ZuriQ raises $25.5M to scale its breakthrough 2D quantum architecture

Swiss quantum computing
startup ZuriQ has raised $25.5 million in seed funding to accelerate the
development of its trapped-ion quantum processors. The round was led by
Quantonation, with participation from Forward.one, Extantia, Firgun Ventures,
and existing investors. The investment follows the company’s $4.2 million
pre-seed round in 2025.

Founded as a spin-out from
ETH Zürich, ZuriQ is developing a new generation of trapped-ion quantum
processors designed to overcome the scalability limitations of conventional
architectures. While most trapped-ion quantum computers rely on one-dimensional
ion chains connected through complex junctions, ZuriQ has developed a native
two-dimensional architecture based on Penning micro-traps.

By replacing the
oscillating electric fields used in conventional systems with a static magnetic
field, the company’s architecture enables ions to move freely across the chip,
increasing connectivity while simplifying scaling.

ZuriQ has already
demonstrated its approach with a working prototype developed in collaboration
with researchers at ETH Zürich. The demonstrator features a three-by-three
array of nine individually controlled ions, representing the largest
two-dimensional trapped-ion array of its kind to date. The underlying chips
were fabricated with manufacturing partner Infineon using established
semiconductor production processes, supporting the company’s strategy of
scaling the technology through existing manufacturing infrastructure.

The company is now focused
on increasing the number of qubits its processors can support to enable
commercially viable quantum systems.

Dr Pavel Hrmo, co-founder
and CEO of ZuriQ, said the company deliberately pursued a two-dimensional
architecture from the outset, believing it offers a more scalable alternative
to conventional trapped-ion designs and a faster path towards industrial applications.

ZuriQ will use the new
funding to expand its team, accelerate research and development, scale chip
fabrication, and increase the number of qubits supported by its quantum
processor architecture.