€3.63m for semiconductors: Greece’s first decisive step into the global tech race

With a move of strong symbolism and clear strategic depth, the Ministry of Development is opening the door for Greece’s entry into the critical and highly competitive field of semiconductors. Development Minister Takis Theodorikakos signed the decision approving €3.63 million in funding for the creation of Greece’s first Semiconductors Competence Centre, the Hellenic Chips Competence Centre (HCCC).

The project is financed under the “Competitiveness 2021–2027” Operational Programme, marking the starting point for the implementation of Greece’s National Semiconductor Strategy, in a sector that has evolved into a global geopolitical, industrial and technological battleground.

The Hellenic Chips Competence Centre is far from a standalone initiative. It represents a broad national partnership, coordinated by the Hellenic Emerging Technologies Industry Association (HETiA), with the participation of 15 universities and research institutions. Its mission is to function as a hub for research, innovation and skills development, supporting Greek industry through knowledge transfer, access to high-performance infrastructure and specialised workforce training.

At a time when semiconductors form the backbone of the digital economy—from artificial intelligence and automotive manufacturing to defence and telecommunications—Greece is seeking to move beyond the role of a technology consumer and emerge as an active contributor within the European ecosystem.

The initiative is part of a broader strategic framework promoted by the Ministry of Development, which includes Greece’s participation in key European microelectronics initiatives. Last September, during the EU Competitiveness Council in Brussels, Mr Theodorikakos signed Greece’s accession to the EU Member States Alliance for the Chips Act II, reinforcing the country’s presence in Europe’s long-term semiconductor planning.

Commenting on the funding decision, the Minister stressed: “At the core of the new productive model we are implementing to strengthen productivity and competitiveness are new and emerging technologies. With the creation of the first Semiconductor Competence Centre, we are investing in Greek talent—especially young people—and laying the foundations for Greece to secure a meaningful role on the European and international technology map.”

The challenge now lies in swift implementation, strong links with industry and the transformation of expertise into real productive capacity. Yet for the first time, Greece is making a clear and structured entry into the hard core of future technology, signalling ambitions that extend well beyond national borders.

Source: pagenews.gr