Powering the Next Era of Intelligent, Energy-Efficient Technology
Action Plan for Neuromorphic Computing
Action Plan for
Neuromorphic Computing
Neuromorphic Computing represents one of the most promising technological shifts of the coming decade. As demand for AI, data processing and automation continues to rise, traditional computing architectures struggle to scale sustainably. Neuromorphic systems—modelled on the efficiency of the human brain—offer a radical alternative. They enable ultra-fast, low-power data processing, unlock new possibilities for edge intelligence, and help address pressing challenges in energy use, digital sovereignty and industrial transformation.
Why an Action Plan for Neuromorphic Computing is necessary
The growth of data centres and AI applications is driving an explosive increase in global energy consumption. Neuromorphic Computing has the potential to break this trend, offering an energy reduction of between a factor of 10 and 1,000. In addition, the technology strengthens European digital sovereignty and industrial transformation by reducing Europe’s dependence on non-European chip technologies.
Three Strategic Action Lines
Three Strategic
Action Lines
The national Action Plan for Neuromorphic Computing consists of three strategic action lines
A strong foundation
The Netherlands is exceptionally well positioned in this emerging field and has a strong academic foundation. Furthermore, the Netherlands has pioneering start-ups such as Axelera AI, Innatera and Hoursec in this area, and deep expertise in semiconductors, AI and materials research.
The Netherlands is well-placed to take a leading international role. To seize this opportunity, Neuromorphic Computing NL (NC-NL) presents a national Action Plan for Neuromorphic Computing. This action plan serves as a flagship programme to stimulate investment from both public and private parties and is supported by its ecosystem. In total, an additional investment volume of approximately €50 million over five years is required, on top of current investments in neuromorphic Computing in the Netherlands.
More information
For a detailed overview of the vision, background, budget and implementation strategy, download the full Action Plan for Neuromorphic Computing below.
The white paper, “Neuromorphic Computing in the Netherlands", coordinated by Radboud University, highlights significant domestic expertise in the field and advocates for the establishment of a national coalition to coordinate future efforts in alignment with other key technologies.
Earlier, research and consultancy firm Birch, commissioned by Digital Holland, developed a roadmap with insights from neuromorphic experts from academia, government, and industry. The roadmap outlines how the Netherlands can maintain its leading position by strengthening collaboration.
Strong links with other key technologies
Strong links with
other key technologies
Neuromorphic Computing is one of the seven digital key technologies identified by Digital Holland. It is closely connected to no fewer than five of the ten priority key technologies of the Dutch National Technology Strategy. In addition to AI/Data and Cybersecurity Technologies, the digital key technologies within the Digital Holland portfolio, these include Semiconductor Technologies, Quantum Technologies and Optical Systems and Integrated Photonics (key technologies of Holland High Tech).
