Universal Quantum, a UK startup building quantum computers, has raised US$100 million in a series A round to expand research hubs in Germany and Singapore.

DCVC and Firgun Ventures co-led the round, with participation from Singapore state investment arm EDBI and Roblox CEO David Baszucki.

The University of Sussex spin-out did not disclose its valuation.

It is developing large-scale trapped-ion quantum computers, which use charged atoms and lasers for quantum calculations.

Universal Quantum has won German government contracts, including a previously disclosed 67 million euros (US$75.1 million) award from the German Aerospace Center, or DLR, to build a fully scalable trapped-ion quantum computer in Germany.

The Singapore expansion also fits the country’s broader quantum strategy.

Singapore has said it will invest about S$300 million (US$234 million) in quantum research, talent, and industry partnerships.

Governments are increasing investment in quantum technology, including a US$2 billion commitment from the US announced in May, and a 1 billion pounds (US$1.32 billion) pledge from the UK earlier that year.

For now, quantum machines remain mainly research tools.

🔗 Source: Bloomberg