Synthetic Semiconductors: Innovation to Commercialization for Photovoltaics

Purpose statement: Synthetic semiconductors1 are driving a new wave of innovation in energy and electronics, offering breakthroughs that extend far beyond traditional silicon-based technologies. In photovoltaics, they enable higher efficiency, lower cost, and scalable solutions that are critical for advancing clean energy adoption. At the same time, their unique tunability and functionality are unlocking opportunities in areas such as optoelectronics, sensing, and next-generation computing.

Bridging the gap from laboratory discovery to large-scale commercialization will be essential to fully realize their potential. Success will create opportunities not only for sustainable power generation but also for transformative applications across multiple industries.

Info: US-MAP consortium history and consensus statement on constructive government policy.

Info: Startup strategies for navigating weak domestic policy and global competition

Exploring how startups are adapting to a laissez-faire policy environment, balancing global competition, and shaping commercialization strategies for next-generation deep tech enabling technologies.

Info: · Sponsor Introduction

· Lunch Keynote: Pathways to developing supply chain depth.

Info: The State of Synthetic Semiconductors and Photovoltaics.

This session will highlight current advances in synthetic semiconductors, emerging materials for PV, and other key technologies shaping the future of the energy transition. Faculty leaders will share perspectives on progress, barriers, and opportunities at the frontier of academic research and commercialization.

Info: Investing in frontier technologies

Commercializing deep tech is notoriously difficult, requiring patient capital, strong partnerships, and clear strategies to overcome multiple “valleys of death.” This panel will focus on what investors look for in frontier technologies, with perspectives on risk assessment, portfolio strategy, and how best to position startups for successful fundraising and scale-up. Panelists will share best practices, lessons learned, and insights into the future of hard-tech investing.

Info: Topic: Startup-Investor speed “dating”

A structured networking session where startups meet directly with investors and local industry in a series of short, focused conversations. This format is designed to accelerate relationship-building, provide quick feedback to founders, and open pathways for potential partnerships, pilots, or investment discussions.

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

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Host or Publisher Memorial City