Category: Hardware

• Digital twins projects in the semiconductor industry receive $285 million in US government funding, part of the CHIPS and Science Act signed by President Biden in 2022.
• Digital twins use virtual models to mimic real-world objects, enabling optimization and cost reduction for semiconductor manufacturers.
• The funding aims to establish an institute, CHIPS Manufacturing USA, for semiconductor digital twin development and research.

• Momentick, an Israel-based company, secures $6.5 million in funding to develop a satellite emissions platform
• The platform utilizes advanced algorithms and satellite imagery to detect methane leaks on land and offshore
• Methane is a potent greenhouse gas with significant warming potential
• Momentick’s technology aims to help countries, industries, and companies track and reduce their emissions
• Other innovators are also using satellite technology to monitor environmental health and address climate challenges

Company Raises Millions in Funding to Scan Entire Planet with Satellites: A One-Stop-Shop Emissions Intelligence Platform

In a world where environmental concerns are at the forefront of global discussions, innovative solutions are emerging to tackle the pressing issue of greenhouse gas emissions. Read more

• Imec.xpand, a Belgium-based venture capital fund, launches a €300M fund to accelerate semiconductor and nanotechnology innovations in collaboration with imec.
• The fund focuses on breakthrough technologies like AI, ML, AR/VR, and photonics, as well as advancements in life sciences such as cell therapy and medical diagnostics.
• Imec.xpand aims to build companies that lead technological transformation by empowering startups to bring innovative technologies to market faster.

• Hydrogen power projects in Alberta receive $57 million in funding from Alberta Innovates and Emissions Reduction Alberta (ERA)
• Alberta Innovates invests $22.5 million for 20 early-stage projects through its Hydrogen Centre of Excellence in partnership with Natural Resources Canada
• ERA commits $34.5 million for eight late-stage projects through its Accelerating Hydrogen Challenge using funding from Alberta’s Technology Innovation and Emissions Reduction program
• The funded projects cover various aspects of the hydrogen economy, including production, storage, transmission, distribution, and usage
• Recipients have specific timelines to complete their work, with some Canadian tech startups like Ayrton Energy, Ekona Power, and Gradient Thermal receiving funding for innovative hydrogen-related projects

Exploring the Impact of Hydrogen Power Projects in Alberta

The Alberta government recently announced a significant investment of $57 million into 28 hydrogen power projects, marking a crucial step towards advancing the province’s clean energy goals. Read more

• Wyoming coal projects at Dry Fork Station receive federal funding for CO2 capture and storage research
• Basin Electric Power Cooperative’s 405 MW coal-fired Dry Fork plant hosts the Wyoming Integrated Test Center for CCS testing
• Membrane Technology and Research (MTR) Carbon Capture receives $4.6 million for a Front-End Engineering Design study at Dry Fork
• TDA Research Inc. is selected for a large-scale pilot project at the Wyoming Integrated Test Center to test a sorbent-based CO2 capture system
• University of Wyoming, Colorado State University, and Living Ink Technologies collaborate on a $2.5 million project to convert industrial CO2 into high-value materials using algae-based carbon transfer process

Exploring CO2 Capture Projects at Wyoming Coal Plants

Wyoming coal projects have been making headlines with the recent funding received by Basin Electric Power Cooperative for carbon capture and storage (CCS) research projects at the Dry Fork Station near Gillette. Read more

• ICEYE, a Finnish SAR satellite company, secures $93M in growth funding led by Solidium Oy, aiming to expand global leadership in SAR technology.
• ICEYE specializes in SAR satellite operations for Earth Observation, offering persistent monitoring and natural catastrophe solutions.
• The funding will accelerate investment in ICEYE’s SAR satellite constellation, expand data and subscription products, and support growth in international markets.
• ICEYE aims to become the global leader in SAR technology by capitalizing on strong international momentum and revenue exceeding $100M in 2023.

• Solar energy solutions are not prominent in the Indian environment tech funding landscape, despite significant overall growth in the sector.
• Indian environment tech funding has reached $7.3 billion, with a notable increase from $0.23 billion to $2.47 billion between 2018 and 2022.
• Reliance’s acquisition of Sterling and Wilson Renewable in 2022 stands out in the solar sector, along with deals focused on Solar DERMS and funding for Avaada.

