Eleven companies have joined the second cohort of the UK’s ChipStart accelerator programme run by Silicon Catalyst UK.
The companies in the latest ChipStart pilot programme include a RISC-V ‘tasklet’ processor, quantum control technology, a neuromorphic processor, wearable hormone monitoring patch and design tools for AI accelerators.
Apitronix in Sheffield is developing a Tasklet processor based on the RISC-V instruction set architecture specifically for embedded workloads. Apitronix is developing a chip, bus and toolchain that harness the power of many tiny cores, allowing them to work together cooperatively to handle complex embedded software applications.
Qontrol in Bristol has been developing control systems for photonic quantum computers, while Heronic Technologies in London is developing automated software for TinyML AI accelerators for FPGA devices from AMD, Altera, Lattice, Microchip, and Gowin as well as developing an ASIC toolflow and Rigpa in Edinburgh is developing a neuromorphic AI chip.
“Nine of the eleven firms in the next group come from UK universities and are set to build on the success of the first cohort, which secured a strong position in the international semiconductor supply chain through private funding and global partnerships. After nine months of rigorous training, ChipStart has created over thirty new UK semiconductor executives, ready to scale their businesses towards global success,” said Sean Redmond, Managing Partner, Silicon Catalyst UK.
The programme gives access to commercial design capability, including the full Silicon Catalyst ecosystem, design tools, IP, and prototyping capability, as well as commercial expertise and mentorship: Startups receive guidance from experienced semiconductor industry executives and connections to Silicon Catalyst’s global network and exposure to private capital with access to over 270 Silicon Catalyst advisors, Strategic Partners, and an extensive network of investment groups
“Innovation in semiconductors can underpin technological advancements in every field, from AI to consumer devices and healthtech. British researchers across the country are leading in R&D in this essential field and the support we are delivering through ChipStart is helping their ideas become reality,” said UK Minister for Science Patrick Vallance.
“As well as the commercial success of the first cohort, the innovations ChipStart is supporting could help to change lives, from helping to develop new fertility treatments to optimising AI and extending the battery life of devices we use every day. We are making sure British science leadership converts to help address critical global challenges and drive economic growth.”
The aim of the pilot is to provide the UK’s semiconductor industry with a pipeline of new startups that have an innovative product, route to market, and are a foundation for future growth, including routes to future seed funding.