The Xiver MEMS foundry in Eindhoven is entering a new growth phase. Once part of Philips, the business struggled to cover its costs. Today, new owners see a strong future for the company at the High Tech Campus. Their goal is clear, turn advanced microtechnology into a profitable, fast-growing semiconductor business.

Xiver now wants more space, more customers, and more production power. Therefore, the company has signed a long lease for its full building. Its floor space will grow from 7,000 to 15,000 square meters next year.

From Philips Department to an Independent Company

Under Philips, the unit was known as Innovation Engineering MEMS. It made tiny mechanical parts that sit on chips. These parts support antennas, sensors, and measuring systems. Customers include major high-tech companies such as ASML.h3>A New Market-First Strategy

According to Xiver leadership, the old Philips model created a problem. First, engineers developed technology. After that, the company looked for a market. As a result, the cleanroom was not used enough.

Now, Xiver has changed that approach. Instead of asking what technology it can build, the company asks what customers need. Then, it works with them to create the right solution. This shift makes the business more focused, faster, and easier to scale.

CEO Wil van de Wiel describes the new model as a market calling for Xiver’s technology. In other words, customers now guide the direction. That creates a stronger link between innovation and revenue.

Strong Backing From Industry Leaders

Investor Cees Meeuwis stepped in when Philips put the unit up for sale. At first, unions viewed the move with caution. However, Meeuwis brought in a strong team with deep semiconductor experience.

The group includes former Philips executive Kees Wesdorp and former NXP CEO Rick Clemmer. More recently, Xiver also added George Davis, former CFO of Intel and Qualcomm. Because of this leadership, Xiver gained both capital and global industry knowledge.

The team also invested in the company themselves. That shows confidence in Xiver’s future. Moreover, it gives the company a clear entrepreneurial culture.

Building a Business From the Ground Up

The early months were not easy. According to Meeuwis, the company had to build basic business systems almost from scratch. Even simple operating structures needed attention.

John van Soerland, formerly of VDL and Philips, first joined as interim CEO. He helped stabilize the company during its transition. Soon after, Wil van de Wiel took over and sharpened the strategy.

One of the first major steps was to stop eighteen projects. The reason was simple. Xiver needed focus. If a project could not clearly explain its value, it no longer fit the plan.

Customers Now Pay the Bills

Xiver expects to move out of the red this year. Revenue should pass 30 million euros by the end of the year. Based on signed contracts, the company expects to reach 100 million euros in revenue by 2030.

Van de Wiel describes the factory as a strong machine. Put one euro in, and five euros can come out. That statement shows the company’s belief in its production model.

To support the growth, Xiver is preparing a 50 million euro investment program. This money will fund a new production line and more automation. In addition, it will help the company handle rising demand.

Xiver also says this should be its final funding round. After that, management expects the company to finance itself through customers. Therefore, the business does not plan to rely on subsidies.

Photonics and Defense Open New Doors

Xiver sees major growth in photonics and defense. These markets are expanding quickly. However, the current revenue forecast does not yet include their full potential.

From Philips Department to an Independent Company

Under Philips, the unit was known as Innovation Engineering MEMS. It made tiny mechanical parts that sit on chips. These parts support antennas, sensors, and measuring systems. Customers include major high-tech companies such as ASML.Photonics may become especially important. Xiver believes this market could help lift future revenue toward 400 million to 500 million euros. Much of that growth may come from the United States.

This is where the leadership team may help again. Meeuwis has lived in the United States, while Clemmer and Davis bring strong American business networks. As a result, Xiver has a better chance to connect with large international customers.

A Bigger Factory on the High Tech Campus

The High Tech Campus gives Xiver a powerful base. It sits close to major technology players, including ASML. That location helps the company find partners, talent, and customers.

Next year, Philips employees and ASML teams that still use parts of the building will move out. Then, Xiver will take the full site. This expansion will more than double its available space.

The company has already ordered a new DUV chip machine from ASML. The tool costs several tens of millions of euros. Still, Xiver views it as a needed step for future production.

Growth Also Means More Jobs

Xiver started with 109 employees from the former Philips unit. Now, the company plans to hire dozens more this year. By 2030, management expects around 240 people to work at the site.

The company also wants to retain its technical talent. Much of Xiver’s value sits in the knowledge of its people. Therefore, employees will share in the profits.

This approach supports both loyalty and growth. It also shows that Xiver sees its workers as part of the company’s long-term success.

A New Chapter for Eindhoven Chip Technology

Xiver’s story shows how a struggling corporate unit can change direction. With new owners, sharper focus, and paying customers, the company now aims much higher.

The next few years will show how far the Xiver MEMS foundry can scale from Eindhoven into global semiconductor markets.

Source: Original Dutch article by Bart-Jan van Rooij, Eindhovens Dagblad, June 6, 2026.