Programme for the Development of Chips and Semiconductor Technologies in Slovenia until 2030

Programme for the Development of Chips and Semiconductor Technologies in Slovenia until 2030 – a foundation for accelerating research and innovation in a key area of the modern economy

In March 2026, the Government of the Republic of Slovenia adopted the national Programme for the Development of Chips and Semiconductor Technologies in Slovenia until 2030. The programme, which was prepared and coordinated within an expert working group led by the Ministry of Digital Transformation (MDP), marks a new chapter and an important milestone in the development of chips and semiconductor technologies in Slovenia. Approximately €160 million will be required for the implementation of the programme and the full launch of activities. Investments in the development of chips and semiconductor technologies have a strong multiplier effect on the economy and increase the country’s sovereignty in this strategic field.

Chips as a strategic product

In recent years, the world has become increasingly aware of the importance of chips. Without them, there is no production of modern devices, no green transition, no digitalization and no advanced economy. Europe is also implementing measures under the European Chips Act to strengthen the sovereignty of countries in this key high-tech area. The adopted Slovenian programme is not only a response to European initiatives, but also a confirmation of Slovenia’s long-standing successful activity in the field of chips and semiconductor technologies, as well as recognition of the country’s excellent knowledge, research and entrepreneurship in this area.

The Faculty of Electrical Engineering of the University of Ljubljana (UL FE) was actively involved in the preparation of the programme together with other experts. The importance of this strategic document and the field itself in Slovenia and Europe is highlighted by Prof. Dr Marko Topič, Dean of UL FE: “Semiconductor technologies, chips and integrated circuits are today the most important strategic technology of modern civilization, as they form the foundation of virtually all advanced systems and devices, without which we cannot imagine the functioning of modern society, the economy and national security. The national programme for chips until 2030 is the right response to strengthening Slovenia’s technological and digital sovereignty. It strengthens competitiveness in specialized segments of application-specific chips and across the entire technological vertical, from design to testing, where Slovenia, with UL FE at the forefront, has a sixty-year tradition and, thanks to Professor Janez Trontelj and the Laboratory of Microelectronics, internationally recognized pioneering achievements in integrated circuits. Among its goals for 2030, the programme highlights accelerated investment in research equipment and a focus on human resources, especially young talents seeking high-tech challenges.”.

Prof. Dr Janez Krč from UL FE explains that the programme defines the goals and directions for the design, prototyping, testing and advanced packaging of application-specific electronic chips and systems on chip for niche applications. “At the same time, it opens the door to the development of new generations of chips, such as photonic and quantum chips. It encourages collaboration between companies, research organizations and universities, which, with appropriate state support and strategic international partnerships, creates an environment for breakthrough innovations at both the national and international levels,” Krč adds.

Competence Centre KC-Čip.si as the first measure of the programme

The Competence Centre for Chips and Semiconductor Technologies KC-Čip.si, which began operating in autumn 2025, represents the first key measure of the programme for achieving long-term goals and strengthening the role of Slovenian knowledge, research and industry in both the national and European context. Through professional training, promotion, access to modern technologies and networking, it creates an environment that accelerates development and innovation in the field. Its coordinator, Prof. Dr Janez Krč from UL FE, emphasizes that “the competence centre is an excellent starting point, but due to its limitations it requires additional key measures and investments, particularly in technological equipment and the implementation of research and development activities. This will enable the programme to fully take off, with visible multiplier effects in the economy.”.

Prof. Dr Gregor Dolinar, Vice-Rector for Research and Development at the University of Ljubljana, points out that since the shock a few years ago, when Europe suddenly became aware of its dependence and vulnerability in the field of semiconductor technologies, the global situation has only worsened. “It is therefore essential to rely on our own knowledge, which means investing in human resources as well as in equipment, research and development. Cooperation among all stakeholders and the rapid transfer of research results into industry are crucial. The Competence Centre KC-Čip.si and the adopted national programme represent an appropriate response to these challenges. At the University of Ljubljana, the leading research institution in Slovenia, we are aware of the responsibility we have taken on. In times of recurring crises, it will be equally important that decision-makers at the national level do not forget their commitments, and above all that they recognize that the modern world would come to a complete standstill without chips.”.