We are preparing an Erasmus+ KA220 (Higher Education) Cooperation Partnership addressing the EU-wide skills gap in microelectronics and semiconductor design, aligned with the EU Chips Act and Europe’s strategic autonomy goals.

Lead applicant: Technical University – Plovdiv branch (Bulgaria)Current partner: TEA NGO (Bulgaria)Indicative budget: ~€250,000Duration: 24 months

Project Focus

The project will develop and pilot an elective module “Chip Design & Semiconductor Ecosystem” within an MSc programme (also open to BSc students), combining:

• Transfer of an EU partner curriculum

• Train-the-trainers for academic staff

• Industry-based case studies and practicum

• Formal academic adoption and quality assurance

Bulgaria will serve as a pilot site, with a strong focus on transferability and replication across EU universities.

Partners Sought

We are looking for:

• Universities with expertise in microelectronics / chip design(preferably experienced Erasmus+ partners)

• Industry partners active in semiconductors or related ecosystems

Preferred countries: Germany, Netherlands, Ireland, Finland, Czech RepublicPartners from any Erasmus+ country with relevant expertise are welcome.

Erasmus+ Priority

Rewarding high-quality learning, teaching and skills development, with a strong focus on work-based learning, inclusion, and gender balance.

Interested in joining?Please contact us here on EPALE or send an email to zhechka.kalinova@gmail.com for a short concept note and next steps, and attach your Partner Information Form (PIF) outlining your organisation’s profile, expertise, and potential role in the project.