On January 27, 2026, the Lifeport Semicon Event brought together the Dutch semiconductor ecosystem at the Goffertstadion. Industry leaders, researchers, policymakers, educators and innovators met for a day defined by depth, openness and a shared sense of urgency.
More than 400 participants explored how semiconductors shape our future, not only from a technological perspective, but also through talent development, health applications and cross-sector collaboration. What stood out was the quality of the dialogue: strategic, forward-looking and rooted in real cooperation.
From cutting-edge research to future computing
One of the highlights of the programme was the keynote on neuromorphic computing by Alexander Khajetoriaans, offering a glimpse into how brain-inspired chip architectures could radically change the way we process information. His talk illustrated how fundamental research and semiconductor innovation are increasingly intertwined, and how Europe can play a leading role in this next wave of computing.
Across plenary sessions and deep-dive tracks, themes such as AI, advanced chip design, strategic resilience and Europe’s technological autonomy returned time and again, underlining the importance of long-term investment in both knowledge and people.
Innovation Square: where technology meets creativity and entrepreneurship
At the heart of the event, the Innovation Square showcased the region’s innovative strength. Entrepreneurs presented cutting-edge semiconductor applications alongside artistic interpretations of chip technology and its history. This unique combination of startups, scale-ups and art made abstract technology tangible and sparked conversations well beyond traditional sector boundaries.
The presence of students and young professionals, also actively involved in organisation, hospitality and content, further reinforced the event’s focus on learning, growth and future talent.
Semiconductors as an enabler for health and society
A recurring theme throughout the day was the crucial role semiconductors play in healthcare and life sciences. From medical devices and diagnostics to data-driven care and sustainable health systems, advanced chips are a key enabler of innovation in health. By explicitly connecting semicon technology with health applications, the programme highlighted why collaboration between these domains is essential for societal impact.
A shared ambition for the Lifeport region
The Lifeport Semicon Event made clear that the Arnhem–Nijmegen region is not only part of the semiconductor conversation, it actively shapes it. With strong research institutions, an engaged public sector and a growing innovation ecosystem, the region demonstrated its ability to connect strategy, execution and talent.
Above all, the event showed the power of bringing the right people together in the right setting. The atmosphere of trust and openness turned ambition into concrete steps forward.
With this first edition, the Lifeport Semicon Event set a strong foundation for the future. Building on this momentum, the community will continue to strengthen collaboration, invest in talent and work towards a resilient, innovative and impactful semiconductor ecosystem.
