Navigating the Semiconductor Revolution Fundings: Fourth Power, Doroni, Helicity Space
13 December 2023 - A Weekly Publication by New North Ventures
We are excited to share the latest episode of our Securing Our Future podcast series, featuring eFabless CEO, Mike Wishart. Mike's extensive background, ranging from investment banking to the semiconductor industry, brings a unique perspective to the conversation.
In this episode, Mike and our host, Jeremy Hitchcock, tackle the core challenges in chip design. Mike emphasizes the rising complexities and costs associated with innovation in this rapidly evolving field. The discussion also unveils eFabless' mission to democratize chip design, fostering collaboration among a diverse community of designers and innovators.
The conversation takes a deep dive into the Chips Act, a significant government initiative addressing challenges in the semiconductor industry. Mike shares his insights on its potential impact and underscores the importance of sustained efforts to reshape the industry's economic dynamics. The parallels drawn between the semiconductor industry and the Hollywood studio model add a unique dimension to the discussion, highlighting the need for transformative approaches.
As the episode concludes, Mike encourages a focus on fostering innovation in the semiconductor space. He advocates for exploring opportunities where innovation extends beyond traditional chip design. Tune in to this enlightening episode and gain valuable insights into the challenges, opportunities, and future directions of the semiconductor industry. Listen wherever you stream your podcasts or below on Spotify:
In this special spotlight, we'd like to express our dedicated support for the SkillBridge program through our esteemed portfolio company, Headlamp. At the heart of Headlamp's mission is a commitment to empowering military veterans during their transition to civilian careers. They actively bridge the gap between employers and veterans, utilizing the DOD SkillBridge program to facilitate seamless transitions. Headlamp's Career Liaison Officers (C-LNOs) play a pivotal role in crafting SkillBridge opportunities that pave the way for veterans to embark on successful civilian careers.
As the year draws to a close, we want to take a moment to recognize and express our gratitude to our own outstanding fellows—Omar, Nick, Seth, and Stephen. Their dedication and hard work within the New North Venture community have made a significant impact, and we appreciate the valuable contributions they've brought to our endeavors.
For veterans keen on exploring these opportunities, we encourage you to discover more at www.myheadlamp.com. It's not just a career transition; it's a journey of empowerment, and Headlamp is here to guide the way.
The U.S. Is Not Yet Ready for the Era of ‘Great Power’ Conflict
The U.S. is grappling with a shift from counterinsurgency to addressing great-power competition, particularly with China and Russia.
A simulated wargame exposed critical vulnerabilities, showcasing that American combat capabilities were rapidly compromised in the face of a Chinese attempt to control the South China Sea.
Obstacles to military readiness include a focus on Middle East conflicts, unsuccessful big-ticket weapons projects, Congressional interference, corporate consolidation in the defense industry, and challenges in meeting recruitment goals.
Despite an annual defense budget exceeding $800 billion, the U.S. military's transformation has been delayed, raising concerns about its preparedness for the evolving geopolitical landscape.
The U.S. Can Afford a Bigger Military. We Just Can’t Build It
A war simulation between the U.S. and China over Taiwan results in significant losses for both sides, with the U.S. losing two aircraft carriers and up to 20 destroyers and cruisers, while China sees more than 50 major surface warships sunk.
Despite appearing as a draw, the simulation highlights China's ability to replace lost ships more rapidly than the U.S., posing a long-term strategic advantage for China.
The article discusses the challenges the U.S. faces in building and maintaining a military force, including delays in weapons production, cost overruns, and a lack of industrial capacity compared to China.
The U.S. military spending is relatively low as a percentage of GDP, and the article suggests that the focus should not just be on increased funding but on finding more cost-effective ways to build and maintain a military force.
Founded:Â 2021
Key People: CEO Arvin Ganesan
Elevator Pitch: Thermal battery storage designed to harness wasted wind and solar production to respond to grid needs with fossil fuels.
Funding:Â The company raised $19 million of Series A venture funding in a deal led by DCVC on December 12, 2023.
Founded:Â 2016
Key People:Â CEO Doron Merdinger
Elevator Pitch:Â A personal flying vehicle designed to improve the way people work and live.
Funding: The company has raised $2.86 million of targeted $5 million of equity crowdfunding via StartEngine as of December 11, 2023.
Founded:Â 2018
Key People: CEO Stephane Lintner Ph.D
Elevator Pitch: In-space propulsion and power technology intended for humanity's expansion into the solar system.
Funding: The company raised $5 million of seed funding from Airbus Ventures, TRE Ventures, and Gaingels on December 11, 2023. E2MC Ventures, Urania Ventures, and Voyager Space also participated in the round.
Look for a new episode of Securing the Future Podcasts wherever you listen. In our most recent episode, we have Mike Wishart, Efabless Chairman and CEO, sit down with General Partner Jeremy Hitchcock for an engaging conversation about the semiconductor industry, chip design, and the transformative vision behind eFabless.