Berlin-based startup Akhetonics, which develops all-optical, general-purpose processors using photonics instead of electronics, has raised €6 million in a funding round led by Matterwave Ventures, with support from 468 Capital and Bayern Kapital. The funds will be used to develop prototypes for the company's all-optical chips.
- Founded in 2021 by Leonardo Del Bino and Michael Kissner, Akhetonics specializes in developing all-optical processors that replace conventional electronic components with photonic systems for data processing.
- Their processors, which use light instead of electrons, offer superior speed and significantly lower energy consumption than conventional chips.
- The company combines digital, analog, and quantum photonics into a single processor, utilizing photonic integrated circuits (PICs) that can be manufactured using mature, cost-effective semiconductor technologies.
Details of the deal
- The investment was led by Matterwave Ventures, a Munich-based firm that has backed over 60 companies with initial investments ranging between €1 million to €4 million and follow-up rounds exceeding €10 million per portfolio company.
"We are excited to partner with Michael Kissner Leonardo Del Bino and the exceptional Akhetonics team as they work towards bringing the first full-scale all-optical processor to the market," Matterwave Ventures' team, commented on LinkedIn.
- The funding round also received backing from Berlin-based VC 468 Capital, German Bayern Kapital, and existing investors Runa Capital, Rheingau Founders, Interface Capital, Constructor Capital, and several business angels.
- Akhetonics will use the funds to grow its team to 30 people and develop prototypes for its all-optical, general-purpose chips.
