SkyWater Technology, Inc. (SKYT): Business Model Canvas [11-2024 Updated]

SkyWater Technology, Inc. (SKYT) stands at the forefront of the semiconductor industry, offering a unique blend of advanced manufacturing and innovative technology solutions. This business model canvas reveals how SkyWater leverages key partnerships, cutting-edge resources, and a tailored approach to customer relationships to deliver unparalleled value. Dive deeper to explore how this dynamic company navigates the complex landscape of aerospace, defense, and advanced computing sectors while driving revenue through specialized services and robust operational strategies.

SkyWater Technology, Inc. (SKYT) - Business Model: Key Partnerships

Collaborations with government entities for funding

SkyWater Technology has established significant partnerships with various U.S. government entities aimed at securing funding and support for domestic semiconductor manufacturing. Notably, the company benefits from programs under the CHIPS Act, which provides incentives such as a 25% manufacturing investment credit for investments in semiconductor manufacturing property placed in service after December 31, 2022.

As of September 29, 2024, SkyWater reported a revenue increase attributed to the momentum in U.S. government programs, amounting to $37.0 million due to these collaborations.

Partnerships with key customers in semiconductor sectors

SkyWater has developed strategic relationships with major customers in the semiconductor industry. In the third quarter of 2024, two customers accounted for 69% of total revenue, highlighting the critical nature of these partnerships. The company’s revenue from ATS development reached $179.2 million in the first nine months of 2024, with key contributions from these customers.

The customer base includes sectors such as automotive and bio-health, although there have been fluctuations due to market cyclicality. For example, revenue from wafer services decreased by 54% compared to the previous year, largely due to reduced activity in the automotive sector.

Relationships with technology providers for advanced manufacturing solutions

SkyWater collaborates with various technology providers to enhance its manufacturing capabilities. The company has made significant investments in tools and technologies that support its development programs, resulting in a $60.3 million increase in tools revenue from the first nine months of 2023 to 2024. These partnerships are essential for advancing SkyWater's capabilities in ATS development, which is increasingly critical as customers seek more advanced semiconductor solutions.

Partnership Type	Description	Financial Impact
Government Collaborations	Funding through CHIPS Act and other government programs	$37.0 million increase in revenue
Key Customers	Strategic relationships with major semiconductor customers	69% of total revenue from two customers
Technology Providers	Partnerships for advanced manufacturing tools and solutions	$60.3 million increase in tools revenue

SkyWater Technology, Inc. (SKYT) - Business Model: Key Activities

Advanced semiconductor manufacturing services

SkyWater Technology, Inc. specializes in advanced semiconductor manufacturing services, providing critical capabilities in the production of integrated circuits. For the first nine months of 2024, the company generated a total revenue of $266.8 million, compared to $207.5 million in the same period of 2023, reflecting a 29% increase driven by heightened demand for semiconductor solutions.

The breakdown of revenue by service type for the third quarter of 2024 is as follows:

Service Type	Q3 2024 Revenue (in thousands)	Q3 2023 Revenue (in thousands)	Change (%)
ATS Development	$56,390	$53,891	5%
Wafer Services	$6,718	$14,490	-54%
Tools	$30,709	$3,243	847%
Total	$93,817	$71,624	31%

The significant increase in tools revenue (847%) indicates a strong investment by customers to enhance their capabilities in advanced technology solutions.

Research and development for process technology

SkyWater's commitment to research and development (R&D) is essential for innovation in semiconductor manufacturing. The R&D expenses for the first nine months of 2024 totaled $10.8 million, a 48% increase from $7.3 million in the same period of 2023. This uptick demonstrates the company’s focus on advancing its process technologies to meet evolving market needs.

The financial allocation for R&D is as follows:

Period	R&D Expense (in thousands)
Q3 2024	$3,431
Q3 2023	$2,233
First Nine Months 2024	$10,825
First Nine Months 2023	$7,296

This investment in R&D is crucial as SkyWater aims to enhance its manufacturing processes and technology offerings, particularly in response to the U.S. government's initiatives to strengthen domestic semiconductor capabilities.

Providing technology-as-a-service for custom solutions

SkyWater is also pivoting towards a technology-as-a-service model, offering custom solutions tailored to specific client needs. This approach allows the company to leverage its manufacturing capabilities while providing flexible and scalable solutions to partners in various sectors, including defense and health technology.

During the first nine months of 2024, the company reported a net loss attributable to SkyWater Technology, Inc. of $6.1 million, a significant improvement from a net loss of $20.4 million in the same period of 2023. This shift towards technology-as-a-service is expected to enhance revenue stability and client engagement over time.

The financial performance indicators showing the shift to this model are:

Metric	2024 (in thousands)	2023 (in thousands)	Change (%)
Net Income (Loss)	$(6,114)	$(20,431)	70%
Revenue	$266,782	$207,529	29%

This model not only positions SkyWater to meet the diverse needs of its clients but also supports long-term growth initiatives by providing a steady revenue stream through ongoing service agreements.

SkyWater Technology, Inc. (SKYT) - Business Model: Key Resources

Fabrication facility in Minnesota

The primary fabrication facility of SkyWater Technology, Inc. is located in Minnesota. This facility is crucial for the company's operations, primarily focusing on semiconductor manufacturing. The facility has undergone significant capital improvements, with approximately $15.8 million in capital expenditures recorded for the first nine months of 2024, compared to $4.5 million in the same period of 2023.

Advanced packaging facility in Florida

SkyWater's advanced packaging facility is situated in Florida, known as the Center for NeoVation. This facility is designed to enhance the company's packaging capabilities, which are essential for meeting customer demands in high-growth markets. The company has invested in this facility as part of its overall strategy to strengthen its service offerings.

Proprietary technology and intellectual property

SkyWater possesses a robust portfolio of proprietary technology and intellectual property, which is fundamental to its competitive advantage. The company reported intangible assets of $7.2 million as of September 29, 2024, which includes software and licensed technology. This proprietary technology underpins the Advanced Technology Services (ATS) that SkyWater offers, enabling co-development of process technology IP with clients.

Key Resource	Location	Capital Expenditure (2024)	Intangible Assets (2024)
Fabrication Facility	Minnesota	$15.8 million	N/A
Advanced Packaging Facility	Florida	N/A	N/A
Proprietary Technology	N/A	N/A	$7.2 million

SkyWater's ability to deliver value to its customers is heavily reliant on these key resources, which together enhance its operational capabilities and market presence within the semiconductor industry. The ongoing investments and strategic focus on improving these assets are critical as the company seeks to expand its service offerings and maintain its competitive edge.

SkyWater Technology, Inc. (SKYT) - Business Model: Value Propositions

Unique technology foundry services not available from conventional fabs

SkyWater Technology, Inc. offers specialized technology foundry services that cater to niche markets, distinguishing itself from traditional semiconductor fabs. In 2024, the company reported a total revenue of $266.8 million for the first nine months, a 29% increase from $207.5 million in the same period of 2023. This growth is largely attributed to its advanced technology solutions, particularly in ATS (Application Technology Solutions) development, which generated $179.2 million in revenue for the first nine months of 2024.

Enhanced IP security and U.S. domestic supply chain access

SkyWater emphasizes enhanced intellectual property (IP) security and U.S. domestic supply chain access, addressing growing concerns about global supply chain vulnerabilities. For the first nine months of 2024, the company’s cost of revenue was $216.5 million, reflecting a 35% increase from $160.2 million in the previous year, largely driven by the demand for secure, domestic semiconductor manufacturing.

The company’s strategic initiatives have been supported by U.S. government programs aimed at strengthening the domestic semiconductor supply chain, resulting in increased revenue of approximately $37 million.

Rapid transition from development to high-yield production

SkyWater's ability to transition rapidly from development to high-yield production is a critical component of its value proposition. The company has successfully increased its ATS development revenue by $25.5 million, or 17%, from the first nine months of 2023 to 2024. Additionally, tools revenue surged by $60.3 million during the same period, reflecting increased customer investments in advanced manufacturing capabilities.

Quarter	Revenue (in thousands)	Cost of Revenue (in thousands)	Gross Profit (in thousands)	Net Income (Loss) (in thousands)
Q3 2024	$93,817	$73,582	$20,235	$2,628
Q3 2023	$71,624	$57,477	$14,147	$(6,602)
First 9 Months 2024	$266,782	$216,453	$50,329	$(2,960)
First 9 Months 2023	$207,529	$160,247	$47,282	$(16,692)

SkyWater Technology, Inc. (SKYT) - Business Model: Customer Relationships

Direct collaboration with clients on custom projects

SkyWater Technology, Inc. engages in direct collaboration with clients to develop custom semiconductor solutions. This involves co-development of process technology intellectual property (IP) tailored to specific customer needs, particularly in high-growth markets. In 2024, revenue from Advanced Technology Services (ATS) development reached approximately $179.2 million for the first nine months, up from $153.7 million in the same period of 2023, showcasing a growth of 17%.

