Wooptix has visited MONDRAGON to explore opportunities for collaboration in the field of semiconductors

A working session to identify synergies

The event began in Otalora with a working session attended by representatives from MONDRAGON, MONDRAGON Ventures and various cooperatives and technology centres linked to advanced manufacturing, electronics and research. Among those present were Fagor Arrasate, Fagor Automation, Fagor Electrónica, the DG and MIA divisions, Ideko, Ikerlan and Mondragon Unibertsitatea.

Wooptix was represented by its founders, José Manuel Rodríguez, the company’s CEO, and Javier Elizalde, COO. During the meeting, the startup’s progress in the semiconductor sector was discussed, and potential areas for technological and market collaboration with various MONDRAGON entities were explored.

The visit continued in the afternoon at Ikerlan’s facilities, where Wooptix representatives were able to learn about some of the technology centre’s projects and capabilities, thereby strengthening the bond between the two organisations and exploring new opportunities for collaboration.

A partnership that began in 2023 and continues to grow

The relationship between Wooptix and MONDRAGON dates back to 2023, when Danobatgroup, Fagor Automation and the MONDRAGON Corporation backed the Canary Islands-based start-up in an investment round aimed at driving the development of its technology for the semiconductor industry. Since then, the partnership has developed positively and both parties continue to identify new avenues for cooperation.

José Manuel Rodríguez, founder and CEO of Wooptix, discusses the startup’s development since MONDRAGON, Danobatgroup and Fagor Automation acquired a stake in the company, and outlines the challenges and opportunities facing a firm seeking to establish itself in the semiconductor sector.

How did the Wooptix project come about and in which areas does it operate?

Wooptix is a spin-off from the University of La Laguna in Tenerife, arising from research into astrophysics and adaptive optics. Based on this research, the proprietary WFPI (Wavefront Phase Imaging) technology was developed, which today forms the technological foundation of the company.

We work in the field of semiconductor metrology, developing systems capable of measuring silicon wafers at high speed and with great precision, which is key in the industry with the implementation of new advanced chip architectures.

When did your paths cross with MONDRAGON and the Danobatgroup and Fagor Automation cooperatives, and how do you view that collaboration?

Wooptix crossed paths with the MONDRAGON Corporation during its second funding round, when it secured an EIC Accelerator project and needed validation from a European investor to obtain public funding.

Both Danobatgroup and Fagor Automation, as well as MONDRAGON, placed their trust in our technology, and the relationship has been excellent ever since. In addition to the investment, we are jointly developing market-oriented technical solutions. We believe this relationship could become even closer in the coming years.

How has Wooptix’s journey been since then?

Wooptix has validated its technology in the semiconductor sector and is now seeking to establish itself as a supplier of sub-nanometre metrology machines for the industry.

The collaboration with MONDRAGON and its cooperatives could act as a catalyst to firmly establish us in semiconductor fabs.

The collaboration with MONDRAGON and its cooperatives could act as a catalyst to firmly establish us in semiconductor fabs.

What does the medium- and long-term future hold for Wooptix?

With the opening of new facilities and its expansion into key regions within the sector, the company aims to strengthen its international positioning and reach, with the aim of offering all its customers and partners the best possible experience.

Projects to develop new solutions that meet market needs will remain fundamental to the company’s development in the coming years, whilst always listening to the customer and anticipating new technological demands.

You have recently announced significant developments to drive your growth. Which ones would you highlight?

One of the most important milestones has been the start of construction on our new cleanroom in Tenerife, announced last April. These facilities will facilitate the research and development of our technology, as well as the assembly of machinery, strengthening our capabilities at a key stage for the company.

In addition, we have opened new offices in Grenoble (France), one of the main European hubs for the semiconductor industry. This presence will allow us to strengthen our position in Europe, facilitate new collaborations with strategic companies in the sector, and bring us even closer to our customers and technology partners.

Last but not least, we would like to highlight the launch of Phemet® in November 2025, our new metrology platform designed to meet the increasingly demanding challenges of the semiconductor industry. This launch represents a strategic step for Wooptix, as it enables us to expand our technological offering, access new market opportunities and strengthen our ability to generate business on an international scale. Phemet is the result of years of investment in R&D and reflects our commitment to transforming cutting-edge technology into solutions that have a real impact on the industry. With this development, we are consolidating our position in a rapidly expanding market and laying the foundations for a new phase of sustainable growth.