Direct bonding heterogeneous integration packaging structures and processes include a packaging substrate with first and second opposing surfaces. A trench or a pedestal is provided in the first surface. A bridge is disposed in the trench or is adjacent the pedestal sidewall, wherein the bridge includes an upper surface coplanar with the first surface of the package substrate. At least two chips in a side by side proximal arrangement overly the bridge and the packaging substrate, wherein the bridge underlies peripheral edges of the at least two chips in the side by side proximal arrangement. The at least two chips include a plurality of electric connections that are directly coupled to corresponding electrical connections on the bridge and on the packaging substrate.