

ChipStart UK @ Cardiff - Compound Semiconductors: Powering, Connecting and Sensing the Future
Forming, Storming, Norming & Performing for Semiconductor Startups
Powering, Connecting and Sensing the Future
28th October, Cardiff University
Silicon Catalyst is thrilled to host the latest edition of our renowned FSNP Semiconductor Startups series, themed on the strength and innovation around Compound Semiconductors.
We are hosting in collaboration with Cardiff University’s Optoelectronics and RF departments, and we are shining the spotlight on compound semiconductors and the world-class innovation emerging from Cardiff and the South Wales semiconductor cluster.
Join us for an afternoon of big ideas, breakthrough technologies, startup innovation and high-value networking across the UK semiconductor ecosystem.
Meet ChipStart UK’s newest cohort of 11 exciting and ambitious semiconductor startups
Discover cutting-edge Cardiff University research, from VCSELs for quantum technologies to GaN innovations for security and high-speed connectivity
Hear the Welsh semiconductor story and how South Wales has developed into a globally significant semiconductor cluster
Connect with founders, researchers, investors and industry leaders from across the UK ecosystem
Join the debate on what comes next and what it will take for the UK and South Wales to remain globally competitive
From power and connectivity to sensing, quantum technologies and next-generation applications, together we’ll explore where compound semiconductor innovation is heading - and connect the people and companies helping to take it there.
Where: Translational Research Hub, Cardiff University, Maindy Road, Cardiff CF24 4HQ
When: 12:30-17:30, Wednesday 28th OctoberAgenda:
12:30: Registration & Networking Lunch
13:30: Welcome & Opening Remarks - Prof Carrie Lear (Cardiff University), Sean Redmond (Silicon Catalyst.UK)
13:50: Keynote: Sam Evans (Vishay Intertechnology)
14:10: Keynote: Overview of Cardiff Research - Peter Smowton (Institute for Compound Semiconductors)
14:25: Keynote: The Welsh Semiconductor Story: From Heritage to Global Leadership - Howard Rupprecht (CS Connected)
14:40: Startup Showcase: ChipStart UK Cohort #4
15:40: Coffee & Networking Break
16:10: Cardiff University Research Showcase
VCSELs for Quantum Technology - Dr Samuel Shutts
Gallium Nitride (GaN) Innovations in Security and High-Speed Connectivity - Prof Khaled Elgaid16:30: Keynote: Joshua Western (Space Forge)
16:45: Panel Discussion: Building a World-Class Semiconductor Ecosystem
Caroline O'Brien (CSA Catapult)
Peter Smowton (Cardiff University)
Wyn Meredith (CSconnected)
Rodney Pelzel (IQE)
Joshua Western (Space Forge)17:30: Concluding Remarks & Close (Sean Redmond)
For those who want to continue discussions after the event, we will be retiring to a nearby pub (probably The Woodville) after the event finishes.
Places are limited and we expect this event to be fully subscribed, with a waitlist in operation, so please register your attendance as soon as possible to secure your place.