Tuesday, 1 April 2025
26.1 C
Singapore
28.8 C
Thailand
20.6 C
Indonesia
28 C
Philippines

Applied Ventures selects six startups for ASTRA 2024 accelerator programme

Applied Ventures selects six startups for ASTRA 2024, driving innovation in semiconductors, software, supply chain, and advanced manufacturing.

Applied Ventures, LLC, the venture capital arm of Applied Materials, Inc., has announced six promising startups selected for its fifth cohort of the Applied Startup Technology & Research Accelerator (ASTRA) programme. The ASTRA initiative aims to fast-track developments in semiconductor technology, software, supply chain, and advanced manufacturing, addressing some of the deep-tech sectorโ€™s most complex challenges.

The selected startups, based in Australia, India, and Singapore, include Augmentus, Cloudsek, CynLr, Distil, Syenta, and Xyma Analytics. These companies were chosen from a competitive pool of over 60 applicants, presenting cutting-edge solutions across fields such as robotics, cybersecurity, materials science, and sensors. The 2024 ASTRA programme focused on generative AI, semiconductor and display technology, robotics, cybersecurity, and supply chain improvements. Startups were assessed on solution originality, market potential, growth capacity, team strength, and alignment with Applied Materialsโ€™ goals.

Leaders at Applied Ventures praise ASTRA 2024 startups

Om Nalamasu, Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer at Applied Materials, Inc., and President of Applied Ventures, LLC, expressed enthusiasm about the selected startups. โ€œThe startups chosen for ASTRA 2024 represent the future of technological innovation, showcasing groundbreaking solutions that have the potential to transform industries. Their creativity and technical prowess align with Appliedโ€™s efforts to push the boundaries of materials engineering and enable next-generation deep-tech innovations. We anticipate working closely with these trailblazing entrepreneurs, offering them our mentorship, resources and global network to help accelerate their growth opportunities.โ€

Anand Kamannavar, Global Head of Applied Ventures, LLC, and sponsor of ASTRA, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the transformative power of deep-tech solutions. โ€œASTRA 2024 showcases the bold and transformative ideas emerging in deep tech today. This yearโ€™s startups are focused on areas including AI, semiconductors, supply chain and advanced manufacturing, which are critical to future-proofing industries. Our role at Applied Ventures goes beyond capital investment; we intend to work closely with these startups, offering them a platform to scale, connect with our global partners and, ultimately, disrupt markets.โ€

ASTRA 2024 startups to gain mentorship and collaboration

The startups in ASTRA 2024 will benefit from Applied Materialsโ€™ deep expertise in materials engineering, alongside collaboration opportunities within the companyโ€™s business units. They will have access to critical infrastructure, partnerships, and best practices from the industry, allowing them to explore investment avenues, build strategic partnerships, and tackle technological and market challenges more effectively.

The six startups selected for ASTRA 2024 include:

CompanyFocus Area
AugmentusRobotics
CloudsekCybersecurity
CynLrRobotics
DistilSupply Chain
SyentaMaterials
Xyma AnalyticsSensors

Hot this week

Nvidia in talks to acquire AI server rental company Lepton AI

Nvidia is reportedly in talks to acquire Lepton AI in a deal worth several hundred million dollars, expanding into AI-powered server rentals.

Mobvistaโ€™s XMP and AdsPolar recognised as Meta AdTech Business Partners

Mobvistaโ€™s XMP and AdsPolar gain Meta AdTech Partner status, giving users early access to tools, insights, and expert campaign support.

Instagram introduces new speed-up feature for Reels

Instagram now lets you watch Reels at double speed, just like TikTok. The new feature helps you get through longer videos faster and easier.

Microsoft launches AI-powered security agents to tackle cyber threats

Microsoft introduces AI-powered security agents to help businesses fight cyber threats. Learn how these AI agents improve security and reduce workload.

MacBook Pro design overhaul expected in 2026

Apple might release a long-awaited MacBook Pro redesign in 2026, with OLED screens, improved portability, and more features.

This tiny and affordable device upgrades any speaker with Wi-Fi streaming and hi-res audio

The Atonemo Streamplayer is a tiny, affordable device that adds Wi-Fi streaming and hi-res audio support to any speaker with a 3.5mm aux port.

Apple prepares for M5 iPad Pro and MacBook Pro release

Apple is set to launch the M5 iPad Pro and MacBook Pro in late 2024, with the M6 models expected to introduce an in-house modem in 2027.

MacBook Pro design overhaul expected in 2026

Apple might release a long-awaited MacBook Pro redesign in 2026, with OLED screens, improved portability, and more features.

Chinese EV makers urged to expand globally despite tariff challenges

Chinese EV makers are urged to expand globally despite rising tariffs. Industry experts stress the need for overseas production and strategic partnerships.

Related Articles