Firgun Ventures is investing 160 million in Quantum Motion, a London-based company building quantum computers using the same 300mm silicon CMOS technology found in everyday laptops and phones. This Series C funding, led by DCVC and Kembara, marks Firgun’s first European investment from its 250 million Quantum fund and signals growing confidence in scalable quantum computing solutions. Quantum Motion’s approach aims to move beyond specialized materials, potentially accelerating the path toward commercially viable, fault-tolerant machines with millions of qubits; the company deployed its first full-stack silicon quantum computer for research at the National Quantum Computing Centre in September. “Scaling quantum computers is critical to unlocking the power that could help solve some of the world’s biggest challenges,” said Dr. Kris Naudts, co-founder of Firgun Ventures.
Firgun Ventures Leads 160M Series C for Quantum Motion
A 250 million quantum fund signals substantial investor confidence in the burgeoning field as Firgun Ventures commits to scaling quantum computing capabilities with a 160 million Series C investment in Quantum Motion. This marks Firgun’s inaugural European investment, following earlier backing of North American quantum firms Photonic Inc. and Quantum Elements, and demonstrates a strategic expansion beyond its initial geographic focus. Unlike many quantum computing approaches reliant on specialized materials, Quantum Motion is utilizing established 300mm silicon CMOS technology, the same foundation as conventional laptop and smartphone processors. This decision could significantly reduce manufacturing hurdles and accelerate the development of commercially viable quantum systems.
The Series C round, co-led by DCVC and Kembara, also includes participation from Porsche Automobile Holding SE, highlighting growing interest from traditionally non-tech industries in the potential of quantum computing for applications ranging from materials science to advanced automotive design. Quantum Motion’s technology is already undergoing evaluation at the National Quantum Computing Centre, following the unveiling of what the company claims is the world’s first full-stack quantum computer built on standard silicon chips. Founded by Professor John Morton (UCL) and Professor Simon Benjamin (University of Oxford), Quantum Motion currently employs over 100 people across four countries and was recently selected for Stage B of the U.S. Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency’s Quantum Benchmarking Initiative. The company has previously secured over £62 million in funding, including a £42 million Series B round led by Bosch Ventures and Porsche SE, fueling its rapid expansion and processor development.
Silicon CMOS Technology Enables Scalable Quantum Computing
The pursuit of scalable quantum computing has largely focused on overcoming material science hurdles, but a growing number of companies are now leveraging existing semiconductor manufacturing infrastructure to accelerate progress. This approach represents a significant departure from strategies reliant on specialized materials and fabrication facilities, potentially streamlining production and reducing costs as the industry moves toward commercially viable systems capable of supporting millions of qubits. Beyond financial backing, the investment signals growing confidence in Quantum Motion’s strategy and the potential for silicon-based quantum computers to achieve fault tolerance. Porsche Automobile Holding SE’s investment also demonstrates interest from traditional automotive players, likely anticipating applications in materials science and optimization problems.
Scaling quantum computers is critical to unlocking the power that could help solve some of the world’s biggest challenges, from secure communications to breakthroughs in healthcare and climate science.
Dr Kris Naudts, co-founder of Firgun Ventures
Quantum Motion Advances with DARPA & NQCC Deployment
Quantum Motion, a London-based developer of full-stack quantum computers, is expanding its reach following a 160 million Series C funding round, demonstrating investor confidence in its silicon-based approach to scalability. This focus on established fabrication techniques positions the company uniquely within a rapidly evolving field, allowing for integration with existing semiconductor infrastructure. This deployment signifies a transition from theoretical designs to tangible hardware accessible for scientific exploration. DCVC and Kembara co-led the Series C investment, with Firgun participating, marking its first European venture and signaling a growing commitment to quantum technologies.
