Despite the weak economical situation and the severe downturn of the industry, research and design institute IMEC of Belgium increased its contract income. In 2001, the self-generated income rose by 22% to 91m euro. The institute produces 76% of its total budget (119.8m euro), the remaining 24% being funded by the Flemish government. IMEC continued to build its technology portfolio with its own intellectual property rights as a basis for cooperation with industrial partners. The scientific results are reflected among othersin the 41patents granted and39 filed. Several research programs were consolidated. This resulted in an increased multidisciplinary approach and convergence of different research teams. As an example, the program „wafer-level packaging on copper and low-k materials“ focuses on these challenges in IC manufacturing. The increase in cooperations is also visible in the growth of the staff. Companies tend to perform research and development in partnerships to share cost, risk and knowledge. As an independent research and development center, IMEC’s business model promotes such partnerships. The increase in cooperations resulted in the opening of a office in Shanghai, China.
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