Applied Ventures

Applied Ventures, LLC is the venture capital fund of Applied Materials, Inc., (NASDAQ: AMAT), the global leader in nanomanufacturing technology solutions for the electronics industry with a broad portfolio of innovative equipment, service, and software products. At Applied Materials, they apply nanomanufacturing technology to improve the way people live. Applied Ventures invests in early-stage technology companies that promise to deliver high growth and exceptional returns. Their charter is to profitably invest in companies that provide a window on technologies that advance or complement Applied Materials' core expertise. Their investments help develop technologies and markets that provide natural extensions to Applied Materials' core business and stimulate the growth of applications for semiconductors, displays, solar PV, and related products and services.

Anand Kamannavar

Founder and Global Head

Jackie Kossmann

Investor

Frank Lee

Senior Investment Director

Past deals in Semiconductor

Scintil Photonics

Venture Round in 2022
SCINTIL Photonics is a fabless company that develops silicon photonic integrated circuits. SCINTIL solutions combine the best of Silicon (Si) and Indium Phosphide (InP) materials using wafer-scale bonding of InP on Si and rely on commercial silicon foundry processes to build fully integrated photonic circuits (comprising multi-wavelength lasers, waveguides, wavelength filters, and photodetectors).

Syntiant

Series D in 2022
Syntiant develops advanced neuromorphic semiconductors that facilitate the transition of artificial intelligence and machine learning from cloud environments to edge devices. The company's innovative chip solutions integrate deep learning with semiconductor design to create ultra-low-power, high-performance deep neural network processors. These processors are tailored for always-on applications in battery-powered devices, including smartphones, smart speakers, earbuds, hearing aids, and laptops. By enabling the deployment of AI technology in various sensor, voice, and video applications, Syntiant empowers developers to enhance the functionality of nearly any battery-operated product.

Ideal Semiconductor Devices

Venture Round in 2021
iDEAL Semiconductor is a fabless semiconductor company. They are focused on delivering break-through levels of power efficiency utilizing their new proprietary, patented technology which affords advanced system designers a new palette of performance to deliver today's and tomorrow’s industry-leading new products in all the hottest segments.

Antaios

Series A in 2020
Antaios specializes in the development of advanced memory technology aimed at addressing the increasing power demands in semiconductor systems. By leveraging the spin-orbit torque phenomenon, the company offers a solution that combines high speed and non-volatility. This innovative approach enables chip manufacturers to optimize the performance of computers and smartphones while significantly reducing power consumption. Antaios is committed to bringing this technology to market, facilitating improvements in advanced computing for its clients.

Ayar Labs

Series B in 2020
Ayar Labs, Inc. specializes in the development of optical interconnect technology, focusing on high-density electronic-photonic chiplets and lasers designed to enhance data transmission capabilities. Its flagship product, TeraPHY, is a monolithic in-package optical I/O solution that enables high bandwidth, low latency, and power-efficient short-reach interconnects, making it suitable for applications in artificial intelligence, high-performance computing, cloud computing, telecommunications, and aerospace. The company's innovative approach leverages industry-standard silicon processing techniques to create optical interconnect chiplets that replace traditional electrical-based I/O, addressing performance and efficiency challenges in the semiconductor and computing industries. By optimizing data movement within AI systems, Ayar Labs aims to alleviate compute and bandwidth bottlenecks associated with complex large language models, thereby maximizing computational efficiency while minimizing costs and power consumption. Established in 2015 and headquartered in Emeryville, California, Ayar Labs also has an office in Santa Clara, California.

Exo

Series B in 2020
Exo is a medical device startup focused on developing a handheld ultrasound platform for imaging and therapeutic applications. The company aims to provide affordable and user-friendly medical imaging solutions for healthcare professionals globally. By integrating advanced nano-materials, innovative sensor technologies, and sophisticated signal processing with the cost efficiencies of semiconductor manufacturing, Exo significantly lowers the costs associated with medical imaging. This technology allows healthcare providers to make vital, real-time decisions that enhance patient outcomes. Exo's commitment to high-quality, accessible imaging represents a significant advancement in medical technology, making effective diagnostic tools available at an unprecedented price point.

