August 2, 2007 - Group IV Semiconductor Inc., an Ottawa-based startup developing silicon-based solid-state light emitters, has received a "substantial" new round of investment led by Garage Technology Ventures Canada with Applied Materials' VC arm, and previous VC investors Khosla Ventures and BDC Venture Capital.

The undisclosed funds will be used to expand the firm's use of its silicon-based nanofilm technology for use in light engines that can be "many times more efficient than conventional bulbs and much more economical than today's LED alternatives," according to CEO Stephen Naor.

As part of the investment, Group IV will work with Applied Materials to develop a low-cost manufacturing process to help accelerate its technology toward commercialization and production.

Group IV's technology involves a solid-state light engine utilizing a single-chip, AC-powered, silicon-based process, with what it calls a "unique materials system" to provide high-efficiency, long-life lighting that outperforms incandescent, compact fluorescent and fluorescent lighting.

"We believe that Group IV has significant technology that complements Applied Materials' work in developing cost-effective nanomanufacturing technology solutions," said J. Christopher Moran, VP and GM of Applied Ventures, in a statement.