University news

Three pioneering companies from the University of Glasgow have been selected to join a UK government-backed incubator programme designed to support early-stage semiconductor startups.

ChipStart aims to provide technical expertise and commercial support to semiconductor innovators, fostering growth and the creation of high-skilled jobs.

The three University of Glasgow projects chosen to join the third cohort of the UK programme are RX Watt Ltd, Kelvin Quantum and AIDE. All are at the pre-incorporation stage.

RX Watt specialises in simultaneous wireless transfer of power and data, with technology that aims to revolutionise maintenance-free sensing through integrated wireless power and communication and reduce battery waste.

Kelvin Quantum is developing cryo-capable electronics for quantum applications, offering a range of products from individual integrated circuits to entire systems tailored for control and readout requirements in quantum computing.

AIDE is working on ground-breaking AI tools to enable electronics engineers to achieve new levels of productivity and efficiency in the design of antennas, analogue integrated circuits (ICs), radio frequency integrated circuits (RFICs) and filters. AIDE is aiming to launch its first products in late 2025.

A cornerstone of both the UK and global tech economies, semiconductors are vital components that power smartphones, computers, and many other devices, including those essential for building AI tools.

The University has seen this key area of research and innovation grow from strength to strength, and an Innovation Cluster Development Fund which ran earlier this year demonstrated the vibrant pipeline of projects being developed across the campus.

The University also recently received a £3 million grant from the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council to establish ANALOGUE, one of the UK's most advanced semiconductor research facilities.

ChipStart is delivered by SiliconCatalyst.UK, the UK arm of the world's only incubator focused exclusively on accelerating semiconductor solutions. The programme offers mentorship, industry connections, and access to cutting-edge design tools to help early-stage semiconductor companies turn their ideas into real-world products.

Companies from the first two ChipStart cohorts are already on track to raise over £40 million in private investment, highlighting the programme's effectiveness in nurturing semiconductor innovation and entrepreneurship in the UK.

Helen Harkness, interim Director of Innovation & Entrepreneurship at the University of Glasgow, said: “We are delighted that three of our exciting early-stage start-ups have been selected to take part in this prestigious UK government-backed incubator programme.

“Their selection is proof of the depth and quality of the research and innovation coming through the entrepreneurial teams in all parts of the institution. We very much look forward to seeing how these projects benefit from their inclusion on the ChipStart programme and how they can go on to create impact in the commercial world.”

Science Minister, Lord Vallance said: “The UK’s semiconductor industry is vibrant with innovation, and this third cohort shows just how much potential we have with many exciting start-ups.

“This sector holds incredible promise, and with the right partnerships, it will lead us into a future of greater economic growth and technological advancement – a key pillar of our Plan for Change.”

First published: 10 April 2025