A major new funding opportunity has opened for researchers working at the cutting edge of semiconductors and quantum technologies.
Through the HTSM Call titled “Heterogeneous development solutions for semiconductors & scaling of quantum technologies”, NWO and Holland High Tech are inviting research consortia to submit ambitious, collaborative proposals that strengthen the Netherlands’ technological leadership.
Strategic investment in key national technologies
Semiconductor and quantum technologies are cornerstones of the Dutch government’s National Technology Strategy, underpinning future advances in computing, communication, security and industrial competitiveness.
To accelerate both fundamental insight and real-world application, NWO and Holland High Tech have jointly committed €11.85m to this call.
The funding is evenly split: half is reserved for semiconductor-focused research, while the remaining budget supports projects dedicated to advancing quantum technologies.
By balancing these two domains, the call aims to reinforce the entire innovation chain – from materials and design to manufacturing and scalability.
Two research tracks with strong industrial relevance
The call is structured around two complementary research areas.
The first centres on heterogeneous integration in semiconductor systems. Researchers are encouraged to explore new design and process technologies that enable the combination of chiplets from different physical domains within a single package.
Advanced 2D and 3D integration, supported by artificial intelligence, plays a central role. AI-driven optimisation, design exploration and testing methods are expected to improve performance, reliability and time-to-market for next-generation chips.
The second research track focuses squarely on quantum technologies. While quantum systems promise revolutionary capabilities in computation, communication and security, they remain far less mature than classical semiconductor technologies.
This call seeks targeted knowledge development to bridge that gap, with emphasis on robust production processes, manufacturability, metrology and the scalable fabrication of quantum systems.
Collaboration and co-funding required
Collaboration sits at the heart of the HTSM Call. Proposals must include at least two co-funders, who together are required to contribute a minimum of 20% of the total project budget.
Contributions may be made in cash or in kind, ensuring strong engagement from industry and other stakeholders alongside academic partners.
Matchmaking event to build strong consortia
To help researchers form competitive consortia, NWO and Holland High Tech will host a matchmaking meeting on 2 March 2026.
The event will provide a platform for participants to share ideas, connect with potential partners and identify missing expertise. Attendees will also receive practical guidance on the application process and approaches to maximising societal and economic impact.
With substantial funding, clear strategic focus and strong encouragement for collaboration, this call represents a significant opportunity to shape the future of semiconductors and quantum technologies in the Netherlands.
