AIC T-Hub Foundation Announces Second Semiconductor Cohort: Selected Startups Unveiled

T-Hub has today announced the launch of the semiconductor cohort 2 under the AIC T-Hub Foundation program. In collaboration with Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), NITI Aayog, this initiative aims to nurture and scale promising semiconductor startups, fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in the sector.

The AIC T-Hub Foundation program, under the visionary partnership with AIM, has already seen success with cohorts focused on healthcare, mobility, and sustainability. This new semiconductor cohort will further contribute to India's technological landscape by supporting 10 startups over 6 months. Amongst the selected startups are- FaceIntel Systems, Clupav Scientific Pvt Ltd, Deep Grid Semi, Sego Automobile Solution Pvt Ltd, Spidex Technologies Pvt Ltd, Geocon, Chipex Technologies Pvt Ltd, and Zealy Smart System.

The cohort will concentrate on key areas such as Chip-level and Systems development for Telecom, IoT, AI, and Automotive. Startups will be chosen based on product innovation, patent strength, technological advancement, and the founding team's experience. The 6 month-long cohort-based program will feature group sessions, mentor meets, investor demo days, and market access mixers. Additionally, startups will receive support through MPW (Multi-Project Wafer) assistance, EDA (Electronic Design Automation) tools, access to T-works prototyping labs, and opportunities to connect with potential investors and customers.

Mahankali Srinivas Rao, CEO, of T-Hub, said, “T-Hub is committed to providing startups with the essential support, strategic partnerships, and an innovation-rich environment necessary for scaling their semiconductor breakthroughs. This cohort, with its focus on innovative technologies, is poised to play a pivotal role in reshaping and advancing the semiconductor sector, contributing to the sector's growth and innovation landscape."

Rajesh Adla, CEO of AIC T-Hub Foundation, stated, "Our goal is to cultivate a vibrant ecosystem that inspires and actively engages entrepreneurs to explore the semiconductor domain. AIC T-Hub Foundation is committed to nurturing the spirit of innovation in this dynamic industry."

The cohort launch event featured esteemed speakers, including Jayesh Ranjan, Principal Secretary, Information Technology (IT) & Industries and Commerce (I&C), Government of Telangana, industry leaders such as  Dr. Satya Gupta, President VLSI Society of India; Founder EPIC; Open-Silicon and IESA Chairman; Intel, Navin Bishnoi, Country Head (Marvell Technologies India) & AVP Engineering (Compute and Custom Solutions), Nazir.S, Senior Partner Manager ARM, Dr. Manoj Kumar, Director, Innovations and Partnerships, STMicroElectronics PadmajaRuparel, Co-Founder at Indian Angel Network & Founding Partner of IAN Fund. 

The AIC programs excel with 150+ startups, supported by 8+ Cr in funding, and enriched by an extensive network of 300+ mentors, marking a testament to its impactful journey. Two startups launched chips, and market access flourished with pilots for Mahindra, Schindler, Birla Group, and TCS. Interested startups can apply until November 2024.