adopted by a resolution of the Cluster Council of 1 August 2025
Introduction
Development of microelectronics and photonics forms the foundation of the modern digital economy, defense, healthcare, and Industry 4.0. In the face of the growing importance of advanced technologies and global challenges related to supply chain security, the energy transition, and digitalization, a strategic approach to building strong, integrated innovation ecosystems is essential.
The Microelectronics, Electronics and Photonics Cluster (microEPC) Strategy for 2025–2030 addresses these challenges by defining a shared vision, mission, and strategic objectives for the scientific, industrial, and business communities. This document sets the direction for the Cluster’s development as a leading platform for collaboration, knowledge transfer, and the commercialization of advanced technologies, enhancing the international competitiveness of Polish companies.
This Strategy has been developed through close consultation with Cluster members and serves as a roadmap for joint activities in research, development, investment, internationalization, and the promotion of the microelectronics and photonics sectors. Its implementation will contribute to increasing the value added of the Polish economy and strengthening Poland’s position as an important player in the European value chain for advanced technologies.
1. Vision
The Microelectronics, Electronics, and Photonics Cluster is a leading microelectronics and photonics ecosystem in Central and Eastern Europe, serving as a catalyst for innovation, economic growth, and Poland’s digital transformation.
2. Mission
To strengthen synergies among the scientific, industrial, business, and business support communities in order to develop breakthrough technological solutions, foster knowledge transfer, and enhance the international competitiveness of Poland’s high-tech sector, while also representing the interests of the industry at both the national and international levels.
3. Strategic Objectives
- Strengthen the technological capabilities and competitiveness of member companies.
- Build an integrated value chain spanning from research and development to manufacturing and international sales.
- Enhance business performance through collaboration and resource sharing.
- Actively participate in European and international projects and initiatives.
- Professionally represent stakeholders and promote the industry and the Cluster at both the national and international levels.
4. Key Activities
I. Collaboration and knowledge transfer
- Technology workshops, hands-on training sessions, and expert lectures
- Knowledge-sharing platform, mentoring, and member competency mapping
Proposed actions
Mapping the competencies of Cluster members
Objective of the activity:
Systematically identify and organize the Cluster members’ key competencies, unique know-how, and business offerings in order to enhance collaboration, facilitate knowledge exchange, and support the development of joint projects.
Scope of implementation:
- Identification of key technological competencies – including specialized technologies, manufacturing processes, and innovative solutions.
- Analysis of business offerings – identifying potential areas for collaboration, opportunities for joint projects, and services or capabilities available to other Cluster members.
- Sharing the competency mapping results – through a dedicated online platform and during regular Cluster member meetings.
Other areas of cooperation and knowledge exchange:
- Funding acquisition – expertise in securing and effectively utilizing national and European funding opportunities.
- International expansion – experience in developing market entry strategies and building global collaboration networks.
- Corporate governance – sharing best practices in effective corporate management and governance, particularly valuable for new and less experienced Cluster members.
- Collaboration with the research sector – proven experience in implementing joint projects with research institutions and universities.
- Identification of EU funding programmes – expertise in monitoring, identifying, and applying for European technology and business support programmes.
Expected benefits:
- Effective matchmaking of business and technology partners.
- Faster formation of project consortia and collaborative R&D initiatives.
- More efficient utilization of the Cluster members’ resources and capabilities.
- Stronger synergies and greater integration within the Cluster through enhanced knowledge and experience sharing.
II. Community integration and networking
- Regular cluster and working group meetings
- Study visits, thematic cooperation, integration programs
Proposed actions
Regular Networking Meetings for Cluster Members.
Objective of the activity:
Strengthening relationships, fostering collaboration, and promoting the effective exchange of knowledge and experience through regular thematic meetings of Cluster members..
Scope of implementation:
- Monthly online meetings – regular virtual meetings held via video conferencing platforms.
- “5-minute spotlight” format – at each meeting, members have the opportunity to deliver a brief presentation (up to five minutes) introducing their organization, ongoing projects, achievements, and current challenges.
- Thematic sessions – meetings organized around specific topics, such as funding acquisition, international expansion, emerging technologies, or corporate governance, enabling more focused discussions and knowledge exchange.
- Moderated discussions – facilitated sessions designed to explore key topics in greater depth while encouraging the exchange of expertise, practical experience, and best practices.
Expected benefits:
- Facilitating networking and strengthening relationships among Cluster members.
- Improving understanding of other members’ activities, thereby increasing opportunities for collaboration.
