In a new video on the IPCEI ME/CT YouTube channel, Angelika Iberl, Senior Director for Industrial Policy at Infineon Technologies, dives into the strategic importance of the IPCEI ME/CT (Important Project of Common European Interest on Microelectronics and Communication Technologies) in enhancing Europe’s technological sovereignty and fostering innovation across the continent.

Angelika, who leads the Transformers Group within the IPCEI framework, explains how the initiative unites stakeholders from across Europe’s microelectronics value chain to drive innovation, increase production capabilities, and create new opportunities for collaboration. She underscores the IPCEI’s unique role in connecting industries, governments, and research institutions to advance both research and development (R&D) and first industrial deployment (FID).

One of the key highlights of the video is how IPCEI ME/CT is positioned to ensure Europe’s strategic autonomy in critical sectors like semiconductors, IoT, and communications. By boosting Europe’s ability to innovate and compete globally, the initiative supports decarbonization and digitalization efforts, all while creating high-quality jobs in the semiconductor industry. Angelika emphasizes that this project is vital for European competitiveness on the global stage, especially as new challenges in technology and geopolitics emerge.

Angelika also reflects on the success of the first IPCEI on microelectronics, which helped shift Europe's mindset and created a stronger sense of identity within the semiconductor ecosystem. However, she notes that the previous IPCEI was limited in scale and scope, whereas the current IPCEI ME/CT involves more partners and a broader range of member states. This expanded collaboration promises even greater technological breakthroughs, both expected and unexpected, as new ideas and partnerships develop throughout the project’s execution.

The video outlines the IPCEI’s governance structure, designed to ensure transparency and support for all participants. Angelika explains that while the technological innovations expected from IPCEI projects are clearly defined, the initiative also leaves room for unplanned advancements, fostering an environment of high-risk, high-reward projects that could bring Europe unexpected benefits.

By addressing Europe’s long-term strategic needs and supporting cutting-edge manufacturing technologies, the IPCEI ME/CT is seen as a critical component in ensuring Europe’s technological sovereignty and boosting its capacity to lead in microelectronics and communication technologies.

Watch the full video to gain deeper insights into how IPCEI ME/CT is shaping the future of Europe’s tech landscape and driving collaboration across the continent.