European Chips Act: Boosting Healthcare Tech Innovation & Sovereignty | Fenin Insights

The European Union’s ambitious push to bolster technological sovereignty through the European Chips Act is beginning to yield effects, extending even into the healthcare technology sector. Companies are closely observing how recent infrastructure funded under the “Chips for Europe” initiative can contribute to reducing reliance on external component suppliers and accelerating innovation in medical devices. This move comes at a critical juncture, as the healthcare industry increasingly depends on sophisticated microelectronics for everything from diagnostic tools to implantable sensors.

The European Commission has highlighted several key projects, including NanoIC, alongside pilot lines with strong connections to healthcare, such as Fames and PIXEurope. A significant investment of approximately €20 million is earmarked for health-specific activities within the Chips Joint Undertaking for the 2026 work program, as announced in a press release on February 26, 2026. The European Commission’s announcement details the allocation of funds and the strategic goals of the Chips Joint Undertaking.

In Spain, the Federation of Spanish Companies of Health Technology (Fenin), representing the industry, views these initiatives as strategic infrastructure with a direct impact on the sector. “These are crucial developments for ensuring a more resilient and independent supply chain for the European healthcare technology industry,” stated Jorge Huertas, President of Fenin, in a recent interview. Huertas, who has led Fenin since November 2022, having previously served as Vice President, emphasized the importance of reducing dependence on non-EU suppliers for critical microelectronics. He is as well the Director General of Oximesa Nippon Gases, bringing extensive experience in both national and international markets to his role. Fenin’s website provides further details on Huertas’s background and the organization’s mission.

Access to Prototyping and Technological Autonomy

According to Fenin, the impact of these platforms on healthcare technology will be initially realized through access to advanced manufacturing capabilities. This will enable startups and established companies to integrate cutting-edge semiconductor technologies into devices like wearables, implantable sensors, and wireless diagnostic systems without the demand for substantial investments in their own manufacturing infrastructure. This democratization of access to advanced prototyping is expected to spur innovation, particularly among smaller companies.

Many connected health solutions require chips with heterogeneous integration and embedded AI capabilities, which initiatives like Fames are designed to facilitate. This can drive the development of intelligent detection systems and increasingly sophisticated medical devices. The ability to process data locally, rather than relying solely on cloud computing, is also a key benefit, enhancing both security and responsiveness. Jorge Huertas’s LinkedIn profile highlights his experience in navigating these complex technological landscapes.

However, a particularly strategic aspect is industrial autonomy. Fenin points out that a significant portion of the microelectronics critical for medical applications currently originates outside the EU. These initiatives are intended to strengthen European autonomy in key technologies, reducing vulnerability to geopolitical disruptions and supply chain bottlenecks. This represents particularly relevant given the increasing geopolitical tensions and the strategic importance of semiconductors.

Concrete Applications in Advanced Sensing, Connectivity, and Implantables

Fenin identifies clear opportunities in several technological areas. In the field of advanced medical sensing, the new infrastructure can facilitate the development of high-precision optical and photonic imaging sensors, integrated chip-based biosensors, and microdevices capable of real-time clinical monitoring. These advancements are crucial for early diagnosis and continuous patient monitoring, potentially leading to improved health outcomes and reduced healthcare costs.

Regarding medical communication systems, platforms like Fames and PIXEurope can drive the design of chips specifically for 5G and future 6G connectivity applied to healthcare, as well as solutions for the Medical Internet of Things (IoMT). This will enable more secure, interoperable devices with lower latency, essential for applications like remote surgery and real-time patient data transmission. The development of secure and reliable communication networks is paramount for the widespread adoption of telehealth and remote patient monitoring.

there is significant potential in telemedicine and remote medicine through hardware with edge computing capabilities. This allows for clinical data to be processed directly on the device, reducing reliance on the cloud and improving the speed of decision-making. Edge computing is particularly valuable in situations where reliable internet connectivity is limited or unavailable, such as in rural areas or during emergencies.

The approximately €20 million in funding earmarked for health-specific activities within the Chips Joint Undertaking for 2026 is considered a valuable starting point by Fenin. However, they caution that it must be complemented by broader investments in infrastructure, integrated clinical trials, regulatory certification, and industrial access. A holistic approach, encompassing all stages of the development and deployment process, is essential for maximizing the impact of these investments.

The Role of the Chips Act in European Healthcare

The European Chips Act, formally adopted in September 2023, represents a comprehensive strategy to strengthen Europe’s semiconductor ecosystem. The European Commission’s website provides detailed information on the Act’s objectives, key measures, and timelines. The Act aims to double Europe’s global market share in semiconductors to 20% by 2030, a goal that requires significant investment and collaboration across the public and private sectors.

The healthcare sector stands to benefit significantly from this increased investment in semiconductor manufacturing and research. The demand for specialized chips in medical devices is growing rapidly, driven by advancements in areas like artificial intelligence, machine learning, and personalized medicine. By strengthening its domestic semiconductor industry, Europe can ensure a secure and reliable supply of these critical components, reducing its dependence on foreign suppliers and fostering innovation.

The Chips for Europe initiative, a key component of the Chips Act, focuses on supporting research and development, piloting innovative technologies, and building capacity for advanced manufacturing. The initiative is structured around three pillars: research and technology capacity, pilot lines, and competence centers. These pillars are designed to address the entire value chain, from basic research to commercial production.

The impact of the Chips Act extends beyond the immediate benefits of increased semiconductor production. It also has the potential to create new jobs, attract investment, and enhance Europe’s competitiveness in the global healthcare market. By fostering a vibrant and innovative semiconductor ecosystem, Europe can position itself as a leader in the development and deployment of cutting-edge medical technologies.

Looking ahead, continued collaboration between industry, government, and research institutions will be crucial for realizing the full potential of the Chips Act and ensuring that the European healthcare technology sector remains at the forefront of innovation. The next key milestone will be the implementation of the first wave of projects funded under the Chips Joint Undertaking, with initial results expected in late 2026 or early 2027. Stay informed about the latest developments by visiting the European Commission’s website and following updates from organizations like Fenin.

Key Takeaways:

• The European Chips Act is driving investment in semiconductor infrastructure, benefiting the healthcare technology sector.
• Initiatives like Fames and PIXEurope are providing access to advanced manufacturing capabilities for startups and established companies.
• Reducing reliance on non-EU suppliers of critical microelectronics is a key strategic goal.
• Applications in advanced sensing, connectivity, and implantables are poised for significant advancements.
• Continued investment and collaboration are essential for maximizing the impact of these initiatives.

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