- More effectively identifying shared areas of interest and potential partnerships.
- Promoting the regular exchange of practical experience and industry best practices.
III. Representation and lobbying
- Identifying and proposing development programmes in the fields of microelectronics and photonics.
- Collaborating with government authorities and public institutions.
- Establishing strategic partnerships across Europe and globally.
Proposed actions
Coordination of international projects by the Cluster
Objective of the activity:
Increase the success rate of Cluster members in international programmes, such as Horizon Europe, by leveraging the experience and expertise of members who have successfully participated in and delivered such projects.
Scope of implementation:
- Acting as the coordinator of international projects – the Cluster can actively coordinate and support members participating in international initiatives by providing the management and organizational structures required for the effective implementation of large-scale projects.
- Mentoring and advisory support from experienced members – members with extensive experience in international projects will share their expertise, provide best practices, support proposal writing, and assist in addressing organizational and procedural challenges.
- Organization of workshops and information sessions – regular training and networking events focused on programmes such as Horizon Europe, application procedures, administrative requirements, reporting, and effective project management.
- Information-sharing platform – establishing a dedicated online platform where members can exchange guidance, documentation, and practical experience related to the implementation of international projects.
Expected benefits:
- Improved success in applying for and implementing international projects by Cluster members.
- Easier access to funding from European programmes.
- Strengthening the Cluster’s position as a key international partner in the fields of microelectronics and photonics.
- Enhancing the capabilities of Cluster members through the effective exchange of expertise and best practices.
IV. Business Growth and Efficiency
- Development of joint market-oriented R&D projects, resource sharing, and the formation of collaborative consortia.
- Collaboration with start-ups and investors.
Proposed actions
Monthly Thematic Meetings of Cluster Members
Objective of the activity:
Create a regular forum for connecting with potential business, technology, and investment partners, while fostering the development of joint projects and collaborative consortia.
Scope of implementation:
- Monthly thematic meetings – regular online or in-person events focused on topics of strategic importance to the Cluster, such as technology, funding, commercialization, and science–industry collaboration.
- Cluster member presentations – opportunities for members to showcase their capabilities, business needs, ongoing projects, and investment plans.
- Networking sessions – dedicated time for direct discussions, relationship building, and the exchange of business contacts.
- Meetings with potential investors – engagement with investors and representatives of financial institutions interested in supporting or financing Cluster initiatives.
- Moderated panel discussions – in-depth discussions on key topics, exchange of best practices, and identification of synergies and collaboration opportunities.
Expected benefits:
- Establishing new business and technology partnerships.
- Increasing the number of collaborative initiatives and project consortia.
- Improving access to investors and funding opportunities.
- Strengthening relationships among Cluster members through regular and structured exchange of information and experience.
V. Industry promotion and image
- Joint trade fair stands, promotional activities abroad
- Building the cluster’s image as a leader in technological innovation
5. Time horizon and evaluation methods
Key strategy implementation indicators:
- Obtaining the National Key Cluster (KKK) status – achieving this prestigious designation within the first six months of the Strategy’s implementation.
- Value of funding secured for R&D activities and the Cluster’s operational development – continuous monitoring of the effectiveness of acquiring and utilizing funding for research, development, and operational activities.
- Number of collaborative R&D initiatives (consortia) – launching at least two new collaborative R&D projects per year involving Cluster members.
- Growth in Cluster membership – attracting a minimum of five new members annually, reflecting the Cluster’s attractiveness and the effectiveness of its activities.
- International promotional activities – participating in at least four international events per year, including trade fairs, conferences, and networking events, to increase the Cluster’s visibility and support its international expansion.
Concluding remarks
The Microelectronics, Electronics and Photonics Cluster (microEPC) Strategy for 2025–2030 has been developed to strengthen the position of Polish companies in both domestic and international markets while ensuring the long-term growth of the microelectronics and photonics sectors. The implementation of the proposed initiatives—including member competency mapping, regular networking events, and active participation in international projects—will enable the Cluster to fully leverage the synergies between academia, industry, and business support organizations.
The success of this Strategy will depend on the active engagement of all Cluster members and their willingness to collaborate, share knowledge, and support one another in pursuing common goals. Through collective effort, we can build an innovative ecosystem that becomes a recognized leader in microelectronics and photonics across the Central and Eastern European region.
We would like to thank everyone who contributed to the development of this Strategy and encourage all members to actively participate in implementing its initiatives. Together, we can achieve more by building a future driven by knowledge, innovation, and collaboration.