Long-term contracts with key customers for reliable revenue

The company has established long-term contracts with key customers, ensuring a stable revenue stream. As of September 29, 2024, SkyWater's total revenue was $266.8 million for the first nine months, representing a 29% increase compared to $207.5 million in the same period of 2023. Long-term contracts are critical as they provide predictability in cash flow and help in planning capital expenditures.

Support for technology development and production needs

SkyWater provides extensive support for technology development and production needs, facilitating its clients in the semiconductor sector. For instance, the tools revenue surged to $65.0 million in the first nine months of 2024 from $4.7 million in the same period of 2023, indicating a substantial increase in client investment in tools necessary for production. The company’s commitment to enhancing customer capabilities is further reflected in its R&D expenses, which rose to $10.8 million in the first nine months of 2024, compared to $7.3 million in 2023.

Metric	Q3 2024 (in thousands)	Q3 2023 (in thousands)	Percentage Change
Revenue from ATS development	$56,390	$53,891	5%
Total Revenue	$93,817	$71,624	31%
Tools Revenue	$30,709	$3,243	847%
R&D Expenses	$3,431	$2,233	54%

SkyWater Technology, Inc. (SKYT) - Business Model: Channels

Direct sales to high-growth markets

SkyWater Technology, Inc. targets high-growth markets such as defense, aerospace, and advanced semiconductor manufacturing. In the first nine months of 2024, the company reported a revenue of $266.8 million, an increase of 29% compared to $207.5 million in the same period of 2023. This growth was primarily driven by ATS development revenue, which reached $179.2 million in the first nine months of 2024, compared to $153.7 million in 2023.

The company's direct sales strategy focuses on building strong relationships with key customers, particularly in government sectors, where contracts often represent significant revenue streams. Notably, two customers accounted for approximately 69% of revenue in Q3 2024, emphasizing the importance of key accounts in SkyWater's revenue structure.

Online platforms for product and service promotion

In 2024, SkyWater has enhanced its digital presence to promote its products and services, leveraging online platforms for marketing and customer engagement. The company strategically utilizes its website and social media channels to showcase its capabilities in semiconductor manufacturing and technology development. This approach aims to attract new clients and maintain visibility among existing customers.

SkyWater's marketing efforts include the use of targeted online advertisements and content marketing to educate potential customers about its offerings. The company allocated approximately $12.1 million in selling, general, and administrative expenses for Q3 2024, which includes costs associated with online marketing initiatives.

Industry conferences and trade shows for networking

SkyWater actively participates in industry conferences and trade shows to network with potential clients and partners. These events provide opportunities for the company to showcase its advanced semiconductor technologies and innovative solutions. In 2024, such events have been critical in reinforcing SkyWater's reputation as a leader in the semiconductor foundry space.

For instance, participation in key industry events has allowed SkyWater to engage with government agencies and defense contractors, fostering relationships that contribute to its growth in the defense sector. The company’s attendance at these events is part of a broader strategy to enhance visibility and drive sales through direct interactions with industry stakeholders.

Channel Type	Details	Financial Impact
Direct Sales	Targeting defense, aerospace, and semiconductor markets	Revenue: $266.8 million (9M 2024)
Online Platforms	Use of website and social media for marketing	SG&A Expenses: $12.1 million (Q3 2024)
Industry Conferences	Networking with clients and partners	Increased visibility in the defense sector

SkyWater Technology, Inc. (SKYT) - Business Model: Customer Segments

Aerospace and Defense Industries

SkyWater Technology, Inc. serves the aerospace and defense sectors, which have been crucial for the growth of its ATS (Advanced Technology Services) development revenue. In 2024, revenue from ATS development increased by $37 million, driven by U.S. government programs aimed at strengthening the domestic semiconductor supply chain and defense industrial base.

Metric	2024 Amount (in millions)	2023 Amount (in millions)	Percentage Change
ATS Development Revenue	$179.2	$153.7	+16.7%
Contribution from Defense Programs	$37.0	N/A	N/A
Overall Revenue	$266.8	$207.5	+29%

Advanced Computing and Automotive Sectors

SkyWater's engagement with advanced computing and automotive sectors has shown mixed results, particularly in wafer services revenue. The automotive market faced a decline in demand, resulting in a drop of approximately $26.6 million in wafer services revenue for the first nine months of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023.