Syntiant

Series C in 2020
Syntiant develops advanced neuromorphic semiconductors that facilitate the transition of artificial intelligence and machine learning from cloud environments to edge devices. The company's innovative chip solutions integrate deep learning with semiconductor design to create ultra-low-power, high-performance deep neural network processors. These processors are tailored for always-on applications in battery-powered devices, including smartphones, smart speakers, earbuds, hearing aids, and laptops. By enabling the deployment of AI technology in various sensor, voice, and video applications, Syntiant empowers developers to enhance the functionality of nearly any battery-operated product.

Inpria

Series C in 2020
Inpria Corporation is a company based in Corvallis, Oregon, that specializes in the design, development, and manufacturing of EUV metal oxide photoresists for the semiconductor industry. Founded in 2007, Inpria is recognized for its innovative approach to extending semiconductor lithography through inorganic photoresists and thin films for nanoscale patterning. The company's patented photo-condensed molecular oxides allow for the direct deposition of atomically smooth and dense metal oxide films from solution, which can be photopatterned for advanced applications. Inpria's photoresists are meticulously designed to meet rigorous industry specifications, addressing key factors such as resolution, sensitivity, and line width roughness, while integrating seamlessly into manufacturing processes. This holistic approach provides customers with a comprehensive solution that includes photoresists, developers, and related materials.

PlayNitride

Series E in 2019
PlayNitride Inc. is a Taiwanese company specializing in the research, development, design, and manufacture of MicroLED products and solutions. Founded in 2014 and headquartered in Tainan City, the company utilizes its proprietary PixeLED display technology to deliver high-performance displays characterized by superior resolution, contrast ratio, aperture ratio, rapid response times, and low power consumption. In addition to MicroLED displays, PlayNitride produces UV LED curing systems, offering various cooling options and providing comprehensive design services across mechanical, optical, electrical, and thermal domains. The company also markets the PLAYBEACON series, which integrates LED devices with iBeacon functionality. With operations primarily in Taiwan and additional presence in Korea and other regions, PlayNitride focuses on advancing display technology and developing innovative solutions for various applications.

Spin Memory

Series B in 2018
Spin Memory, Inc. specializes in the development of spin-transfer torque magnetoresistive random access memory (STT-MRAM) technologies and products. Founded in 2007 and headquartered in Fremont, California, the company aims to address the scaling and power challenges faced by memory devices. By providing solutions that replace on-chip SRAM and various non-volatile memories in both embedded and stand-alone applications, Spin Memory enhances speed, power efficiency, and endurance. The underlying technology, known as orthogonal spin transfer MRAM, was initially developed through a collaboration between Allied Minds and New York University, with significant contributions from Professor Andrew Kent. Spin Memory's innovations lead to faster switching times and lower power consumption, without the endurance and data retention limitations found in other implementations of STT-MRAM.

Syntiant

Series B in 2018
Syntiant develops advanced neuromorphic semiconductors that facilitate the transition of artificial intelligence and machine learning from cloud environments to edge devices. The company's innovative chip solutions integrate deep learning with semiconductor design to create ultra-low-power, high-performance deep neural network processors. These processors are tailored for always-on applications in battery-powered devices, including smartphones, smart speakers, earbuds, hearing aids, and laptops. By enabling the deployment of AI technology in various sensor, voice, and video applications, Syntiant empowers developers to enhance the functionality of nearly any battery-operated product.

Exo

Series A in 2017
Exo is a medical device startup focused on developing a handheld ultrasound platform for imaging and therapeutic applications. The company aims to provide affordable and user-friendly medical imaging solutions for healthcare professionals globally. By integrating advanced nano-materials, innovative sensor technologies, and sophisticated signal processing with the cost efficiencies of semiconductor manufacturing, Exo significantly lowers the costs associated with medical imaging. This technology allows healthcare providers to make vital, real-time decisions that enhance patient outcomes. Exo's commitment to high-quality, accessible imaging represents a significant advancement in medical technology, making effective diagnostic tools available at an unprecedented price point.

