SVTC Technologies

About SVTC Technologies

SVTC Technologies operated from 2004 to 2012 as a technology services company focused on the development and commercialization of semiconductor process-based technologies. The company began as a subsidiary of Cypress Semiconductor in 2004, initially named the Silicon Valley Technology Center, spinning out of Cypress's Fab 1 facility. In 2007, it became a privately owned, independent entity following a $53 million acquisition by private equity firms Oak Hill Capital Partners and Tallwood Venture Capital. Cypress remained a customer after the sale. A significant milestone occurred in December 2007 when the company acquired the Advanced Technology Development Facility (ATDF) from SEMATECH and was subsequently renamed SVTC Technologies.

The firm provided clients with access to a manufacturing-like fab environment and a sophisticated semiconductor toolset. Its business model centered on offering development and production services for emerging technologies such as MEMS, microfluidics, high voltage, and Through-silicon via (TSV). This catered to a diverse client base across industries including semiconductors, life sciences, aerospace and defense, consumer mobility, and clean energy. For instance, the company's ITAR registration enabled it to work on defense applications, including MEMS technology for infrared imaging, optical switching, and navigation systems. In 2011, SVTC Solar, a subsidiary, was awarded a $30 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy's SunShot Initiative to establish the nation's first photovoltaics (PV) manufacturing development facility (MDF). This facility was designed to help solar innovators accelerate development while protecting their intellectual property.

Bert Bruggeman was a key figure, noted as the founder and later re-appointed as CEO in 2010. The company operated facilities in San Jose, California, and Austin, Texas, equipped with 8-inch CMOS and MEMS process tools. However, SVTC Technologies ceased operations on October 15, 2012, and executed a general assignment for the benefit of creditors. Following its closure, the San Jose operation was acquired by TSI Semiconductors, while the Austin site became Novati Technologies, a subsidiary of Tezzaron Semiconductor Corp.