In a major boost for India’s growing semiconductor ecosystem, two Bangalore-based startups — Makr Microsystems and Nextoar — have been named among the 35 global semifinalists in the SEMI Startups for Sustainable Semiconductors (S³) program for 2025.
The announcement was made by SEMI, the global association for electronics manufacturing and design, which has made sustainability a key focus across its global initiatives. The two Indian ventures will now move to the virtual semifinal pitch round, scheduled from July 31 to August 1, competing for a spot in the finals at SEMICON West 2025 in Phoenix, Arizona.
Innovation with a Green Focus
Makr Microsystems is gaining global attention for its work in acoustic atomic force microscopy (Acoustic-AFM) — a technology that allows non-destructive, nanoscale imaging of subsurface structures within semiconductor wafers and materials. Unlike traditional surface imaging methods, this approach enables the early detection of defects and enhances quality control. The result? Less waste, more precision, and better use of materials — all essential for sustainable chip manufacturing.
Nextoar, meanwhile, is utilising artificial intelligence to transform the way people work in chip fabs. The startup has built a smart AI-powered training platform for technicians, engineers, maintenance staff, and testing teams. Through adaptive learning and real-time insights, it helps teams spot problems, reduce errors, and boost efficiency on the factory floor — a step toward making semiconductor fabs smarter and greener.
About the S³ Program
Launched in 2022, the SEMI S³ initiative aims to spotlight startups that are helping to make the semiconductor industry more sustainable across manufacturing, materials, data centres, and chip design. The program connects innovators with venture capital teams, tech scouts, and sustainability leaders from some of the world’s top semiconductor companies.
Over the years, S³ has become a launchpad for startups, helping them land pilot projects, industry collaborations, and funding opportunities.
The 2025 cohort features startups from around the world. The United States leads the pack with the highest number of semifinalists, followed by strong entries from Europe, especially Germany and the Netherlands. Asia also stands out, with startups from Taiwan, South Korea, Japan, China, and India, represented this year by Makr Microsystems and Nextoar.
SEMI noted that this year’s entries showed strong innovation in sustainable manufacturing, energy-efficient data centres, and the use of AI to optimise chip processes.
India on the Semiconductor Sustainability Map
The selection of Makr Microsystems and Nextoar highlights India’s growing role not just in chip design and manufacturing, but also in sustainability-led innovation.
Advancing to the S³ semifinals gives both startups a chance to gain global exposure, mentorship, and possibly collaborate with industry leaders focused on reducing the sector’s environmental impact. As the global push for greener manufacturing gains momentum, the success of these two Indian ventures underscores the country’s growing influence in shaping the future of sustainable semiconductors.