Point Engineering

Series A in 2017
Point Engineering is a leading manufacturer specializing in precision parts and materials through advanced machining and surface treatment technologies. The company focuses on producing electronic core components tailored for high-tech industries, including TFT-LCD parts and semiconductors. Its product offerings encompass display parts, CVD parts, dry etch parts, semiconductor components, metal frame products, and IMS products. By leveraging AAO technology, Point Engineering provides clients with unique MEMS services, ensuring high-quality standards and innovation in its manufacturing processes.

Electroninks

Series A in 2017
Electroninks Incorporated, founded in 2013 as a spinout from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, specializes in developing advanced conductive inks and related products for the consumer electronics sector. The company employs a team of materials scientists and formulation experts to create innovative inks based on small-molecule chemistries, which facilitate the production of pure metallic films. These films can be printed using digital methods and standard roll-to-roll techniques, allowing for high-resolution applications. Electroninks' formulations are particle-free and contain no binders, enabling low-temperature annealing and superior performance compared to traditional nanoparticle technologies. Their product offerings include metal complex conductive inks, dielectric inks, and resistor inks aimed at enhancing semiconductor packaging, displays, and passive electronics, ultimately helping clients improve performance, reliability, and reduce manufacturing costs.

Inpria

Series B in 2017
Inpria Corporation is a company based in Corvallis, Oregon, that specializes in the design, development, and manufacturing of EUV metal oxide photoresists for the semiconductor industry. Founded in 2007, Inpria is recognized for its innovative approach to extending semiconductor lithography through inorganic photoresists and thin films for nanoscale patterning. The company's patented photo-condensed molecular oxides allow for the direct deposition of atomically smooth and dense metal oxide films from solution, which can be photopatterned for advanced applications. Inpria's photoresists are meticulously designed to meet rigorous industry specifications, addressing key factors such as resolution, sensitivity, and line width roughness, while integrating seamlessly into manufacturing processes. This holistic approach provides customers with a comprehensive solution that includes photoresists, developers, and related materials.

Lumiode

Series A in 2017
Lumiode, Inc. is a semiconductor company based in New York City, specializing in the development and manufacture of high-brightness microdisplays for augmented reality and other display applications. Founded in 2012, Lumiode focuses on creating innovative solutions for head-worn devices, aiming to enhance visual experiences in various settings. The company is supported by venture backing from IP Group and Applied Ventures, positioning it for growth in the rapidly evolving display technology market.

Exo

Venture Round in 2017
Exo is a medical device startup focused on developing a handheld ultrasound platform for imaging and therapeutic applications. The company aims to provide affordable and user-friendly medical imaging solutions for healthcare professionals globally. By integrating advanced nano-materials, innovative sensor technologies, and sophisticated signal processing with the cost efficiencies of semiconductor manufacturing, Exo significantly lowers the costs associated with medical imaging. This technology allows healthcare providers to make vital, real-time decisions that enhance patient outcomes. Exo's commitment to high-quality, accessible imaging represents a significant advancement in medical technology, making effective diagnostic tools available at an unprecedented price point.

Electroninks

Series A in 2016
Electroninks Incorporated, founded in 2013 as a spinout from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, specializes in developing advanced conductive inks and related products for the consumer electronics sector. The company employs a team of materials scientists and formulation experts to create innovative inks based on small-molecule chemistries, which facilitate the production of pure metallic films. These films can be printed using digital methods and standard roll-to-roll techniques, allowing for high-resolution applications. Electroninks' formulations are particle-free and contain no binders, enabling low-temperature annealing and superior performance compared to traditional nanoparticle technologies. Their product offerings include metal complex conductive inks, dielectric inks, and resistor inks aimed at enhancing semiconductor packaging, displays, and passive electronics, ultimately helping clients improve performance, reliability, and reduce manufacturing costs.

