EDA Access: Commercial-grade EDA Tools. 
Startup-Friendly Access.

NEMC ADA Access Logo

NEMC is removing one of the most stubborn barriers facing microelectronics startups - affordable access to commercial-grade design software that makes next-generation chips possible.

Electronic design automation (EDA) software is the backbone of modern microelectronics development. From system modeling and algorithm design to IC simulation, verification and physical layout - these tools are how engineers build and validate the next generation of semiconductor technologies.

Their high cost can also make it difficult to acquire, especially for many early-stage startups.

NEMC's EDA Access Program changes that.

What is the EDA Access Program?

The NEMC EDA Access Program is a structured initiative that gives eligible NEMC member startups access to commercial-grade EDA software at significant discounts through direct partnerships with the world's leading EDA vendors.

NEMC acts as the aggregator by negotiating directly with software providers on behalf of our member community. We pool demand across the ecosystem and streamline the licensing process so startups can focus on building and innovating instead of negotiating enterprise software contracts.

EDA Partners

Cadence logo

Cadence

Offers EDA solutions for IC design, verification, and implementation, enabling precise simulation, design validation, and physical realization of semiconductor devices.

Keysight Logo

Keysight

Provides tools that simplify multi-domain insights for RF and microwave, 5G / 6G and high-speed digital printed circuit boards (PCB) throughout the design cycle.

Mathworks Logo

MathWorks

Tools for system-level design, modeling, simulation, algorithm development, signal processing and early-stage prototyping. Especially valuable for deep-tech startups working across AI, communications and advanced sensing.

EDA Access Four Step Process Diagram
How it Works
  1. Apply: Eligible NEMC member startups submit an application describing their technology focus and tool needs.
  2. Get Matched: NEMC reviews your application and connects you with the appropriate vendor offerings and pricing tiers.
  3. Sign & Access: Licensing agreements are established directly between your company and the EDA vendor. Tools are available on-premises or via vendor cloud environments.
  4. Reduce Your Cost Further: Eligible startups may also apply for a NEMC PROPEL grant to offset program costs even further.
     
Who is Eligible?
  • Active NEMC member organizations
  • Early-stage startups and companies with limited revenue
  • Entities with up to 10 employees

Not yet a NEMC member? Learn how to join 
 

Why NEMC?

NEMC is a network of more than 330 organizations, including commercial and defense companies, leading universities, federally funded R&D centers and startups operating across eight Northeast states. Established in 2023 and funded through the U.S. Department of War (DoW), NEMC is one of eight regional Microelectronics Commons hubs acting on a shared mission to expand the nation’s global leadership in microelectronics and accelerate domestic semiconductor prototyping. We build alliances and programs for our members that make the tools, connections and infrastructure of this industry accessible to the innovators building its future.

The EDA Access Program was developed directly in response to what we heard from startups in our PROPEL grant program and broader ecosystem: access to affordable, high-performance design tools is one of the most persistent gaps not addressed by traditional funding or accelerator models.

Ready to get started?

Applications are open to eligible NEMC member startups. If you're not yet a member, find out how to join at the link below.

Apply to the Program <button>            Become a NEMC Member