• Oregon is seeking federal funding for a National Semiconductor Technology Center in Bend
• Governor Tina Kotek highlights Oregon’s strong foundation in semiconductor industry
• Intel plans to invest over $37 billion in Oregon for research and development
• U.S. Sen. Ron Wyden emphasizes job opportunities in semiconductor industry
• Oregon’s initiative supported by Intel’s Executive Vice President Ann Kelleher

Oregon Semiconductor Funding: Seeking Federal Support for Innovation

In a bold move to solidify its position as a leader in semiconductor technology, Oregon is embarking on a mission to secure federal funding for the establishment of a National Semiconductor Technology Center (NSTC) affiliated technical center. Read more

• RayGen secures over $51 million in new funding to accelerate the commercialization and deployment of its concentrated PV and thermal hydro long-duration energy storage technology
• Funding includes investments from global oilfield services giant SLB and state government-backed independent investment fund manager Breakthrough Victoria
• Funds will be used to expand solar cell manufacturing capacity, secure the supply chain, and increase automation for rapid project delivery
• RayGen’s technology integrates concentrating solar generation with thermal hydro long-duration energy storage, capable of delivering 17 hours of continuous power
• Strategic deployment agreement with SLB will accelerate RayGen’s path to market and international expansion, with projects planned in South Australia and Eyre Peninsula

RayGen Secures Funding for Accelerating ‘Solar Hydro’ Technology

RayGen, an Australian solar and storage technology firm, has recently announced a significant milestone in its journey towards revolutionizing the energy sector. Read more

• Indian deep tech startups are thriving with incubators and government funding, focusing on innovations like portable MRI and water extraction from air
• Uravu Labs in Bengaluru has developed machines that extract water from the air using renewable energy sources like solar power
• Startups like Saaf Biogas and Voxelgrids Innovation are also making strides in delivering zero-emission gas and developing portable MRI scanners
• Incubators like C-CAMP and Social Alpha play a crucial role in supporting deep tech startups by providing access to experts, facilities, and funding
• Government funding, particularly through agencies like BIRAC, has been instrumental in supporting deep tech startups in India, enabling them to address critical challenges in areas like healthcare and sustainability.

• SunCulture secures $12 million funding to boost solar-powered irrigation in Sub-Saharan Africa
• Aims to equip smallholder farmers with IoT-enabled solar-powered irrigation by 2030
• InfraCo Africa and Savant Group Ltd. partner for strategic equity investment
• SunCulture offers sustainable, cost-effective solar-powered water pumps to reduce reliance on fuel-based pumps
• Company operates under a “Pay-As-You-Grow” model, expanding services to include insurance and soil testing for farmers

Solar Irrigation Funding: SunCulture’s $12 Million Boost

In recent groundbreaking news, SunCulture, a leading Kenyan climate tech startup, has successfully secured a significant $12 million in funding. Read more

• Magnus Metal secures $74 million in Series B funding to advance its Digital Casting™ technology for metal part casting
• The technology combines additive manufacturing with traditional casting, allowing for faster, safer, and more environmentally friendly production of metal parts
• Magnus Metal’s solution addresses challenges in the metal manufacturing industry, such as labor shortages and environmental regulations, while offering more efficient and sustainable processes
• The Digital Casting™ technology leads to improved safety, sustainability, and financial outcomes, reducing raw material usage and production costs
• Magnus Metal’s innovative process allows for the manufacturing of up to 1 ton of solid metals per day, meeting industry standards and elevating quality control in metal casting

Magnus Metal Raises $74 Million in Series B Funding

Magnus Metal, a trailblazer in the industrial, high-volume digital casting for metal alloys, has recently made headlines by securing an impressive $74 million in Series B funding. Read more

• Commerce Department announces $54 million funding opportunity for Small Business R&D in Semiconductor Metrology
• Funding aims to improve U.S. leadership in computer chip manufacturing by addressing production defects and increasing yields
• National Institute of Standards and Technology identifies challenges and priority areas in semiconductor metrology
• SBIR grant funding available for small businesses developing breakthrough advances in material characterization and manufacturing capabilities
• Large federal funding under CHIPS and Science Act allocated to major chip manufacturing companies; efforts to attract investments from overseas chipmakers

Small Business R&D: Commerce Department’s $54 Million Funding Opportunity

In a significant move aimed at advancing measurement technologies critical to semiconductor production, the U.S. Read more

• Bcomp secures $40M funding for sustainable fibre composites, using natural fibres to create lightweight materials for autos, sports, and aerospace industries
• Bcomp’s bio-based composites offer performance benefits and sustainability, with OEMs using them as substitutes for standard materials like carbon, glass, or plastic
• The powerRibs™ and ampliTex™ ranges provide superior lightweight and stiffness potentials, high-vibration damping, and enhanced safety
• Bcomp’s materials contribute to decarbonisation by reducing CO2 emissions across the entire lifecycle of products, with significant weight and plastic content savings in automotive applications
• The funding round, led by EGS Beteiligungen AG, will help Bcomp scale production for commercial opportunities in automotive and expand into new markets in Asia and North America

Sustainable Fibre Composites: Bcomp’s $40M Funding Boost

In the realm of textiles cleantech, the spotlight is shining brightly on Swiss company Bcomp, which has recently secured a substantial $40M in funding for their innovative sustainable fibre composites. Read more

• Averatek relaunches as LQDX.com, focusing on Liquid Metal Inks for Artificial Intelligence, after raising $10M in equity and government funding.
• New directors and executives, including Simon McElrea as CEO, Rozalia Beica as Chief Commercial Officer, and Scott Meikle as Executive Chairman, have been appointed to lead the company.
• The company aims to revolutionize chip interconnect architecture with its advanced materials for AI and high-performance computing applications.

