Nu Quantum

Nu Quantum is a quantum networking start-up that is building the entanglement fabric essential to scaling quantum computers. The company is advancing in the field of quantum photonics to enhance quantum communications, sensing, imaging, and computing. It combines novel materials with traditional semiconductor photonics to achieve high performance at the single-photon level. This is achieved by integrating innovative materials with conventional semiconductor photonics, enabling superior performance at the single-photon level.

Nu Quantum’s technology encompasses the following: 1) Single-photon components: These function at room temperature, over other technologies that necessitate cryogenic-cooling and substantial operational expenses. 

2) Single-photon links: Leveraging the unique single-photon components, Nu Quantum is developing the ability to efficiently transfer quantum states, paving the way for a connected quantum future. 

3) Quantum random number generation (QRNG): This technology employs the measurement of single photons to generate streams of true random numbers, which are then used to produce high-quality cryptographic keys.

Key customers and partnerships

In January 2024, Nu Quantum announced a GBP 2.3 million contract from Innovate UK to develop a modular, rack-mount quantum data center prototype called LYRA, in collaboration with Cisco as a prospective end user. LYRA delivers rack-mount modules for control and optical interfacing, allowing in-field upgrades for different quantum computer modalities and wavelengths. 

Funding and financials

In November 2023, the company raised GBP 7 million (~USD 8.5 million) in a pre-Series A funding round co-led by Amadeus Capital Partners, Expeditions Fund, and IQ Capital. The funds were allocated to continue the company's recruitment activity and strengthen key academic and corporate partnerships.