News Article
Northeast Microelectronics Coalition launches Third PROPEL funding opportunity

The Northeast Microelectronics Coalition (NEMC) has launched its third Powering Regional Opportunities for Prototyping Microelectronics (PROPEL) funding initiative.
Following the success of its first two PROPEL programs, this new opportunity offers up to $4 million in grant funding to support manufacturing and operations activities at cutting-edge microelectronics companies. The effort will further NEMC’s mission to scale lab-to-fab transitions across the Northeast.
The PROPEL Program supports startups and small businesses with grant funding for critical development activities including device fabrication and packaging, electronic design automation (EDA) software utilization and securing patents. This initiative directly supports NEMC’s work to build a thriving microelectronics ecosystem, bridging the gap between proof-of-concept devices and production readiness.
“We are excited to offer this follow-on opportunity to our members, supporting innovators advancing bold ideas with potential for significant industry impact,” said NEMC Hub Director Mark Halfman. “We are incredibly proud of the progress already demonstrated by our current PROPEL awardees, and we look forward to building on that success toward sustainable lab-to-fab enablement.”
The PROPEL Program has a rolling application process. The initial application window opens today and will close on Tuesday, July 8, 2025. Information regarding subsequent application windows can be found on the program website. Applications may be submitted via this link.