Romania opens the call for the European semiconductor project IPCEI AST

The context of the IPCEI AST project in Romania

The Ministry of Economy, Digitalisation, Entrepreneurship and Tourism (MEDAT) is preparing to launch a call for proposals to facilitate the participation of Romanian companies, universities and research centres in the Important Project of Common European Interest (IPCEI) on Advanced Semiconductor Technologies (AST). This initiative is part of a broader European strategy designed to reduce dependence on external suppliers and to develop robust national capabilities in the semiconductor sector, which in the long term translates into a competitive advantage for the Romanian economy.

The semiconductor sector has become vital for every modern economy, as it is the foundation on which essential technologies such as artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things, electric vehicles and medical equipment are built. Romania now has the chance to integrate into European value chains, through access to substantial funding and partnerships at the highest level, including with member states that are far advanced in this field.

Who are the eligible beneficiaries for IPCEI AST?

The call that is about to be launched mainly targets three types of entities operating in the Romanian research and innovation ecosystem:

• Private companies – from start-ups specialising in microelectronics and related technologies to large enterprises producing electronic components and smart equipment;
• Universities and research institutes – academic institutions with departments focused on electronic engineering, nanotechnologies, advanced materials and related fields, capable of developing innovative know-how and prototypes;
• Specialised research and development centres – public or private laboratories that can contribute technically and scientifically to integrated collaborative projects aligned with the specific technical requirements of IPCEI.

Participation will be subject to criteria set at European level, and entities wishing to apply must demonstrate real innovation potential, technical capacity and financial sustainability.

Documents and conditions required to apply

Preparing a complete IPCEI application involves bringing together complex documentation that highlights the technological and economic value of the proposed project. The documents and conditions required include:

• A detailed description of the project – objectives, development phases, expected results and how the semiconductor technology will be integrated into the final processes or products;
• Demonstration of the collaborative nature – clear plans for partnerships with other entities, knowledge transfer and involvement in European networks;
• Financial plan and sustainability – a detailed budget, sources of funding, scaling potential and economic impact in the medium and long term;
• Compliance with state aid rules – IPCEI projects benefit from certain facilitations, but must meet the strict conditions imposed by the European Commission to avoid distorting the market;
• Technical and quality commitment – certificates and standards relevant to the semiconductor industry and advanced technologies.

The impact on the Romanian economy and technology sector

Romania's participation in IPCEI AST can catalyse major investment in research infrastructure, the development of specialised skills and integration into leading European technology chains. In a global context marked by supply chain crises and geopolitics, building local capabilities in semiconductors is a strategic step that will generate positive effects over the long term.

The investment generated by this project will create skilled jobs, increase the country's attractiveness to investors and strengthen Romania's position as an important player in the high-tech industry. Access to cutting-edge knowledge and EU funding provides the framework needed for continuous innovation, which is essential in global competition.

What potential applicants should prepare and what to watch out for

Entities interested in taking part should start preparing their applications now. The following aspects are essential:

• A clear understanding of the eligibility criteria and the objectives of IPCEI – to ensure that the proposed project aligns directly with European and national priorities, particularly in the advanced semiconductor segment;
• Forming a solid consortium – collaboration between universities, research centres and local industry will increase the chances of success and can facilitate access to multidisciplinary expertise;
• Investing in detailed technical and financial documentation – it is advisable to consult specialists in EU funds and taxation to avoid errors that can lead to applications being rejected;
• Monitoring the official communications of the Ministry of Economy and European bodies – the precise rules and deadlines will be published in due course, and failure to comply with them can eliminate applications;
• Long-term planning – IPCEI projects involve multi-year commitments, so sustainability and medium- and long-term impact must be argued rigorously.

Taking part in this call is a unique development opportunity for Romanian enterprises and institutions active in critical technology fields. Rigorous preparation and close cooperation with the authorities will be the key to success in both the application and the implementation process.

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