VLSID
VLSID

Startup Forum @VLSID 2026

Igniting Innovation. Powering the Future.
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Abstract Submission Deadline: DD-MM-YYY

Acceptance to be sent out on: DD-MM-YYY

Enquiries: Contact us

Objective:

To provide a dedicated platform for  VLSI & embedded  startups to showcase their innovations, connect with industry leaders, investors, and researchers, and foster collaboration opportunities that contribute to the growth of the ecosystem.

Target Audience

  • Early-stage and established startups in semiconductor, VLSI and embedded system domains. Please refer startup definition here.
  • Entrepreneurs, innovators, and engineers working on VLSI design, embedded systems, chip manufacturing, and related technologies.
  • Investors, venture capitalists, and industry mentors.
  • Academia, R&D organizations, and corporates interested in collaboration and technology commercialization.

Key Theme

  1. Design and Innovation: Focusing on cutting-edge developments in embedded design, chip design, SoCs, Ips ,RISC-V and ASICs.
  2. Ecosystem and Supply Chain: Addressing challenges related to semiconductor manufacturing, packaging, and supply chain sustainability.
  3. EDA Tools & Automation: Startups working on Electronic Design Automation (EDA) tools for design and verification.
  4. Emerging Technologies: Startups exploring AI/ML-driven semiconductor innovations, quantum computing, edge AI, 5G, and beyond.
  5. Connected products: IoT products for automation in the home, healthcare, manufacturing, transportation, smart cities, agriculture and other domains.
  6. Sustainability & Energy Efficiency: Innovations that reduce power consumption and increase sustainability in chip design and production.
  7. IP-based Models: Startups offering IPs, building blocks, and chiplets for complex SoC designs
  8. Manufacturing, Testing, packaging
  9. Manufacturing and Test Equipment: Startups offering designs for equipment used in semiconductor value chain.

Sessions:

  • Startup Pitch Competition
  • Masterclasses: Spread across the days of the conference
  • Networking/Mentoring Sessions – Startup Lounge

Startup Pitch Competition:

  • Startups may apply through this link: 
  • Selected startups will be invited to the pitch competition.
  • Selection criteria:
    • Innovation and uniqueness of the technology.
    • Commercial viability and scalability.
    • Team expertise and background.
    • Potential for industry impact and disruption.
  • A jury comprising industry experts, VCs, and academic researchers will judge the pitch competition. 
  • Judging criteria: Technology innovation, market need, business model, scalability, and commercialization strategy.
  • Visibility to all finalists to VC’s, to Potential partners etc.,  Trophies & Prizes for Winners!

Masterclasses:

We plan about four sessions in the 3 hours available. The topics would be from the ‘Key Themes’ mentioned above, plus the following one:

“Scaling a VLSI Startup”

Industry leaders, successful entrepreneurs, and VCs share their insights on the semiconductor startup ecosystem and how startups can leverage opportunities in design and manufacturing.

  • Experts from the semiconductor industry and incubators offer guidance on challenges faced by startups, from prototyping to mass production.
  • Focus on funding strategies, scaling operations, and entering global markets.

Registration will be opening soon !

Networking Sessions- Startup Lounge:

  • Structured networking opportunities where startups can engage with potential investors, industry mentors, and research collaborators.
  • Themed networking areas: VLSI design, AI/ML in semiconductors, supply chain, etc.
  • A dedicated area for startups to meet with industry mentors, investors, and experts in an informal setting.
  • Pre-arranged and on-the-spot mentor meetings where startups can seek advice on technical challenges, business strategy, scaling operations, and funding.
  • Mentor profiles available prior to the event, allowing startups to select relevant mentors for their needs (e.g., experts in IP, design automation, or manufacturing).
  • Lounge also facilitates discussions on industry trends and potential collaboration opportunities.

Registration will be opening soon !

Expected Outcomes:

  • Strengthened semiconductor startup ecosystem through collaboration and investment.
  • Acceleration of VLSI innovation in key areas such as AI, quantum computing, IoT, and sustainable chip design.
  • Enhanced networking and partnership opportunities between startups, academia, and corporates.
  • Tangible business outcomes such as new investment deals, R&D collaborations, and technology licensing agreements.