The Research and Development and Innovation Consortium, which manages the Sofia Tech Labs laboratory complex, is a partner in the Chips Competence Centre Bulgaria (C3BG) project. The initiative brings together leading research organisations, universities, and industry partners to strengthen Bulgaria’s capabilities in microelectronics and semiconductor technologies.
The project aims to establish a National Competence Centre for Integrated Circuits, providing businesses, startups, and the research community with access to specialised expertise, technological infrastructure, and opportunities to develop and test innovative solutions. The project will run from January 2026 to December 2029.
As a C3BG partner, the R&D&I Consortium will contribute through the specialised research infrastructure and expertise of Sofia Tech Labs, with a primary focus on the Micro- and Nanoelectronics Laboratory (Minolab) and the 3D Creativity and Rapid Prototyping Laboratory. The involvement of these two laboratories will strengthen the project’s scientific and technological capabilities, particularly in integrated circuit analysis, 3D modelling, and prototyping.
As part of C3BG, Sofia Tech Labs and Sofia Tech Park will work together to foster innovation and support the growth of startups in the technology sector. Planned activities include organising specialised events, establishing connections with industry and institutional partners, providing mentorship, assisting companies in identifying funding opportunities, and other forms of support. These efforts will also focus on advancing innovations with potential applications across sectors such as electronics, automotive manufacturing, healthcare, and beyond.
Sofia Tech Park plays a key role in connecting the research and entrepreneurial ecosystems. In partnership with the international research centre imec, the Park will support microelectronics startups through development programmes, expert guidance, and technology transfer. Companies will also gain access to specialised chip design software, European pilot lines for testing (Test Before Invest), and assistance with patent protection.
The C3BG project is implemented by an international consortium coordinated by the Technical University of Sofia. Its total budget amounts to approximately €8 million, funded through the Digital Europe Programme and national co-financing. Of this amount, €405,102 has been allocated to the R&D&I Consortium‘s activities under the project.
For more information: www.microelectronics.bg
Project 101217573 — C3BG — DIGITAL-Chips-2024-SG-CCC-1, Digital Europe Programme.
Co-funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are, however, those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the Chips Joint Undertaking. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.