Inpria

Venture Round in 2014
Inpria Corporation is a company based in Corvallis, Oregon, that specializes in the design, development, and manufacturing of EUV metal oxide photoresists for the semiconductor industry. Founded in 2007, Inpria is recognized for its innovative approach to extending semiconductor lithography through inorganic photoresists and thin films for nanoscale patterning. The company's patented photo-condensed molecular oxides allow for the direct deposition of atomically smooth and dense metal oxide films from solution, which can be photopatterned for advanced applications. Inpria's photoresists are meticulously designed to meet rigorous industry specifications, addressing key factors such as resolution, sensitivity, and line width roughness, while integrating seamlessly into manufacturing processes. This holistic approach provides customers with a comprehensive solution that includes photoresists, developers, and related materials.

Persimmon Technologies

Series B in 2014
Persimmon Technologies Corporation, based in Wakefield, Massachusetts, develops, manufactures, and distributes advanced atmospheric and vacuum robotics, along with automation systems, primarily for the semiconductor, data storage, LED, OLED, solar, and flat panel display equipment markets. Founded in 2010, the company serves as a sales representative for Nidec Sankyo Corporation's atmospheric robotic products in the United States. With a focus on innovation, Persimmon Technologies offers vacuum robotics that provide distinct advantages through superior mechanical design, control technology, and advanced software. As of March 2017, it operates as a subsidiary of Sumitomo Heavy Industries, Ltd.

Inpria

Venture Round in 2014
Inpria Corporation is a company based in Corvallis, Oregon, that specializes in the design, development, and manufacturing of EUV metal oxide photoresists for the semiconductor industry. Founded in 2007, Inpria is recognized for its innovative approach to extending semiconductor lithography through inorganic photoresists and thin films for nanoscale patterning. The company's patented photo-condensed molecular oxides allow for the direct deposition of atomically smooth and dense metal oxide films from solution, which can be photopatterned for advanced applications. Inpria's photoresists are meticulously designed to meet rigorous industry specifications, addressing key factors such as resolution, sensitivity, and line width roughness, while integrating seamlessly into manufacturing processes. This holistic approach provides customers with a comprehensive solution that includes photoresists, developers, and related materials.

Semprius

Series C in 2011
Semprius, Inc. is a company focused on the design, development, and manufacture of high concentration photovoltaic (HCPV) solar modules aimed at generating solar energy. Based in Durham, North Carolina, Semprius utilizes a unique micro-transfer printing technology that enables the production of high-performance and reliable CPV modules at a low cost, making solar power generation economically feasible in sunny and arid climates. The company’s products are targeted for utility, commercial, industrial, and government applications and are distributed through integrators and engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) firms. In addition to its solar applications, Semprius is licensing its micro-transfer printing technology for non-solar uses, which can facilitate the development of innovative products such as flat-panel displays, flexible electronics, and large-area sensors. Founded in 2005, Semprius continues to advance its technology to enable scalable production and broad applications in the semiconductor industry.

Adesto Technologies

Venture Round in 2010
Adesto Technologies is a prominent provider of application-specific semiconductors and embedded systems tailored for the Internet of Things (IoT). The company's innovative technology supports over 5,000 customers globally, enabling them to develop unique solutions across various sectors, including industrial, consumer, medical, and communications markets. Adesto's extensive portfolio features semiconductor and embedded technologies optimized for connected IoT devices, such as IoT edge servers, routers, and communication modules, as well as analog, digital, and non-volatile memory technologies. Additionally, the company offers software, development kits, and system solutions designed to accelerate time to market for its clients. Through its deep expertise and proprietary intellectual property, Adesto empowers customers to enhance the efficiency, reliability, and security of their IoT systems, facilitating intelligent control of devices in an increasingly connected world.

