UK's ChipStart Program Supports Semiconductor Startups

The UK government’s ChipStart programme has successfully supported semiconductor start-ups in raising over £10 million in funding, with total commitments nearing £20 million. Launched in October 2023 with £1.3 million in backing, ChipStart aims to foster innovation in areas such as AI efficiency and healthcare technologies. The second cohort includes eleven new companies, such as POM Health, which is developing a wearable patch for hormone monitoring, and HeronIC, which has created a software tool for custom AI chips. The programme provides participants access to design capabilities, mentorship, and private capital, helping to commercialize groundbreaking research. Minister for Science Patrick Vallance emphasized the importance of semiconductor innovation for driving advancements across various sectors. The initiative is also bolstering the UK's position within the global semiconductor supply chain, with several start-ups emerging from university research.