Cambridge's Silicon Microgravity secures €7.08 million to scale its GPS-free sensing and navigation tech
Cambridge-based startup Silicon Microgravity has raised €7.08 million to accelerate commercialization of its GPS-free sensor and navigation technology across defence, space, and semiconductor sectors.
Silicon Microgravity Limited (SMG), a Cambridge-based startup specializing in MEMS (microelectromechanical systems) semiconductor technologies, has secured €7.08 million (£6 million) in funding to accelerate commercial growth across the defence, space, and semiconductor sectors. The round includes investment from the UK Innovation & Science Seed Fund (UKI2S), managed by Future Planet Capital, with participation from both the UKI2S Defence & Security and Space portfolios, alongside lead investor West Hill Capital.
SMG was founded as a spin-out from Cambridge University, supported by BP, to develop MEMS gravity sensors for oil and gas applications. The company transforms MEMS technology developed by Prof. Ashwin Seshia at Cambridge University into real-world solutions for navigation, defence, aerospace, robotics, and geophysics.
The startup's proprietary technology enables production of high-performance MEMS devices designed for extreme environments. These are increasingly critical for modern defence systems, satellite communications, navigation, sensing, and autonomous operations. SMG focuses on two markets: inertial navigation, where its MEMS accelerometers and gyroscopes offer higher accuracy, smaller form factor, and lower cost; and gravity sensing, where its MEMS gravimeters provide robust, compact solutions for gravity surveys and alternative navigation.
SMG's MEMS accelerometers are already supporting advanced space programmes, including launch vehicles, lunar and planetary exploration, and satellite-enabled mineral exploration.
Alexander Leigh, Investment Director, Defence & Security at UKI2S, highlighted that SMG represents a strategically important dual-use technology business, combining deep technical differentiation with growing commercial validation from globally recognised customers. He emphasized that supporting sovereign capability in these areas is essential for the UK's competitiveness in critical technologies.
This investment marks UKI2S's first participation in SMG through its space portfolio, building on existing ties with the defence and security portfolio. SMG plans to use the funding to scale UK manufacturing, expand engineering and semiconductor production capacity, and accelerate commercial partnerships across Europe and the US.