Tessolve Semiconductor

Series C in 2010
Tessolve is a semiconductor IC test engineering solution provider for logic, high-speed digital, RF, analog, power, mixed-signal and memory technologies, including System-On-a-Chip (SoC) or System-In-Package (SiP) devices that go into wireless, broadband, network / fiber optics, and other consumer markets. We offer best-in-class test services to semiconductor companies through technical excellence and operational expertise. Our test floor is versatile, enhancing continuously with adaptation of new test technology, resulting in time and cost reduction, and improvement in overall productivity. Tessolve has invested in multiple Automatic Test Equipment (ATE) and supporting equipment to meet the growing complexity in device test requirements. We engage our experienced test consultants from the preliminary stages of your product development cycle all the way to final stages of successful tape out. Our involvement in your device development cycle reduces your burden, time and cost. Tessolve is probably the only independent company with over 350+ test engineering resources offering total solutions for IC test engineering. Tessolve is not affiliated to any ATE company and therefore ensures customer objectives of lowest cost of test and maximum test coverage, which are met by choosing the most optimal test systems. Our independence from sub-cons permits us to transfer ownership of all IP and hardware to you, the end customer, giving you the freedom to choose the most optimal and best performing sub-con for production ramp up.

Enphase Energy

Venture Round in 2010
Enphase Energy, Inc. is a global energy technology company specializing in home energy solutions for the solar photovoltaic industry. Founded in 2006 and headquartered in Fremont, California, the company designs, develops, manufactures, and sells innovative products including semiconductor-based microinverters that convert energy at the individual solar module level. Enphase combines these microinverters with proprietary networking and software technologies to offer energy monitoring and control services. The company's portfolio also includes AC battery storage systems, communication gateways, and cloud-based monitoring services. Enphase sells its solutions to a range of customers, including solar distributors, large installers, original equipment manufacturers, strategic partners, and directly to homeowners. Additionally, Enphase provides training resources for solar and storage installers through Enphase University. The company focuses on improving the performance and reliability of solar energy systems, aiming to simplify solar power usage and facilitate a transition to renewable energy.

Translarity

Series B in 2009
Translarity is a pioneering company in the semiconductor wafer test sector, specializing in advanced probe card solutions. Based in Silicon Valley, the company has introduced a disruptive full-wafer testing approach that emphasizes low cost, high performance, and reduced cycle times. In 2017, Translarity expanded its capabilities through the acquisition of BucklingBeam, enhancing its product offerings with a comprehensive range of probe card solutions, including full probe cards and vertical probe head technologies. The company's innovative Space Translator™ technology positions it well to meet the fast-evolving demands of probe technologies. With a strong management team and significant backing from financial investors, Translarity has built a robust innovation pipeline and intellectual property portfolio, boasting over 45 issued patents and more than 50 additional patents filed. The company aims to address critical challenges in semiconductor testing, facilitating efficient wafer-level and advanced package tests in the industry.

Enphase Energy

Venture Round in 2009
Enphase Energy, Inc. is a global energy technology company specializing in home energy solutions for the solar photovoltaic industry. Founded in 2006 and headquartered in Fremont, California, the company designs, develops, manufactures, and sells innovative products including semiconductor-based microinverters that convert energy at the individual solar module level. Enphase combines these microinverters with proprietary networking and software technologies to offer energy monitoring and control services. The company's portfolio also includes AC battery storage systems, communication gateways, and cloud-based monitoring services. Enphase sells its solutions to a range of customers, including solar distributors, large installers, original equipment manufacturers, strategic partners, and directly to homeowners. Additionally, Enphase provides training resources for solar and storage installers through Enphase University. The company focuses on improving the performance and reliability of solar energy systems, aiming to simplify solar power usage and facilitate a transition to renewable energy.

Innolume

Series C in 2008
Innolume GmbH is a manufacturer of advanced laser diodes based in Dortmund, Germany. Established in 2002, the company specializes in a wide array of optoelectronic devices, including single-mode and broad-area laser diodes, comb-lasers, and semiconductor optical amplifiers. Innolume's products are designed for various applications, such as Raman amplification, optical interconnects, and medical and industrial uses. Notably, the company has developed a novel comb laser light engine that facilitates economical wavelength-division multiplexing for short-reach optical connections in computing environments. This innovation enhances efficiency by reducing the need for multiple lasers and underutilized fiber, significantly lowering costs and power consumption. Innolume has also received recognition for its temperature-independent distributed feedback laser, which has the potential to impact the future of data communication.

