The Institut für Mikroelektronik Stuttgart (IMS CHIPS) carries out industrial-oriented research in silicon technology, customized circuits (ASICs), nanopatterning and image sensor technology as well as being involved in professional development. It is a public foundation and partner to the Innovationsallianz Baden-Württemberg. The institute has alliances with small- and medium-scale companies in Baden-Württemberg in particular and cooperates with top international semiconductor corporations and suppliers.