Founded in 2022 from University of Dayton photonics research, Dayton-based Nabu Optical Systems develops maskless optical lithography tools for semiconductor prototyping and production. Its platform uses virtual masks to combine projection lithography’s speed with direct laser writing’s flexibility, serving startups, research institutions and smaller chip manufacturers that need a more accessible path to fabrication. The company won the startup competition at the 2025 International Conference on Electron, Ion, and Photon Beam Technology and Nanofabrication.
VectorScribe LLCVectorScribe LLC is a Bethlehem, Pennsylvania photonics startup built around making advanced optical microfabrication more accessible. It uses proprietary, maskless laser direct writing to create custom optical microstructures for researchers and companies developing authentication features or testing new optical designs, with prototype turnaround typically about a week.BETHLEHEM, PA
Geminatio, IncFounded in 2021, Schenectady-based Geminatio develops semiconductor materials and lithography infrastructure aimed at enabling lower-cost paths to integrated-circuit shrink. The venture brings together specialists in advanced photolithography and resolution enhancement, including co-founder Jim Wiley, who previously led EUV and high-NA EUV infrastructure strategy at ASML and built Brion Technologies’ computational-lithography business. Its technical team combines experience in polymer chemistry, EUV photoresists, process integration, and high-volume semiconductor manufacturing.SCHENECTADY, NY
RAITH GmbHHeadquartered in Dortmund, RAITH GmbH develops maskless nanofabrication and characterization systems for research and industrial device production. Its high-precision electron-beam and laser lithography tools, alongside imaging and analysis systems, support work in fields such as semiconductors, photonics and quantum technology. RAITH combines more than 40 years of nanofabrication experience with a global network of offices, experience centers and service specialists.TROY, NY
Nexus NanoWorks LLCNexus NanoWorks LLC is a Rochester, New York-based microfabrication foundry providing accessible design, prototyping, and small-batch production support for MEMS and microelectronics. With more than 25 years of experience and work carried out through New York State’s semiconductor and research network, the company helps startups, researchers, and technology companies move devices from concept toward manufacturable production. Nexus NanoWorks is also a certified Women-Owned Business Enterprise (WBE).