SmartSoC, CDAC’s ChipIN Centre Partner for Semicon Startups under DLI Scheme

Bengaluru-based SmartSoC Solutions has partnered with the ChipIN Centre at the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (CDAC). This is to provide post-silicon validation services and foundry access to startups registered under India’s Design Linked Incentive (DLI) programme. 

The collaboration aims to assist startups and MSMEs in moving from chip design to production by offering critical technical support at no cost. The initiative focuses on solving challenges in access to fabrication and back-end validation.

SmartSoC CEO Bharath Desareddy said, “We understand the tough journey from design to functional silicon. SmartSoC pledges to be the one-stop partner guiding startups through real-world complexities.” He added that the company aims to support innovators beyond commercial interests.

Through this partnership, SmartSoC will offer post-silicon validation to test silicon prototypes against functional and performance benchmarks, while also enabling multiple foundry options for startups to select suitable manufacturing paths. 

The effort intends to reduce time-to-market, enhance commercial readiness, and strengthen India’s semiconductor ecosystem.

Access to Key Infrastructure

SmartSoC is among the first Indian firms to work with multiple foundries, providing startups with flexibility in their design needs. The company’s contributions to the DLI Scheme include validation, SoC design, verification, and product engineering support.

This initiative also aligns with the government’s India Semiconductor Mission and Atmanirbhar Bharat mission to promote self-reliance in semiconductor technology.

CDAC director general E. Magesh welcomed the collaboration, stating, “This reinforces our commitment to empowering Indian startups and MSMEs with world-class semiconductor design infrastructure.” 

CDAC leaders emphasised that providing access to expert labs, test resources, and engineering support helps reduce both cost and risk for early-stage companies.Additionally, SD Sudarsan of CDAC Bangalore noted that access to validation and foundry services ensures startups can move confidently towards deployable products. The ChipIN Centre provides advanced tools, prototyping and high-performance computing resources, serving as a backbone for national semiconductor development.