The partnership will expand Sony’s access to new innovations in sensing solutions development and help the company to create strategic relationships with young companies that are developing technologies complementary to Sony’s internal innovation. In addition, the partnership strengthens Silicon Catalyst’s role in helping new semiconductor companies address the challenges in moving from idea to realization.
“Sony is always open to collaborating with outstanding entrepreneurs, young technology companies and industry experts. This partnership is another example of our approach,” said Yasuhiro Kono, Corporate Executive, CFO of Sony Semiconductor Solutions. “We look forward to working with Silicon Catalyst’s community, and through this partnership establishing better and more open strategies in the design and development of next generation sensing platforms.”
Silicon Catalyst has created an ecosystem to provide critical support to semiconductor hardware start-ups as they move from idea through prototype to initial product.
Now in its seventh year of operation, Silicon Catalyst has reviewed over 400 early-stage companies and has admitted 48 start-ups into the incubator.
These Portfolio Companies have access to tools and services from a comprehensive network of In-Kind Partners (IKPs) -- including design tools, simulation software, design services, foundry PDK access and MPW runs, test programme development and tester access -- that significantly reduce the cost of chip development.
In addition, the start-ups are able to tap into the world-class Silicon Catalyst network of advisors and investors.
“Sony Semiconductor Solutions is the world’s leading image sensor company, and we are delighted to have them join the Silicon Catalyst ecosystem as our first Asian Strategic Partner,” said Nick Kepler, COO of Silicon Catalyst. “Sony has developed and deployed many generations of technical invention in image sensors, and we are excited to explore the next generations with them as image sensors evolve to include memory and AI while supporting always-on systems that bring greater convenience and possibilities to our world.
"Our partnership connects Sony with Silicon Catalyst’s curated portfolio of some of the most interesting semiconductor hardware start-ups; it also makes Sony more accessible to these start-ups, which reap tremendous benefits from deep, long-term engagements with industry leaders like Sony who can provide guidance and relationships with experts.”
