In the heart of Oulu’s technological ecosystem, a new initiative has emerged to unite the brightest minds and forward-thinking companies in microelectronics, semiconductors, and embedded programming. The “Chips for Breakfast” series, launched in November 2024, represents more than just a gathering—it’s a platform for collaboration, addressing industry challenges, and sparking innovation.
As Jussi Leponiemi, Key Account director of ICT sector, explains, the series was born from the growing need to bring together professionals and companies working in these rapidly evolving fields. “Oulu’s strong technological foundation and global relevance provided the perfect backdrop for this initiative. By contributing to the MEREBE project’s activities, we’re able to foster collaboration, share knowledge, and tackle the pressing challenges facing the industry.“
The primary goal of the series is to strengthen the microelectronics and semiconductor ecosystem in the region while creating opportunities for networking and collaboration. Beyond this, it aims to highlight cutting-edge research, address talent development and recruitment challenges, and provide a platform for solving shared problems and identifying opportunities. As Jussi Leponiemi explains, “Through these events, we hope to create a vibrant, innovation-driven community that propels the industry forward.”
The first event set the tone for what’s to come, featuring insightful presentations from industry leaders. Jussi Leponiemi opened the event with an engaging introduction to the challenges and opportunities within the sector, while Jaana Tähtinen, Coordinator of the MEREBE project, emphasized the importance of integrating academic, industry, and business perspectives. Aimo Vainio from the University of Oulu delivered an inspiring speech, and Rami Aikio of Timegate Instruments provided a brief yet impactful presentation about his company’s contributions.
Upcoming sessions in the series will dive into a variety of project-specific and technological topics. These include emerging trends in semiconductor technologies, advancements in embedded systems, and the applications of microelectronics in AI, IoT, and 6G. The content will also touch on innovations in chip design, energy-efficient processing, advanced packaging technologies, and integrating AI into semiconductor systems. Sustainability, security, and cutting-edge applications like quantum computing will also take center stage.
As the series grows, it aims to offer even more value to participants. Feedback from the inaugural event was overwhelmingly positive, with attendees praising the opportunity to engage with industry leaders and explore practical solutions to shared challenges. Many expressed excitement for future sessions, highlighting the series’ importance as a platform for collaboration and innovation.
“Chips for Breakfast” stands out not just for its focus on microelectronics and semiconductors, but also for its unique integration of academic, industry, and talent perspectives. Partnerships with initiatives like MEREBE and ICTOulu are central to its success.
These sectors are foundational to technological advancement, and Oulu is uniquely positioned to lead in this field. “By focusing on microelectronics, semiconductors, and embedded programming, we’re harnessing regional strengths to drive economic development and establish Oulu as a leader in the global tech landscape,” says Jussi Leponiemi.
The series will continue into the spring, with events planned every two months, each building on the momentum of the last. With its targeted focus, actionable collaboration opportunities, and deep connection to Oulu’s technological ecosystem, “Chips for Breakfast” is not only an event—it’s a movement shaping the future of innovation.