Optical Quantum Computer Startup OptQC Raises 7 Billion Yen from NTT and Others, Surpassing 20 Billion Yen in Total Funding

Overview of Funding

OptQC, a deep-tech startup aiming to commercialize optical quantum computers, has completed a Series A2 round of funding totaling 7 billion yen through a third-party allotment of shares led by NTT Corporation. With this latest funding, the company's cumulative total raised, including government subsidies, has surpassed 20 billion yen.

About OptQC, Inc.

Established in 2024, OptQC is built upon more than 25 years of optical quantum technology research developed in the laboratory of Professor Akira Furusawa at the Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo. The optical quantum approach is attracting attention as a next-generation computing infrastructure because it can operate at room temperature and normal pressure, while offering high-speed computation and excellent compatibility with optical communication infrastructure.

Purpose of Funding and Future Outlook

The newly raised funds will be primarily allocated to the following two areas:

1. Research and development of next-generation optical quantum processors: Following the first-generation machine operational since July 2026, the company will drive the development of a 10,000-qubit scale processor that boosts computing performance to 100 times the scale of the current machine.

2. Strengthening recruitment: In addition to researchers and engineers in quantum optics, electrical/mechanical/control engineering, and software development, the company will accelerate the hiring of business development talent and expand its organizational structure.

Going forward, OptQC aims to achieve societal implementation by collaborating with leading enterprise partners across various industries who have participated in this investment round.

List of Underwriters (Investors)

This round includes lead investor NTT Corporation, alongside a wide range of corporate venture funds from manufacturing, telecommunications, finance, and real estate, as well as independent venture capitalists and public institutions.

• Lead Investor: NTT Corporation
• Corporate Investors: Canon Marketing Japan Inc., Kyocera Corporation, Shimadzu Corporation, Sumisho Venture Partners Corp., Nissei Capital Co., Ltd., Mizuho Capital Co., Ltd., Mitsubishi Estate Co., Ltd., Mitsubishi Electric Corporation, Mitsubishi UFJ Capital Co., Ltd., ANA Holdings Inc., KDDI Corporation, NGK Insulators, Ltd., SBI Holdings, Inc., SMBC Venture Capital Co., Ltd.
• Independent Venture Capitalists: Global Brain Corporation, DeNA Ventures, Mirai Creation Fund III, Mobile Internet Capital, Inc., SBI Investment Co., Ltd.
• Public Institution: Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST)