Silicon Valley, CA and Utrecht, The Netherlands – September 16, 2024 – Silicon Catalyst, the only incubator + accelerator focused on the global semiconductor industry, including Chips, Chiplets, Materials, IP and Silicon fabrication-based Photonics, MEMS, Sensors, Life Science and Quantum, announces that TD Shepherd has joined as the newest member of the company’s In-Kind Partner (IKP) ecosystem. Silicon Catalyst IKPs provide technical and business support to the Portfolio Companies in the incubator + accelerator, enabling them to tap into the products and services available to enhance the growth of their companies.
Specializing in semiconductors, semiconductor equipment and materials, photonics, EDA, AI/ML, and embedded programming, with a global team of seasoned professionals, including engineers and senior bankers, TD Shepherd brings a unique blend of corporate finance expertise and hands-on experience to Silicon Catalyst’s portfolio companies.
Operating globally, with Associates in the US, Canada and Europe, TD Shepherd has a rich network of Dutch, European, Asian and US venture funds, PE parties, and corporate venture funds active in and focused on the deep-tech sector. TD Shepherd is a member of global organizations such as GSA and IEEE and has turn-key partnerships with Microtech Ventures, HighTech Startbahn, and corporate finance companies, ensuring quick access to relevant parties.
As an IKP member, TD Shepherd offers startup training services on key topics such as Due Diligence, Ambition & Compass, and Funding Round Preparation. The intensive training sessions are designed to help deep-tech startups navigate complex financial landscapes and create sustainable growth models.
“Joining Silicon Catalyst as an In-Kind Partner aligns perfectly with TD Shepherd’s mission to support and accelerate the growth of innovative deep-tech companies and help them take the next step,” said Mike Beunder, Founder & Managing Partner of TD Shepherd. “We look forward to collaborating with Silicon Catalyst’s portfolio companies, providing them with our expertise and strategic guidance they need to succeed in this dynamic industry.”
“By leveraging TD Shepherd’s specialized knowledge and extensive industry network, Silicon Catalyst’s portfolio companies will be better equipped to achieve their goals and drive the next generation of technological advancements. We look forward to working with the TD Shepherd team,” stated Paul Pickering, Managing Partner, Silicon Catalyst.
https://siliconcatalyst.com/td-shepherd-joins-the-silicon-catalyst-inkind-partner-ecosystem
The TD Shepherd team is happy to congratulate the Qualinx B.V. team on successfully raising €20 million from Dutch investors. TD Shepherd has provided strategic support to Qualinx over the years (starting in 2018), witnessing each step of their journey; their growth and success, makes us truly proud of their outstanding achievements.
If there’s one thing we’ve learned about surviving the Valley of Death in deep tech, it’s this: don’t go it alone. This stage is all about leveraging relationships, and corporate partnerships can be your most valuable lifeline. The key is to think beyond customers.
The so-called “Valley of Death” in deep tech isn’t just about running out of cash—it’s about navigating a period where expectations clash with reality. Investors want to see traction, but your tech isn’t market-ready. Customers are intrigued, but they’re not ready to commit. And your R&D costs? They’re still burning through cash like it’s a bonfire.