Press Release - 24th September 2025

SiliconCatalyst.UK Showcases ChipStart Companies at Microelectronics UK

Britain's semiconductor startup ecosystem took centre stage as SiliconCatalyst.UK showcased its ChipStart UK programme achievements at the inaugural Microelectronics UK conference at Excel London.

The two-day event on 24-25 September brought together over 4,000 professionals from across the semiconductor value chain, providing SiliconCatalyst.UK with a platform to demonstrate how targeted incubation transforms innovation into investable companies. Opening proceedings, Kanishka Narayan MP, Under-Secretary of State for AI, Online Safety and Semiconductors, announced a £10 million Innovate UK fund for semiconductor businesses, underlining the government's commitment to growing the UK's £10 billion semiconductor sector by 2030.

"We are delighted with the success of our UK semiconductor startup showcase. Leaving standing room only during the many compelling pitch sessions, the global semiconductor audience applauded the market winning companies on stage" Sean Redmond, President of SiliconCatalyst.UK and SiliconCatalyst.EU, speaking at the event.

The Startup Launchpad stage featured rapid-fire pitches from ChipStart UK companies. MintNeuro showcased neural implant technology for treating Parkinson's disease, while Wave Photonics demonstrated tools that simplify photonic chip design - using light instead of electricity for faster, more efficient processing.

“It was great to be able to showcase our innovation in front of industry leaders within the UK Semiconductor and Photonics ecosystem.” said Gwen Wyatt-Moon, CEO of Prospectral (ChipStart UK Cohort #3 company).

ChipStart UK operates at zero cost to participating startups and takes no equity, funded entirely by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology. Startups receive free Electronic Design Automation tools, complimentary prototype fabrication at leading foundries, and mentorship from over 350 industry advisors including Arm co-founders.

With more than 30 UK semiconductor executives upskilled through intensive monthly training sessions, and with a third cohort now underway, SiliconCatalyst.UK is establishing a sustainable pipeline of semiconductor talent and innovation.

"Seeing our fledgling companies stand up in front of the entire industry and deliver their pitches in such an accomplished manner was actually really inspiring. We have such fantastic talent in the UK, and it’s a real privilege to work with them on our programme.” Russell Haggar, Managing Director at ChipStart UK Programme, SiliconCatalyst.UK.

If you’re building innovations in semiconductors, photonics, sensing or embedded systems, register your interest with ChipStart UK. If you’re an investor or industry partner, contact us to learn how we can help your portfolio or business lines accelerate.