for cross-regional SME access to pilot lines, continued and open Regional Innovation Valleys, a stronger regional voice in the Demand Forum, and clearer rules distinguishing strategic projects from IPCEIs.

The input feeds into the report on Chips Act II currently under development at the Committee of the Regions.

Read the full document in attachment