Semiconductor-based Quantum Pilot Line ‘SPINS’ launched with EU support

A look inside imec's 300mm cleanroom. (Photo: Imec)

IMEC-SPINS. (Image source: Imec)

On April 2, 2026, SPINS (Semiconductor Pilot line for Industrial Quantum NanoSystems) was inaugurated, one of six European quantum pilot lines. The consortium coordinated by imec brings together 25 European research institutions, industry partners, and academic research groups to strengthen Europe's leadership and sovereignty in this strategically important field. The €50 million SPINS pilot project is made possible through co-financing from the European Union's "Chips Joint Undertaking" (Chips JU) as well as national and regional authorities of the participating member states.

Quantum computing has developed into a highly strategic area with rapidly increasing economic and societal importance. Applications range from breakthroughs in drug research and materials science to extremely secure communication and next-generation navigation systems.

However, there is still a gap between current quantum research and the manufacturing of quantum processors that enable significant quantum applications. Scaling the number of stable qubits (up to one billion) is the key to building reliable and fault-tolerant quantum computers.

Considering the technological complexity, which includes cryogenic operation, high-precision control electronics, and highly specialized manufacturing processes, and given the strategic importance of quantum chips, six complementary quantum pilot lines have been established under the EU-Chip Act. Each focuses on a specific hardware platform and collectively advance quantum technologies in the areas of quantum computers, communication, and sensing. Within this portfolio, SPINS is the pilot line dedicated to semiconductor-based spin qubits, with a primary focus on developing quantum chips for quantum computer applications. Imec coordinates this new pilot line and leads a European consortium of 25 partners from research institutions such as Fraunhofer, VTT, and CEA-Leti, from industry (including large companies like Infineon and Siltronic as well as SMEs and startups), and from academic groups (such as TU Delft and the University of Jyväskylä), who share their knowledge and skills with the goal of translating the strategic framework of the EU-Chip Act into concrete actions.

Initial projects of the SPINS consortium include process and design optimization to create a robust foundation for scalable, stable, and high-performance spin qubits on three different technology platforms: Si/SiGe, Ge/GeSi, and SOI. SPINS aims to transfer this technology from the lab into production via Multi-Project Wafers (MPW) and standardized quantum Process Design Kits (PDKs), lowering entry barriers for startups and SMEs in semiconductor quantum technology and laying the groundwork for European companies to build early quantum expertise.

Quote from imec - Kristiaan De Greve, SPINS Coordinator: "Scaling qubits requires an extremely controllable environment and solid manufacturing processes due to the extreme sensitivity of qubits to environmental disturbances. These challenges demand the precision and control only available in a semiconductor cleanroom infrastructure, as well as the research and innovation mindset to adapt such environments to these sensitive qubits. At imec, we have been creatively tackling complex problems in modern semiconductor manufacturing for over 40 years. By pooling the expertise of our European consortium partners in this quantum pilot line, we will accelerate the development of high-TRL semiconductor qubits and enable quantum systems at a larger scale, made in Europe."

In addition to the semiconductor technology pilot line, there are other European quantum research projects, including the photonics pilot line for quantum "P4Q" (coordinated by the University of Twente, NL), in which imec is also involved; ion trap qubits "CHAMP-ION" (coordinated by SAL, AT); superconducting qubits "SUPREME" (coordinated by VTT, FI); diamond quantum chips "DIREQT" (coordinated by CNR, IT); and neutral atoms "Q PLANET" (coordinated by Pasqal, FR).

About imec

Imec is a world-leading research and innovation hub in advanced semiconductor technologies. Leveraging its state-of-the-art R&D infrastructure and the expertise of over 6,500 employees, imec drives innovation in semiconductor and system scaling, artificial intelligence, silicon photonics, connectivity, and sensing.
Imec’s advanced research powers breakthroughs across a wide range of industries, including computing, health, automotive, industry, consumer electronics, aerospace, and security. Through IC-Link, imec guides companies through every step of the chip journey—from initial concept to full-scale manufacturing—delivering customized solutions tailored to meet the most advanced design and production needs.
Imec collaborates with global leaders across the semiconductor value chain, as well as with technology companies, startups, academia, and research institutions in Flanders and worldwide. Headquartered in Leuven, Belgium, imec has research facilities in Belgium, across Europe, the USA, and the GCC region, with representation on three continents. In 2024, imec reported revenues of €1.034 billion.