Eleven UK semiconductor start-ups, focused on enhancing AI efficiency and developing lifesaving healthcare technologies, have joined a government-supported initiative to transform their research into viable businesses.
Semiconductor chips, integral to technologies from smartphones to advanced medical devices, are the backbone of modern innovation.
The selected companies are part of the second cohort of ChipStart, an incubator program launched in October 2023 with £1.3 million in funding. This initiative aims to foster the next generation of chip designers and attract nearly £20 million in private investments and grants, stimulating economic growth.
Among the new participants is POM Health, which is pioneering a wearable patch for continuous hormone monitoring. This breakthrough could revolutionize healthcare by improving fertility treatments and providing real-time hormonal health insights for women.
Another participant, HeronIC, has developed a software design tool that creates custom chips for AI applications, enhancing energy efficiency and performance in complex tasks.
Patrick Vallance, Minister for Science, stated, “Innovation in semiconductors can drive advancements in every field, from AI to healthtech. British researchers are at the forefront of R&D in this crucial area, and our support through ChipStart is turning their ideas into reality.”
Vallance highlighted the success of ChipStart’s first cohort, which secured over £10 million in private investments and grants, with commitments nearing £20 million. He emphasized that ChipStart’s support could lead to transformative innovations, from new fertility treatments to optimized AI and extended battery life in everyday devices. The program ensures British scientific leadership addresses global challenges and drives economic growth.
ChipStart provides early-stage semiconductor companies with:
Commercial Design Capability: Access to the Silicon Catalyst ecosystem, including design tools, IP, and prototyping facilities.
Expertise and Mentorship: Guidance from experienced semiconductor industry executives and connections to Silicon Catalyst’s global network.
Private Capital Exposure: Access to over 270 Silicon Catalyst advisors, strategic partners, and investment groups.
Upon completion, the pilot aims to deliver a pipeline of innovative start-ups with market-ready products and routes to future funding, bolstering the UK’s semiconductor industry.
Sean Redmond, Managing Partner of Silicon Catalyst UK, said, “ChipStart UK leverages the nation’s position as a global semiconductor research hub to convert academic innovations into market-ready technologies.”
Nine of the eleven new cohort members originate from UK universities, building on the first cohort’s success, which established a strong position in the international semiconductor supply chain through private funding and global partnerships. After nine months of training, ChipStart has produced over thirty new UK semiconductor executives poised for global success.
MintNeuro CEO and Co-Founder Dorian Haci remarked, “The ChipStart UK program and Silicon Catalyst ecosystem have provided essential tools and a network of semiconductor-focused mentors. Since joining, we’ve secured additional funding and key partnerships, accelerating the commercialization of our pioneering neural implant technologies to improve millions of lives.”
Vaire Computing, another beneficiary, raised $4.5 million to develop revolutionary low-power chips, potentially extending smartphone battery life to a month. CEO Rodolfo Rosini emphasized the value of the networking opportunities provided by ChipStart, which were crucial for their long-term success.
Wave Photonics, closing an early funding round at £4.5 million, is simplifying the design of photonic chips that use light instead of electricity, enhancing speed and energy efficiency. CEO James Lee highlighted the program’s role in enabling their technology to advance biosensing and quantum computing.
The ChipStart program, run by Silicon Catalyst UK experts, offers invaluable expertise and tooling, essential for the burgeoning integrated photonics industry.
By supporting these start-ups, the UK is solidifying its position as a leader in semiconductor innovation, driving forward the next wave of technological breakthroughs.
Related Links:
