C12, a French quantum computing startup founded by twin brothers, raises $19.4 million
French startup C12 raises $19.4 million to advance quantum computing using carbon nanotubes for scalable, energy-efficient systems.
C12, a French quantum computing startup founded by twin brothers Pierre and Matthieu Desjardins, recently raised €18 million ($19.4 million) in funding. The company was originally founded in 2020 as a spin-off from the Physics Laboratory of the École Normale Supérieure and focuses on developing quantum computers using carbon nanotubes. This innovative approach contrasts with other leading research teams that typically use superconducting materials like aluminum.
C12's unique process involves a patented nano-assembly technique to place carbon nanotubes on silicon chips, making their method distinct and potentially more scalable than traditional approaches. Currently, the company's production facility in Paris manufactures about one chip per week, focusing on creating chips with one or two qubits. Although C12 hasn't yet produced a fully functional quantum computer, they are making significant progress in validating fundamental elements.
In addition to its technical advancements, C12 is building its business ecosystem through partnerships, including one with Air Liquide. They have also developed an emulator called Callisto that allows developers to run quantum code on classical computers, preparing for the future availability of quantum computers. The startup plans to use the recent funding to expand industrial partnerships and pursue the goal of performing quantum operations between qubits separated by tens of micrometers.