SEMI and Silicon Catalyst have announced a global strategic partnership intended to connect semiconductor hardware startups more closely with manufacturers, investors, technology providers, and industry organizations.

The memorandum of understanding was signed at SEMICON Taiwan 2026. The organizations said initial activities will involve Taiwan, the Americas, and Europe before expanding participation opportunities across SEMI’s global membership.

Startup access to industry resources

Under the partnership, SEMI members are expected to gain access to Silicon Catalyst’s startup network, while accelerator companies will be introduced to SEMI’s global network of companies, investors, technology partners, and industry resources.

The first activities are planned around startup-focused programs at SEMICON exhibitions. These include startup zones, investor-engagement programs, and technology showcases, beginning with the Silicon Startups Zone at SEMICON Taiwan 2026.

The arrangement is designed to address a persistent challenge for semiconductor startups. Hardware companies typically face lengthy development cycles, complex manufacturing requirements, and large capital needs before they can secure commercial scale. Connections to foundries, equipment suppliers, packaging specialists, customers, and investors can therefore be as consequential as access to design expertise.

Taiwan as the initial platform

SEMI said Taiwan’s experience in linking startups, investors, and established industry participants provides a base for a model that can be used across its worldwide network. Silicon Catalyst said the partnership will help its portfolio companies gain access to a broader semiconductor ecosystem.

Silicon Catalyst, founded in 2015, says it has engaged with more than 5,000 semiconductor startups and supported more than 150 portfolio companies. Those figures are supplied by the accelerator. SEMI says it connects more than 4,000 member companies and 1.5 million professionals in the electronics design and manufacturing supply chain.

Shih-Wei Sun, a founding managing director of Silicon Catalyst Ventures and a Silicon Catalyst board member, is scheduled to deliver a Venture Day keynote at SEMICON Taiwan on September 4. The partnership gives the event a broader startup and investment angle at a time when AI demand is placing fresh attention on chips, advanced packaging, power systems, and specialized hardware.

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