University of Tokyo-Backed Optical Quantum Computer Startup OptQC Secures Major Funding to Accelerate R&D

Overview of the Funding

OptQC, a startup developing optical quantum computers, has announced that it has secured additional funding from the Global Brain 9 Growth Fund, managed by Global Brain Corporation, and the Kyocera Venture Innovation Fund No. 1 acting as underwriters. This funding round also saw participation from the KDDI Open Innovation Fund V, ME Innovation Investment Limited Partnership, ANA Future Creation Fund, Canon Marketing Japan MIRAI Fund, and the Shimadzu Future Innovation Fund.

About OptQC

OptQC was founded based on pioneering optical quantum information processing research from the University of Tokyo. At its core is cluster state generation technology utilizing a proprietary "Time-Domain Multiplexing (TDM) method," enabling the development of hardware capable of large-scale quantum information processing with a minimal number of optical components. In July 2026, the company commenced operation of its first unit, "MoQuren," at the National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST). Furthermore, OptQC operates the industrial application ecosystem "HIQALI," driving initiatives toward the societal implementation of quantum computers.

Future Outlook

The newly raised funds will be dedicated to accelerating the research and development of optical quantum computers and expanding their industrial applications. The optical approach boasts distinct advantages such as scalability, room-temperature operation, and compatibility with existing optical communication technologies, making it a highly promising next-generation computing infrastructure. Moving forward, OptQC plans to deepen collaboration with its investing CVC partners and further accelerate ecosystem formation through industrial alliances, including a strategic capital and business partnership with NTT.