July 21, 2025
K1 Semiconductor pitched at the University of Chicago Tech Ventures Demo Day, hosted at Google Chicago as part of TechChicago Week.
The event, organized by the Polsky Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, brought together 21 deep tech startups from across the Midwest — each addressing some of the world’s most complex technological challenges.
From quantum computing to cleantech, artificial intelligence, and data science, the diversity of innovation on display was both energizing and inspiring.
Connor Horn, Co-founder and CEO of K1 Semiconductor, presented how K1 is reimagining chip manufacturing through a novel wafer-splitting platform that enables up to 20x wafer reuse.
This breakthrough has the potential to significantly improve the sustainability, scalability, and cost-efficiency of advanced semiconductor production — a critical leap forward as global demand for chips continues to surge.
K1’s technology garnered significant attention in a room filled with investors, corporate partners, and ecosystem leaders.
More than just a showcase, the event was a testament to the strength of the Midwest’s deep tech community and the value of collaboration in scaling scientific breakthroughs into real-world solutions.
We’re grateful to the Polsky Center, Google Chicago, and all the organizers, mentors, and attendees who made the day a success. It’s an honor to be among a cohort of founders building long-term, high-impact ventures.
As we continue to develop our platform and engage with partners across the semiconductor value chain, today’s pitch marks a key step in our journey — and a reflection of what’s possible when science, engineering, and entrepreneurship come together.
