Abstract
Taiwan's semiconductor industry has had a profound influence on both domestic economics and the global IT industry. To enhance its competitiveness and expand its global impact, the Taiwan government commenced the National Program for Intelligent Electronics (NPIE) in 2011 to promote technological innovation of medical electronics, green electronics, vehicular (car) electronics, conventional computer, communication, and consumer electronics, the so-called ""MGC4C"" applications. The government allocated a budget of $430 million over 5 years to facilitate technology development, advanced research, talent cultivation, industry promotion, and international collaboration. By coordinating with government agencies, research institutions, universities, and corporations, the NPIE develops an integrated framework of academia and industry in Taiwan. It also emphasizes the enhancement of product verification, regulations, and par- ticipation in international alliances and standards. By transferring academic results to industry in emerging MGC4C applications, it is expected that the NPIE will contribute to the global semiconductor community, energize Taiwan's IC industry, and create innovative products and intelligent systems for better life and better environment. © 2013 IEEE.