The Microelectronics Agenda, represented by AIDA CCI, is strengthening Portugal’s presence in the global microelectronics value chain through a strategic participation in ECTC 2025 in the United States.
The second day of the Electronic Components and Technology Conference (ECTC 2025), taking place in Dallas, Texas, was marked by high-level discussions and a strong dynamic of international networking.
The morning began with the keynote “Efficient Zettascale Computing in the Age of AI,” delivered by Samuel Naffziger from AMD, who addressed the growing challenges of large-scale computing in the face of artificial intelligence expansion. The speaker advocated for an integrated approach to innovation – from device design to data center infrastructure – as a critical condition for meeting the exponential demand for performance and energy efficiency.
The highlight of the day was the official opening of the conference’s technology exhibition area, which this year features over 130 exhibitors, representing more than 100 leading global companies in electronics, advanced materials, and packaging solutions. The Microelectronics Agenda is present at this prestigious international venue, represented by AIDA CCI – the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Aveiro District – reinforcing the international promotion of the Portuguese microelectronics sector.
During this second day of the exhibition, AIDA CCI engaged in strategic discussions with prominent companies and institutions, including IBM, Analog Devices, KLA, Tektronix, ASE Inc., Phoenix Semiconductor, Tokyo Electron Device LTD, and INDUM Corporation. Noteworthy meetings also took place with academic and institutional entities such as Penn State University – College of Engineering, NYU Tandon School of Engineering, and the Chips for America initiative.
Of particular relevance were the connections established with suppliers of materials and equipment for the Packaging and Test industry, with the aim of promoting Portugal as an attractive destination for the establishment and integration of companies from this value chain into an emerging European cluster with strong growth potential and privileged access to European talent and innovation.
Portugal’s participation in ECTC has proven to be a strategic platform for showcasing the technical expertise and know-how of companies within the Microelectronics Agenda consortium, positioning the country as a relevant player in the international semiconductor ecosystem.
The day’s program also included the “Student and Startup Innovation Challenge,” a contest that brought together young talents and startups to present innovative solutions to a specialized jury, in a dynamic format with audience interaction, prize awards, and a final networking session.
The continued presence of the Microelectronics Agenda at ECTC, led by AIDA CCI, reinforces Portugal’s position as a strategic player in the global microelectronics value chain, actively contributing to the technological development and international recognition of the national sector.
The Microelectronics Agenda benefits from a total eligible budget of €67,493,749.21, of which €30,048,411.91 is funded by the NextGenerationEU initiative. With the project’s completion scheduled for June 30, 2025, Portugal aims to assert itself as a leader in the global semiconductor sector, having already executed over 60% of the budget and made significant progress in product development, sustainability, and workforce training.
