SemiconStart Malaysia
Overview
National semiconductor incubator and accelerator run by MTDC with Silicon Catalyst UK, built on the ChipStart UK and EU models. Phase 1a (incubation) gives up to RM1 million per company as a convertible grant over 12 months, June 2026 to June 2027; companies that graduate can access Phase 1b (acceleration) of up to RM10 million per company through redeemable convertible preference shares over up to 36 months. Participants get access to Silicon Catalyst's ecosystem — EDA tools, simulation software, foundry PDKs, multi-project wafer runs, and 400+ industry advisors. Open to companies incorporated in Malaysia with technology at TRL 3/4 and above across IC design, advanced materials, photonics and optics, MEMS and sensors, quantum, advanced packaging and semiconductor manufacturing; start-ups, SMEs, joint ventures and subsidiaries all qualify, and companies under 51% Malaysian-owned must keep a 1:3 foreign-to-local technical talent ratio and commit to filing IP with MyIPO. Applications for the inaugural 2026 cohort ran from April 2026 and closed on 21 May 2026 — watch the page for the next cohort.
Who is eligible?
- Must have an active SSM business registration.
- Target sectors: Manufacturing, Digital & IT.
- Best for funding needs like: general.
What this grant covers
- General business growth — advisory, capacity building and operational improvements.
How to apply
- 1
Check you qualify
Confirm you meet the eligibility points above for this grant.
- 2
Get your documents ready
Prepare your documents — SSM business registration, company financials, and quotations or a project proposal for what you want funded.
- 3
Apply through the official channel
Submit your application through MTDC — SemiconStart and wait for evaluation and approval before starting.
- 4
Keep records & claim
Keep receipts and reports, and submit claims or progress updates as the programme requires.
Ready to apply?
Applications are handled on the official MTDC — SemiconStart portal.
Need a hand with this application?
Post what you need on the EquatorBiz Marketplace — consultants and service providers WhatsApp you directly. Free for businesses.
Frequently asked questions
When can I apply for SemiconStart Malaysia?
It runs in windows ("By window"). Check the official source for the current intake window.
How much funding can I get?
Up to RM1M (Phase 1a) / RM10M (Phase 1b). The exact award depends on your project and the agency's assessment.
Do I need an SSM-registered business?
Yes — you need an active SSM business registration to be eligible.
Which businesses or sectors does it support?
It targets these sectors: Manufacturing, Digital & IT.
Who manages this grant?
It's administered by MTDC.
Not sure if you qualify?
Run a free eligibility check or ask EquatorBiz's advisor about this grant.
General information only — grant terms and intake windows change. Always confirm the latest details on the official portal before applying. Last verified by EquatorBiz on 26 Jul 2026.
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