Actacell

Series A in 2008
ActaCell, Inc. is a technology start-up focused on commercializing advanced lithium-ion battery technology developed at The University of Texas at Austin. The company's innovations aim to provide significantly longer cycle life at a lower cost while prioritizing safety. ActaCell's energy storage solutions utilize a nanocomposite alloy anode material as a replacement for traditional graphite, enhancing efficiency and longevity in high-energy applications. The company secured $5.8 million in Series A financing in July 2008, led by DFJ Mercury and supported by investors such as Google.org's RechargeIT program and Applied Ventures, LLC. These funds are intended to recruit essential technical talent and further advance ActaCell's battery technology for commercial use.

Adesto Technologies

Series A in 2008
Adesto Technologies is a prominent provider of application-specific semiconductors and embedded systems tailored for the Internet of Things (IoT). The company's innovative technology supports over 5,000 customers globally, enabling them to develop unique solutions across various sectors, including industrial, consumer, medical, and communications markets. Adesto's extensive portfolio features semiconductor and embedded technologies optimized for connected IoT devices, such as IoT edge servers, routers, and communication modules, as well as analog, digital, and non-volatile memory technologies. Additionally, the company offers software, development kits, and system solutions designed to accelerate time to market for its clients. Through its deep expertise and proprietary intellectual property, Adesto empowers customers to enhance the efficiency, reliability, and security of their IoT systems, facilitating intelligent control of devices in an increasingly connected world.

Semprius

Series A in 2007
Semprius, Inc. is a company focused on the design, development, and manufacture of high concentration photovoltaic (HCPV) solar modules aimed at generating solar energy. Based in Durham, North Carolina, Semprius utilizes a unique micro-transfer printing technology that enables the production of high-performance and reliable CPV modules at a low cost, making solar power generation economically feasible in sunny and arid climates. The company’s products are targeted for utility, commercial, industrial, and government applications and are distributed through integrators and engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) firms. In addition to its solar applications, Semprius is licensing its micro-transfer printing technology for non-solar uses, which can facilitate the development of innovative products such as flat-panel displays, flexible electronics, and large-area sensors. Founded in 2005, Semprius continues to advance its technology to enable scalable production and broad applications in the semiconductor industry.

Grandis

Venture Round in 2005
Grandis is a pioneer in the development and licensing of innovative non-volatile memory solutions based on advanced research in spintronics. The company specializes in spin transfer torque random access memory products, which are designed to store, manipulate, and transmit information for the semiconductor industry. Grandis licenses these products to technology companies engaged in the design, development, and manufacturing of consumer electronics, personal computers, as well as equipment used in automotive, medical, military, and space applications. The company's mission is to facilitate the creation of revolutionary products through the application of the electron's spin.

FlexLight Networks

Series C in 2003
Founded in September 2000 by a dynamic team of high-powered and experienced optical network specialists, FlexLight's suite of optical access products leverages leading-edge technology to deliver a solution that conquers last-mile bandwidth bottlenecks and optimizes service flexibility. FlexLight's seed funding of $9 million comes from America's Coral Ventures, a private venture capital firm that manages more than $300 million of capital in five funds, and from Israel's Concord Venture Capital Fund, a firm that offers exceptional entrepreneurs the capital, guidance and industry contacts they need to become leaders in their field.

M-Stream

Series A in 2003
M-Stream develops chips for improved reception of voice, video, music and heavy multimedia for second, 2.5, and third-generation cellular communication systems. The start-up raised $1.5 million in its first round of financing in March 2003, at which time it also signed its first agreement with Broadcom. Aside from the $750,000 injection, the deal included an option to buy the company depending on its reaching certain goals.

Grandis

Series A in 2003
Grandis is a pioneer in the development and licensing of innovative non-volatile memory solutions based on advanced research in spintronics. The company specializes in spin transfer torque random access memory products, which are designed to store, manipulate, and transmit information for the semiconductor industry. Grandis licenses these products to technology companies engaged in the design, development, and manufacturing of consumer electronics, personal computers, as well as equipment used in automotive, medical, military, and space applications. The company's mission is to facilitate the creation of revolutionary products through the application of the electron's spin.
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