In a stunning display of investor confidence, Kerala-based semiconductor startup Netrasemi has just raised a massive Rs 107 crore ($12.5 million) in its Series A funding round, led
In a stunning display of investor confidence, Kerala-based semiconductor startup Netrasemi has just raised a massive Rs 107 crore ($12.5 million) in its Series A funding round, led by tech giant Zoho Corporation. This fresh infusion of capital marks a staggering 6.6X jump in the company’s valuation—from Rs 95 crore ($11 million) to around Rs 630 crore ($74 million)—in less than a year.
Founded in 2020, Netrasemi has been quietly revolutionizing the semiconductor space by developing advanced system-on-chips (SoCs) tailored for smart IoT devices. Unlike ordinary chips, their products are designed to handle complex workloads like video processing, making them ideal for next-gen smart gadgets.
What truly sets Netrasemi apart is their energy-efficient chips powered by an in-house AI acceleration core, called the Neural Processing Unit (NPU), and proprietary silicon IPs. This technology enables real-time analytics directly on the device itself, eliminating the need for server or cloud dependency. For IoT applications, this means faster, smarter, and more secure operations.
The company issued 15,063 Series A Compulsorily Convertible Preference Shares (CCPS) at an issue price of Rs 71,000 each to raise the amount, according to official filings with the Registrar of Companies (RoC).
Only in December 2024, Netrasemi had raised a Rs 10 crore pre-Series A round. In under a year, the company has multiplied its valuation more than sixfold, signaling strong market validation and confidence in its technology and growth trajectory.
Zoho Corporation’s lead investment is particularly significant, as it underscores interest from one of India’s most prominent tech firms in the semiconductor sector—an industry crucial for India’s ambitions to become self-reliant in chip manufacturing.
In an era where IoT devices are becoming omnipresent—from smart homes and cities to autonomous vehicles—efficient and intelligent chipsets are the backbone of innovation.
Netrasemi’s chips allow:
This cutting-edge combination positions Netrasemi as a frontrunner in India’s semiconductor startup ecosystem.
India has been pushing hard to build a robust semiconductor manufacturing ecosystem to reduce dependence on imports. Startups like Netrasemi play a pivotal role in this vision by innovating locally and attracting major investments.
With the semiconductor shortage continuing globally, and demand for IoT and AI-driven devices skyrocketing, Netrasemi’s homegrown chip technology is well-placed to capture huge market opportunities, both in India and internationally.
With this fresh capital, Netrasemi plans to:
The startup’s journey from a Rs 95 crore valuation to Rs 630 crore in under a year proves one thing: India’s semiconductor future is bright, and homegrown startups are leading the charge.
If you’re following India’s tech revolution, Netrasemi is a name to remember. With strong investor backing, innovative tech, and a market primed for growth, this Kerala-based startup is on the fast track to becoming a key player in the global semiconductor industry.
