Imec.xpand, an independent global venture capital fund, announced the launch of a new EUR300 million (US$ 323 million) fund aimed at accelerating the growth of transformative semiconductor and nanotechnology innovations.

Established in partnership with imec, a research and innovation hub specializing in nanoelectronics, this fund seeks to invest in startups poised to disrupt global markets within their respective sectors. With a focus on propelling semiconductor innovation beyond conventional applications, it aims to drive forward next-generation technologies that are a decade ahead of their time. Operating globally and across all developmental stages, imec.xpand endeavors to translate semiconductor and nanotechnology breakthroughs into commercially viable solutions. With an emphasis on harnessing imec's expertise, the fund targets pioneering technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), augmented reality/virtual reality (AR/VR), and photonics.

Since its launch in 2017 with imec's backing, imec.xpand has garnered strong support from international financial and strategic investors. With a proven track record of investing in transformative companies, imec.xpand's unique position in the global venture capital landscape, particularly in the U.S., facilitates attracting potential co-investors for its portfolio firms. Imec.xpand's endorsement often serves as a financial catalyst, enabling startups to secure additional funding from other investors. To date, imec.xpand has invested in 23 companies, collectively raising nearly EUR 1.5 billion in financing and boasting two unicorns.