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CSA Catapult transition to Semiconductor Catapult FAQ

Date: 09.06.2026

Close-up view of several servers stacked in a data center rack, illuminated with blue AI lighting. - CSA Catapult
A scientist in a lab coat and hair net uses a microscope at a laboratory workbench. - CSA Catapult

What is being announced?
The Compound Semiconductor Applications Catapult (CSA Catapult) will transition to become the Semiconductor Catapult, following the publication of the UK Government’s AI Hardware Plan.
This transition reflects an expanded role in supporting the UK semiconductor sector and accelerating the deployment of AI infrastructure.

Why is this change happening?
The transition addresses a critical gap in UK AI infrastructure, specifically the challenge of moving from AI research to real-world deployment.
It recognises that while the UK has strong research and design capabilities, more support is needed to translate this into deployable systems.

What will the Semiconductor Catapult do?
The Semiconductor Catapult will focus on delivering R&D in energy-efficient, deployable systems, particularly for AI data centres and industrial applications.
It will:
Accelerate the journey from research to real-world deployment
Reduce risk for companies developing new technologies
Enable more start-ups and businesses to access UK-based supply chains

CSA Catapult transition to Semiconductor Catapult FAQ

What problem is it solving for industry?
One of the biggest challenges for semiconductor companies is moving from a “brilliant design to a product that is ready for market.”
The Semiconductor Catapult will help close that gap, supporting companies to get their technologies out of the lab and into real-world systems.

What is its role in AI infrastructure?
The Semiconductor Catapult will support the development of AI hardware, particularly in improving the performance and energy efficiency of data centres.
It will work with industry to:
Develop deployable systems
Improve efficiency
Support adoption of UK-designed semiconductor technologies

How will it support UK companies?
The Semiconductor Catapult will:
Help reduce technical and commercial risk
Enable more companies to scale
Support access to new supply chains anchored in the UK
This will make it easier for UK companies to bring innovations to market and grow.

CSA Catapult transition to Semiconductor Catapult FAQ

What does this mean for the UK semiconductor sector?
The transition strengthens the UK’s ability to:
Scale semiconductor innovation
Build resilient supply chains
Increase the adoption of UK-designed technologies
It reinforces the UK’s position in a strategically important and fast-growing global sector.

Who will the Semiconductor Catapult work with?
The Catapult will work closely with:
Industry partners
Start-ups and scale-ups
The Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT)
Innovate UK
This collaboration will support delivery of the UK’s AI Hardware Plan.

When will the transition happen?
The transition to Semiconductor Catapult will begin over the summer.

Close-up of a blue-lit computer motherboard with microchips, electronic components, and AI technology. - CSA Catapult

What is the overall ambition?
The Semiconductor Catapult aims to:
Accelerate the deployment of AI hardware
Enable more UK companies to reach commercial scale
Increase adoption of UK semiconductor technologies
Support the UK’s leadership in AI infrastructure

How should this be understood in one sentence?
The Semiconductor Catapult will help turn UK semiconductor innovation into real-world AI infrastructure by accelerating deployment and reducing risk for industry.