Technology startup Wooptix, backed by MONDRAGON, Danobatgroup, and Fagor Automation since 2023, visited several MONDRAGON facilities last Thursday to share progress, explore collaboration opportunities, and gain first-hand insight into some of the technological capabilities within the cooperative ecosystem.
A Working Session to Identify Synergies
The day began at Otalora with a working session attended by representatives from MONDRAGON, MONDRAGON Ventures, and various cooperatives and technology centers linked to advanced manufacturing, electronics, and research. Participants included Fagor Arrasate, Fagor Automation, Fagor Electrónica, the DG and MIA divisions, Ideko, Ikerlan, and Mondragon Unibertsitatea.
Representing Wooptix were its founders, José Manuel Rodríguez, the company’s CEO, and Javier Elizalde, COO. During the meeting, the startup shared its latest developments in the semiconductor sector and explored potential areas for technological and commercial collaboration with different MONDRAGON organizations.
The visit continued in the afternoon at Ikerlan’s facilities, where Wooptix representatives had the opportunity to learn about some of the technology center’s projects and capabilities. The visit further strengthened the relationship between the two organizations and opened the door to new opportunities for joint work.
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 MONDRAGON Corporation invested in the Canary Islands-based startup through a funding round aimed at accelerating the development of its semiconductor technology. Since then, the collaboration has evolved positively, with both parties continuing to identify new avenues for cooperation.
José Manuel Rodríguez, founder and CEO of Wooptix, reflects on the company’s evolution since MONDRAGON, Danobatgroup, and Fagor Automation joined its shareholder base, and discusses the challenges and opportunities facing a company seeking to strengthen its position in the semiconductor industry.
How did the Wooptix project begin, and what areas does the company focus on?
Wooptix is a spin-off from the University of La Laguna in Tenerife, originating from research in astrophysics and adaptive optics. This research led to the development of the company’s proprietary WFPI (Wavefront Phase Imaging) technology, which now forms the technological foundation of the business.
We operate in the field of semiconductor metrology, developing systems capable of measuring silicon wafers with exceptional speed and precision—capabilities that are increasingly critical as the industry adopts new advanced chip architectures.
When did Wooptix and MONDRAGON, together with Danobatgroup and Fagor Automation, first connect, and how do you assess that relationship?
Wooptix crossed paths with MONDRAGON Corporation during its second funding round, after securing an EIC Accelerator project and requiring validation from a European investor to obtain the corresponding public matching funds.
Danobatgroup, Fagor Automation, and MONDRAGON all placed their trust in our technology, and since then the relationship has been excellent. Beyond the investment itself, we are jointly developing technical solutions aimed at the market. We believe this relationship can become even stronger in the years ahead.
How has Wooptix evolved since then?
Wooptix has successfully validated its technology within the semiconductor industry and is now focused on establishing itself as a supplier of sub-nanometric metrology equipment for the sector.
Collaboration with MONDRAGON and its cooperatives can play a key role in accelerating our long-term integration into semiconductor fabs.
How does the medium- and long-term future look for Wooptix?
With the opening of new facilities and expansion into key semiconductor regions, the company aims to strengthen its international presence and market positioning, ensuring the best possible experience for customers and partners worldwide.
Developing new solutions that address market needs will remain fundamental to the company’s evolution over the coming years, always listening to customers and anticipating emerging technological demands.
You have recently announced several major developments to support growth. Which would you highlight?
One of the most important milestones has been the start of construction on our new cleanroom facility in Tenerife, announced last April. These facilities will support both research and development activities and equipment assembly, strengthening our capabilities at a pivotal stage of the company’s growth.
In addition, we have opened new offices in Grenoble, France, one of Europe’s leading semiconductor hubs. This presence will enhance our position in Europe, facilitate new collaborations with strategic industry players, and bring us even closer to our customers and technology partners.
Last but certainly not least, we highlight the launch of Phemet® in November 2025, our new metrology platform designed to address the increasingly demanding challenges of the semiconductor industry. This launch represents a strategic milestone for Wooptix, enabling us to expand our technology portfolio, 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 deliver real impact for the industry. With this advancement, we are reinforcing our position in a rapidly growing market and laying the foundations for a new phase of sustainable growth.
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