‘Future of Compute’ is about hybrid systems in which advanced semiconductors, quantum computing, integrated photonics, neuromorphic computing and high-performance computing (HPC) work together. Each technology is deployed where it is most effective. The Netherlands is well placed to capitalise on this: the knowledge base, the companies and the infrastructure are all in place. What is still lacking is coherence: a single shared vision that links existing programmes. This is now being developed.
Round-table discussion in The Hague
On Monday 21 September, imec, QDNL, PhotonDelta, Neuromorphic Computing NL (NC-NL), SURF, TNO, Techleap, Future Network Services (FNS), Invest-NL, Digital Holland and Holland High Tech gathered in The Hague for a closed-door round-table discussion on the Future of Compute, as part of the Digitalisation Week programme. The starting point: not to set up new programmes or structures, but to achieve greater coherence and joint programming within existing frameworks.
Four key themes from the conversation:
Start with the cross-overs; that’s where the value lies. Photonics–CMOS, packaging, quantum–semiconductor, the connection from cloud to edge: it is precisely at the interfaces between technologies and sectors that the opportunities lie which remain untapped for now.
The transition from lab to fab remains the most challenging step. Many initiatives focus on the early stages, whilst scaling up to production and adoption within the value chain takes years.
The demand side deserves more attention. Launching customers, concrete use cases and targeted procurement make the difference between a promising technology and a functioning ecosystem.
The enabling conditions determine the pace. Funding that also covers pilot projects and scaling up, regulations that genuinely encourage investment, and effective alignment with European programmes.
What next?
What stood out in particular was that a great deal is already happening, and there is a strong willingness to work together. Driven by this energy, the initiators of the ‘Shaping the Future of Compute’ call to action (Digital Holland, TNO, SURF, imec, Invest-NL and Holland High Tech) are now working towards a shared vision and a concrete action plan. Want to find out more and stay informed? Visit the page on the Future of Compute and sign up for updates.
