Strengthening the European semiconductor industry

Siemens is the first software provider to sign a strategic framework agreement with the "European Chips Joint Undertaking". The aim of the agreement is to strengthen the European semiconductor industry and promote cooperation between the EU, the member states and the private sector within the framework of the European Chips Design Platform (EuroCDP).

Specifically, companies that are accepted into the Chips-JU program receive access to Siemens' EDA software at predetermined prices and conditions.

"This agreement significantly lowers the barriers for smaller companies, start-ups and research organizations to access world-class design, verification and manufacturing software - the same powerful tools used by industry giants. This creates a more level playing field for innovation within the European semiconductor ecosystem," said Jean-Marie Saint Paul, Senior Vice President, EDA Global Sales at Siemens EDA, Siemens Digital Industries Software. "By being the first software provider to establish this framework, we are underlining Siemens' claim to technological leadership in Europe and positioning ourselves as a key player in shaping the future of microelectronics from and in Europe."

"helps start-ups and SMEs to develop into profitable fabless companies."

The Chips Joint Undertaking also sees the agreement as an important step. "The agreement with Siemens is an important driver for our design platform," said Jari Kinaret, Executive Director of the Chips Joint Undertaking. "The design platform is an essential part of the capacity building under the Chips Act and helps European start-ups and SMEs to develop into profitable fabless companies."

This results in several concrete advantages for the participants of the EuroCDP: Innovation cycles should be accelerated and development costs reduced. In addition, companies can focus more on design and innovation instead of lengthy procurement processes. There is also access to digital twins and AI-supported design tools. The improved predictability of costs, particularly in the research and development budget, is also one of the effects mentioned.

In connection with the cooperation, Siemens refers to the objectives of the European Chips Act, in particular the strengthening of Europe's technological sovereignty and competitiveness through access to central development tools for next-generation semiconductor solutions.

Siemens Digital Industries Software says it supports companies of all sizes in their digital transformation via the Siemens Xcelerator platform. With the help of software, hardware and services as well as the concept of the digital twin, design, development and manufacturing processes are to be optimized - with the aim of transforming ideas into sustainable products, from chips to complete systems.