Request for interest to realise a commercial cleanroom facility in Delft
The Quantum Delta NL Foundation (QDNL) is committed to advancing quantum technology and fostering its ecosystem. A core aspect of our mission is to support start-up companies within the quantum domain by providing the essential resources they need to succeed.
As the quantum ecosystem grows, start-ups are increasingly in need of scalable cleanroom facilities (ISO 5 or 6) equipped with shared processing and testing equipment. These facilities are crucial for developing quantum products, such as quantum chips, to meet evolving industry standards and keep pace with rapid technological advancements. However, the high capital costs associated with building and maintaining cleanroom infrastructure present a significant challenge for start-ups and mid-size companies, which often lack the necessary financial resources to undertake such investments independently.
To address this gap, QDNL plans to establish a new facility that will provide the technical space and infrastructure needed to support the development of cleanrooms. This facility will be equipped with essential utilities, including installed gas and water lines, waste disposal capabilities, and the necessary technical support. However, the cleanrooms themselves must be designed, constructed, maintained, and exploited by an external company. The facility aims to support the fast-turnaround production of chips and other quantum applications, helping start-ups successfully navigate the "valley of death."
The cleanrooms will have to be accessible to small and mid-size companies, enabling them to install proprietary equipment and scale their operations without the burden of heavy capital investment. Therefore, the cleanrooms should offer secure, customizable environments for companies, allowing for greater process control and protection of intellectual property. A dedicated team of specialists, provided by the cleanroom developers, must be available to support company operations and ensure the smooth functioning of the cleanrooms.
QDNL invites companies with the expertise to design, construct, operate and commercially exploit cleanroom facilities within this provided technical space to submit their proposals. We seek partners with a proven track record in cleanroom management and the manufacturing processes involved in complex quantum technologies. Additionally, interested parties should demonstrate a compelling business case supported by committed users.
Financial support from the Growth Fund budget is available to facilitate the realization of this facility. Companies interested in this opportunity are encouraged to express their interest by September 22, 2024.