• Queensland expands Solar Rebate initiative with $6 million funding boost to support sustainable energy transition
• Program offers financial assistance for solar power battery systems to make green energy accessible
• Eligible participants must have a minimum 5 KW solar setup and can receive up to $4,000 rebate based on income
• Initiative aligns with Queensland’s goals to reduce CO2 emissions and is part of broader national renewable energy efforts
• Queensland’s proactive solar panel recycling pilot project showcases commitment to responsible renewable energy consumption and waste management

Queensland Expands Solar Rebate Initiative with $6 Million Funding Boost

Queensland’s government is taking significant steps to boost its sustainable energy efforts with an additional investment of $6 million into its Solar Battery Booster program. Read more

• TSSC is developing fiber optic sensor technology for medical applications, seeking funding to advance its endovascular guidewire prototype.
• The company aims to raise $10 million in a Series B round to secure FDA clearance for its first and second-generation devices.
• TSSC has already raised $3.725 million through previous funding rounds and has strategic investors on board.
• The technology’s accuracy is deemed sufficient for initial applications in the endovascular space, with plans for further product enhancements.

• £1 million Government funding boost for 4D imaging technology to help prevent falls in care homes
• Whzan Guardian, a UK-developed monitoring system, uses 4D mapping technology to track movement and detect falls
• Pilots in care homes resulted in significant reductions in falls and ambulance callouts, easing pressure on the NHS
• Redbridge Integrated Care System to test technology after receiving funding from Adult Social Care Technology Fund
• The technology aims to improve care quality, reduce NHS costs, and support social care reform for independent living

Government Funding Boost for 4D Imaging Technology

The recent announcement of a £1 million Government funding boost for 4D imaging technology marks a significant milestone in the quest to prevent falls and enhance care for vulnerable individuals. Read more

• UCalgary to research adoption of digital technologies in agriculture with $1.2 million grant from Government of Alberta
• Research aims to help Alberta’s producers utilize robotics and data analytics for agricultural innovation
• Digital experts, farmers, ranchers, and producers will collaborate on effective technology adoption
• Previous funding supported the Simpson Centre’s Carbon Program until 2023
• Province’s ongoing support highlights commitment to advancing digital tech research in agriculture

Exploring the Impact of Digital Tech Research in Agriculture

The University of Calgary has embarked on a groundbreaking initiative to delve into the realm of digital technology research in agriculture, courtesy of a generous grant from the Government of Alberta. Read more

• TSMC secures $6.6 billion in CHIPS Act funding for construction of third Arizona fab
• Funding addresses delays at existing Arizona fabs
• President Biden aims to boost US semiconductor manufacturing with TSMC investment
• TSMC’s Arizona fabs to produce advanced chips for various industries by 2030
• TSMC to create thousands of jobs in Arizona, with focus on local worker training and development

Arizona Fab Construction: TSMC Secures $6.6B Funding for Third Fab

In a significant development for the semiconductor industry, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) has secured $6.6 billion in CHIPS Act funding from the US Department of Commerce. Read more

• Canada to allocate $600 million for new construction tech including 3D printing
• Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announces funding to make building homes faster, easier, and cheaper
• New technologies like 3D printing can address housing challenges in Canada and other countries
• Budget 2024 includes measures to support innovative housing technologies and materials
• Initiatives aim to streamline home-building processes, bolster rental housing, and standardize home blueprints

Revolutionizing Construction Tech in Canada with $600 Million Investment

In a groundbreaking move, Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has unveiled a visionary plan to revolutionize the construction industry in the country. Read more

• NanoPattern Technologies secures $1.5 million seed funding to upscale production of specialized photopatternable quantum dot ink
• Company founded by Yu Kambe and Dmitri Talapin aims to revolutionize manufacturing of microdisplays for various devices
• Funding from NSF and George Shultz Innovation Fund crucial in attracting investors and advancing technology
• Quantum dots offer superior color quality and energy efficiency, driving growth in the industry
• Challenges in quantum dot industry include material stability, environmental concerns, and integration complexities; companies like NanoPattern investing in solutions

NanoPattern Technologies Secures Seed Funding for Innovative Quantum Dot Ink

NanoPattern Technologies Secures Seed Funding for Innovative Quantum Dot Ink

NanoPattern Technologies, a rising star in the quantum dot sector, has successfully secured a $1.5 million seed investment to propel the production of their cutting-edge photopatternable quantum dot ink. Read more