Metric	2024 Amount (in millions)	2023 Amount (in millions)	Percentage Change
Wafer Services Revenue	$22.5	$49.1	-54%
Decrease in Automotive Revenue	$26.6	N/A	N/A

Bio-Health and Industrial Applications

In the bio-health sector, SkyWater experienced a revenue decline of approximately $1.6 million, attributed to the cyclicality of customer development programs. This reflects the broader trend of fluctuating demand across various segments, impacting overall revenue stability.

Metric	2024 Amount (in millions)	2023 Amount (in millions)	Percentage Change
Bio-Health Revenue Decrease	$1.6	N/A	N/A

SkyWater Technology, Inc. (SKYT) - Business Model: Cost Structure

Significant capital expenditures for facility and equipment upgrades

For the first nine months of 2024, SkyWater Technology, Inc. incurred approximately $15.8 million in capital expenditures, up from $4.5 million in the same period of 2023. The majority of these expenditures were directed towards improvements at the Minnesota facility and the development of advanced packaging capabilities at the Center for NeoVation in Florida.

As of September 29, 2024, SkyWater had approximately $7.5 million in contractual commitments for anticipated capital expenditures, which are expected to be settled during the remainder of 2024.

Operational costs associated with manufacturing and R&D

The cost of revenue for SkyWater increased to $216.5 million for the first nine months of 2024, compared to $160.2 million for the same period in 2023, marking a significant increase of $56.2 million. This increase was primarily driven by a $60.0 million rise in costs associated with tools revenue, as well as an additional $15.6 million related to facility expansions.

Research and development expenses also rose significantly, amounting to $10.8 million for the first nine months of 2024, compared to $7.3 million in the prior year.

Marketing and sales expenses to maintain customer relationships

Selling, general, and administrative expenses totaled $35.6 million for the first nine months of 2024, a decrease from $48.8 million in the same period of 2023. These expenses include costs related to marketing efforts aimed at maintaining and expanding customer relationships, essential for sustaining revenue growth.

The following table summarizes the operational and marketing costs for SkyWater Technology, Inc. for the first nine months of 2024 and 2023:

Cost Type	2024 (in thousands)	2023 (in thousands)	Percentage Change
Cost of Revenue	$216,453	$160,247	35%
Research and Development	$10,825	$7,296	48%
Selling, General, and Administrative	$35,598	$48,821	-27%

SkyWater Technology, Inc. (SKYT) - Business Model: Revenue Streams

Income from semiconductor manufacturing services

SkyWater Technology generates significant revenue through its semiconductor manufacturing services. For the first nine months of 2024, the revenue from Advanced Technology Services (ATS) development was reported at $179.2 million, compared to $153.7 million for the same period in 2023, marking an increase of 17%. This growth was driven by increased U.S. government investments aimed at bolstering the domestic semiconductor supply chain, contributing an additional $37 million in revenue.

Revenue Source	Q3 2024 (in thousands)	Q3 2023 (in thousands)	9M 2024 (in thousands)	9M 2023 (in thousands)
ATS Development	$56,390	$53,891	$179,244	$153,735
Wafer Services	$6,718	$14,490	$22,490	$49,079
Total Semiconductor Manufacturing Revenue	$63,108	$68,381	$201,734	$202,814

Fees for advanced technology services and support

SkyWater also derives revenue from fees associated with advanced technology services. For the third quarter of 2024, these services contributed $56.4 million, indicating a 5% year-over-year increase from $53.9 million in Q3 2023. The growth in ATS fees was primarily attributed to enhanced demand from governmental contracts and the defense sector.

Sales of tools and equipment related to semiconductor production

The sales of tools and equipment represent a growing revenue stream for SkyWater Technology. In the third quarter of 2024, tools revenue surged to $30.7 million, up from $3.2 million in the same quarter of 2023, reflecting an increase of 846%. For the first nine months of 2024, tools revenue reached $65 million, compared to $4.7 million in the prior year, a substantial increase of 1,378%.

Revenue from Tools Sales	Q3 2024 (in thousands)	Q3 2023 (in thousands)	9M 2024 (in thousands)	9M 2023 (in thousands)
Tools Revenue	$30,709	$3,243	$65,048	$4,715

Updated on 16 Nov 2024

Resources:

1. SkyWater Technology, Inc. (SKYT) Financial Statements – Access the full quarterly financial statements for Q3 2024 to get an in-depth view of SkyWater Technology, Inc. (SKYT)' financial performance, including balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow statements.
2. SEC Filings – View SkyWater Technology, Inc. (SKYT)' latest filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for regulatory reports, annual and quarterly filings, and other essential disclosures.