CSA Catapult Partners with Cadence and Welsh Government for Semiconductor Growth
Deal News | May 16, 2025 | TLT
TLT has advised CSA Catapult, the UK's leading authority on compound semiconductor applications, on a significant joint venture with the Welsh Government and US-based Cadence Design Systems. This collaboration aims to harness Cadence's expertise in electronic design automation, AI-driven integrated circuit solutions, and the advanced capabilities of CSA Catapult to foster innovations in the UK's semiconductor industry. The partnership will establish a semiconductor design center in Wales, projected to create over 100 jobs for UK graduates over the next five years and contribute approximately £34 million to the UK economy. TLT's fast-growth and AI-focused legal team, led by Corporate Partner Adam Kuan and Managing Associate Mumuksha Singh, played a pivotal role in managing the equity and financing aspects of the deal, drawing upon cross-practice expertise from teams in banking, competition, regulatory, and trade. The joint venture underscores the resilience and growth of the semiconductor industry amidst economic challenges and aligns with the UK's industrial strategy to bolster the digital sector.
Sectors
- Semiconductor
- Artificial Intelligence
- Legal Advisory
Geography
- United Kingdom – The joint venture aims to advance the UK's semiconductor industry, creating jobs and enhancing technological innovation.
- Wales – Specific focus on the local Welsh semiconductor ecosystem with governmental support, highlighting regional growth and development.
- United States – Cadence Design Systems, a US-based company, plays a crucial role in providing technological expertise for the joint venture.
Industry
- Semiconductor – The article revolves around advancements in the semiconductor industry, specifically focusing on creating a semiconductor design center and leveraging electronics and AI technologies.
- Artificial Intelligence – AI-driven technologies are at the core of the joint venture's objectives, aiming to enhance integrated circuit design solutions and technological capabilities in the UK.
- Legal Advisory – TLT's involvement as a legal advisor highlights the role of skilled legal services in facilitating complex international joint ventures, particularly in emerging tech sectors.
Financials
- £34 million – Projected economic contribution to the UK economy from the semiconductor design center.
Participants
| Name | Role | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| CSA Catapult | Target | Company | The UK's authority on compound semiconductor applications, engaged in the joint venture to boost the semiconductor sector. |
| Cadence Design Systems, Inc. | Bidding Company | Company | A US company providing electronic design automation software and AI-driven integrated circuit design solutions for the joint venture. |
| Welsh Government | Other | Government | Provides backing to the joint venture, promoting growth in Wales' semiconductor industry. |
| TLT | Legal Advisor | Company | A legal firm advising CSA Catapult on the joint venture, ensuring smooth execution and coordination of the deal. |