Samuele D'Esposito and Matteo Prati, co-founders of Modena-based startup Synaptix, have launched a crowdfunding campaign on GoFundMe to support their participation in the Silicon Valley Fellowship, a programme that will give them the opportunity to engage with one of the world’s most advanced tech ecosystems.
About Synaptix
Synaptix develops software and hardware infrastructure designed to bring artificial intelligence into engineering processes and the physical world. Its flagship product, SYNET, is an AI-native platform that supports engineers with testing, analysis, validation and optimisation of complex systems, bringing together data from vehicles, machinery, sensors, laboratory equipment and simulation models within a single environment.
The software platform is complemented by hardware devices developed in-house to collect data and interface with physical systems and automotive and industrial networks.
The technology builds on the team’s experience in the automotive sector and Formula Student. Synaptix’s target market includes automotive, mobility and industrial companies, OEMs, engineering firms and testing laboratories. The startup was founded by a team of engineers and developers from the University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, at the heart of Italy’s Motor Valley.
The goals of the Silicon Valley programme
The programme is designed to accelerate Synaptix’s growth through direct engagement with entrepreneurs, experts, technology companies and investors in Silicon Valley. Key objectives include:
- strengthening the founders’ expertise in AI, product development and validation, entrepreneurship, fundraising and international expansion;
- validating SYNET’s positioning in the US market by engaging with companies and potential customers in the automotive, mobility and industrial sectors, while identifying initial use cases for a market-entry strategy;
- building relationships with founders, technology companies and investors across the ecosystem, creating opportunities for partnerships and business development;
- refining the company’s business model and fundraising strategy through discussions with international investors and deep-tech startups;
- gathering expert feedback on SYNET to accelerate its development.
The ultimate goal is to make the experience a concrete first step towards Synaptix’s international expansion, while strengthening the team’s skills and expertise.
The fundraising campaign
Launched on 10 September 2026, the campaign aims to raise €8,200 to cover the costs of the Silicon Valley Fellowship: the programme itself (€4,400), return flights (approximately €1,500), accommodation (approximately €1,200), insurance and other expenses (€600), and GoFundMe fees (approximately €500).
The two founders are already covering part of the costs themselves, but have launched the campaign to ensure that financial constraints do not prevent them from taking part in the experience.
How to support Synaptix
You can support the campaign by making a donation or sharing it through the official GoFundMe page.