• UK announces £16.6m funding to bolster semiconductor innovation for green technologies
• Funding through Innovate UK to build semiconductors for power electronics in industries like transport and energy
• New equipment in Newcastle and Strathclyde for researchers and businesses to test and develop semiconductors
• Funding supports National Semiconductor Strategy, aiming to reach net zero emissions by 2050
• Semiconductors crucial for decarbonization in transportation, AI, energy, and data centers, with potential to save significant energy and reduce CO2 emissions

Semiconductor Innovation Funding: UK Injects £16.6m to Drive Green Technologies

The UK semiconductor industry is on the brink of a significant boost with the announcement of a £16.6m funding injection aimed at fostering semiconductor innovation for green technologies. Read more

• Matter Venture Partners raises $300M first fund to invest in ‘hard tech’
• Co-founders Wen Hsieh and Haomiao Huang left Kleiner Perkins to start Matter Venture Partners, focusing on hard tech investments
• The $300 million fund is considered one of the largest “first funds” raised in 2023
• Matter Venture Partners invests in large seed rounds, Series A, and Series B for hard tech startups
• The fund focuses on six key areas within hard tech, aiming to provide foundational technologies for societal trends

Matter Venture Partners Raises $300M First Fund to Invest in ‘Hard Tech’

In the fast-paced world of venture capital, new players are always emerging with innovative strategies and a keen eye for promising technologies. Read more

• Celestial AI, an optical interconnect developer, secures $175 million in fresh funding, with participation from major semiconductor suppliers like Samsung Electronics and Advanced Micro Devices.
• The company’s technology, Photonic Fabric, enables data transport as light instead of electricity, enhancing memory bandwidth and capacity by 25 times while reducing power consumption significantly.
• Photonic Fabric allows for increased HBM3 memory in AI server clusters without the need for additional processors, potentially lowering hardware costs.

• Galway-based accelerator funding: Mbryonics, a Galway-based space-tech company, secures €17.5m from the European Innovation Council (EIC) accelerator for developing optical systems for high-speed, secure communication infrastructures.
• Manufacturing facility: The funding will be used by Mbryonics to establish a manufacturing, assembly, and testing facility for optics and photonics in Ireland within the next five years.
• Technology focus: Mbryonics specializes in wireless optical transport and coherent photonic-optical transceiver technologies used in satellite communications, datacoms, and 5G.

• The EU Commission is funding the first private 5G network at Oulu University Hospital in Finland for wireless wearable technologies.
• Boldyn Networks, WICOAR Technologies, Oulu University Hospital, and the University of Oulu are collaborating on the “Hola 5G Oulu” project.
• The private 5G network aims to enhance patient care through innovative wearable solutions and advanced data sharing techniques.
• The project will initially focus on a patient ward floor and operating theatres to facilitate research and development.

• F-35 Lightning II set to receive $497 million for Pratt & Whitney’s F135 Engine Core Upgrade program
• Upgraded propulsion system aims to enhance durability, expedite jet’s advancement to Block 4 capabilities
• Enhancements to be compatible across all F-35 variants, available to all operators
• Pratt & Whitney committed to providing cutting-edge propulsion technology for air defense superiority
• Investment in F-35 upgrades reflects industry trends, market dominance, and geopolitical power balances

F-35 Propulsion Upgrades: A Game-Changer for the Lightning II

The F-35 Lightning II, a cornerstone of the United States’ air defense strategy, is set to undergo a significant transformation with the introduction of new propulsion upgrades. Read more

• LIS Technologies Inc. secures oversubscribed $1.3 million seed funding round for laser uranium enrichment technology
• Company’s CRISLA technology has diverse applications in nuclear fuel, stable isotopes synthesis, and quantum computing
• Prominent professionals like Jeffrey L. Binder and Randall L. Beatty join the Company to drive growth
• U.S. government shows strong support for domestic uranium enrichment, allocating significant funds
• LIS Technologies Inc.

• Constellium secures DOE funding of up to $75 million for clean energy technologies at its Ravenswood facility in West Virginia
• The funding is part of the DOE’s Industrial Demonstrations Program (IDP) to implement SmartMelt furnaces for reducing carbon emissions
• The project aims to enhance recycling capacity, improve worker safety, and support the local community with new facilities and resources
• Constellium’s CEO, Jean-Marc Germain, expresses gratitude for the support from the DOE and Senator Joe Manchin highlights the investment’s economic impact
• Constellium’s Ravenswood plant, a major aluminum facility employing over 1,200 people, will undergo enhancements over a five-year period with final details pending negotiation

Constellium Secures DOE Funding for Clean Energy Tech

Constellium, a global leader in innovative aluminum products, has recently secured funding from the U.S. Read more