Silicon Catalyst accelerator for semiconductor startups

Silicon Catalyst is an accelerator focused on the global semiconductor industry. It accepts applications from startups working on chips, chiplets, materials, IP and silicon based photonics, MEMS, sensors, life science and quantum. It says it has engaged with more than 1,500 semiconductor hardware startups and admitted over 150.

Admitted companies join a customised 24 month acceleration program guided by a Silicon Catalyst partner, with a semiconductor curriculum and more than 40 events a year. In kind partners such as TSMC, Synopsys, Arm, ST and MathWorks give each startup several million dollars worth of goods and services, including EDA tools, IP, PDKs, prototypes, design and test services and packaging. Silicon Catalyst Ventures and Silicon Catalyst Angels invest in portfolio companies, and a network of more than 350 advisors supports the teams.

Applications are rolling. After you apply, the team holds a call with you, and if both sides are interested, advisors help with due diligence. Selected companies pitch at a Pre Screening event to 12 to 15 technical advisors, then at a Screening event to more than 50 advisors, investors and partners. Each stage runs twice a year, and admission is offered after the Screening event.

Silicon Catalyst looks at 11 criteria, including a capable team, openness to coaching, a real need for its ecosystem, a large problem, differentiated technology with IP protection, a large market, customer traction and a realistic financial plan. The application page gives tips on how to describe the product, the type of chip and process node, the market size and the business model.

The program is active. On 2 September 2026 Silicon Catalyst announced a partnership with SEMI at SEMICON Taiwan 2026 and invited local startups to apply.

Quick answers

How much does it pay?

In kind goods and services worth several million dollars per startup.

When is the deadline?

There is no fixed deadline. Applications are reviewed as they arrive.

Who can apply?

Semiconductor hardware startups worldwide working on chips, chiplets, materials, IP or silicon based photonics, MEMS, sensors, life science and quantum. Applicants from anywhere in the world can enter, unless the eligibility rules say otherwise.

How do I apply?

Through the official page at siliconcatalyst.com. The link is at the top of this page.

Can I talk to the team before applying?

Yes. Silicon Catalyst offers an introductory meeting or call if you email webinfo@siliconcatalyst.com.

How often are startups selected?

There are two Pre Screening events and two Screening events a year, and admission is offered after the Screening event.