Dutch independent research organisation TNO has announced its investment in the Irish quantum startup Equal1, marking the first time it has directly funded a non-TNO spin-off. The investment amount, however, remains undisclosed.
This move reinforces the Netherlands’ position as a global quantum hub and aligns with the National Technology Strategy. In addition to financial support, TNO will provide technical expertise to help Equal1 scale up.
To maximise collaboration, Equal1 is relocating part of its R&D activities to the Netherlands. TNO’s private holding company is investing in this move.
World’s first hybrid quantum-classical computing chip
Equal1, an Irish company expanding in the Netherlands, is developing a full-stack quantum computer with an AI layer using semiconductor technology.
Equal1’s UnityQ, the first hybrid quantum-classical chip, integrates all quantum components for improved performance and efficiency. Its quantum processor, based on silicon spin qubits co-developed by TNO and the Delft University of Technology, has the potential to enable breakthroughs in climate modeling, finance, and AI.
Founded in 2018 as a University College Dublin spin-off, Equal1 employs around 45 people. Unlike other quantum startups, it prioritises a market-ready product over purely scientific research, leveraging its strong semiconductor foundation.
To enhance its capabilities, Equal1 is relocating part of its R&D to the Netherlands, benefiting from TNO’s expertise in nanofabrication and Delft University of Technology’s advanced materials and infrastructure.
The company is based in Delft’s House of Quantum, a national campus for quantum startups.
Jason Lynch, CEO of Equal1, says, “TNO’s investment in Equal1 accelerates the realisation of our vision to build rack-mounted quantum computers that can scale to millions of high-performance qubits on a single quantum chip.”
“TNO is a leader in the field of quantum. We are grateful for their support as this collaboration is a milestone in our roadmap to developing the world’s most scalable, practical and energy-efficient quantum computers.”
Driving growth in the quantum ecosystem
TNO aims to accelerate the growth of startups and scale-ups in fields where it conducts research by fostering a network of deeptech companies. Through closer collaboration, TNO strengthens the ecosystem of potential customers and partners for the Dutch high-tech industry.
Analyses show that too few deeptech startups scale successfully and that scale-ups grow more slowly than their American counterparts. TNO seeks to address this challenge and drive faster growth in the sector.
Tjark Tjin-A-Tsoi, CEO of TNO, says, “This investment in Equal1 is the first concrete illustration of our new strategy to support promising deeptech startups and scale-ups and to strengthen the Dutch high-tech ecosystem.”
“In this way, TNO helps companies to make a global impact faster and thereby strengthen the Dutch economy, accelerate transitions and promote employment.”
Brief about TNO
TNO, the largest independent research and technology organisation in the Netherlands, conducts research and develops innovations. It coordinates national and international collaborations to create technological and methodological advancements that support the Dutch economy.
The firm focuses on safety, sustainability, health, and digitalisation, providing government and society with scientific research and data for decision-making.
TNO aims to increase Dutch R&D and innovation investments to 3 per cent of GDP, a 30 per cent rise from 2022, primarily led by businesses.
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