ChipStart Programme Now Accepting Applications

SiliconCatalyst is excited to announce that applications are now open for the ChipStart incubator, specifically designed for early-stage semiconductor startups in the UK.

ChipStart, supported by the government, aims to provide crucial technical and commercial assistance to help emerging semiconductor companies bring innovative products to the market successfully.

The second cohort of selected startup companies is set to commence their nine-month incubation journey on June 1st, 2024, following the successful launch of the first cohort in 2023.

The £1.3 million programme, delivered by SiliconCatalyst, has already made a significant impact. The first cohort of eleven semiconductor startups, currently halfway through their incubation period, have been benefiting from bespoke chip design tools, expert commercial guidance, mentorship from industry veterans, and networking opportunities with potential investors and partners.

"Since the inception of the world's first semiconductor design start-up incubator, UK firms have attracted nearly £7 million in additional investment, paving the way for the creation of high-value jobs and the development of the next generation of chip business leaders in the UK," stated Saqib Bhatti, Minister for Tech and Digital Economy.

Semiconductor startup applicants accepted into the ChipStart UK incubator will gain access to a range of resources, including electronic design tools, design IP functional blocks, semiconductor foundry prototyping, packaging, and test capabilities. These resources will be provided either at no cost or at a significant discount through the Silicon Catalyst ecosystem.

Each ChipStart UK startup will be paired with a dedicated Mentor selected from the Silicon Catalyst advisor base. These Mentors will work closely with the startups throughout the nine-month incubation period, providing guidance, industry-specific training sessions held three times a month, and tailored support to address the unique needs of each startup.

The comprehensive training offered through the incubator is designed to cultivate the next wave of semiconductor business leaders in the UK, equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the competitive industry.

"The inaugural call for ChipStart UK applications last year attracted 27 high-quality semiconductor startups from various regions in the UK. To be eligible, startups must have raised less than £1 million in private funding. For the second cohort, we are expanding our reach to tap into the deep pool of semiconductor research and innovation across the UK," explained Sean Redmond, Managing Partner of Silicon Catalyst UK. "The selected startups will receive a unique opportunity for accelerated success within the global semiconductor supply chain."

Interested startups can now submit their applications through the online form available on the SiliconCatalyst website. The deadline for applications is midnight on April 12th, 2024.