en.Wedoany.com Reported - CCRAFT, a Swiss company specializing in photonic chips, has recently completed a funding round and secured public support totaling $11.3 million to accelerate the construction of an industrial-scale manufacturing line for thin-film lithium niobate (TFLN) photonic chips in Neuchâtel.
In this funding round, CCRAFT raised $7.8 million (6.3 million Swiss francs) in equity financing, led by QBIT Capital, with participation from Zürcher Kantonalbank, Apprecia Capital, Spacewalk, Blue Wonder Ventures, and a European AI infrastructure operator. Additionally, the company received over $3.5 million (3 million Swiss francs) in public funds and state government support. The proceeds will support the company's technology roadmap for industrial production lines, unlocking additional manufacturing capacity to serve key customers.
As global AI infrastructure accelerates, the market demand for next-generation photonic chips that can transmit data faster and consume less energy continues to grow. However, industrial-scale manufacturing of TFLN-based photonic chips remains challenging. CCRAFT is working to realize this manufacturing capability, with its production platform in Neuchâtel aiming to expand capacity to 2,000 wafers per month by 2030.
"CCRAFT was established to industrialize and commercialize the technological foundation accumulated by CSEM over many years. Today, we operate the world's first independent TFLN photonic chip foundry, producing for customers across four continents. The next step is to leverage our first-mover advantage to scale production and establish a global leadership position in this emerging market," said Hamed Sattari, co-founder and CEO of CCRAFT. He noted that Europe has lost competitiveness in traditional semiconductor manufacturing, but in the photonic chip sector, the competitive landscape is still undecided. Switzerland possesses world-leading technological capabilities, and the key is to translate this advantage into industrial production and global supply chain opportunities.
The global photonic integrated circuit market is estimated at $15 to $20 billion, with the addressable market for TFLN photonic chips expected to reach several billion dollars by 2030. Geopolitical factors in technology and supply chains have also enhanced Switzerland's strategic relevance as a manufacturing location.
CCRAFT's technological foundation stems from over six years of R&D at CSEM in Neuchâtel. Previously, the team manufactured photonic chips for over 40 partners worldwide through CSEM's pilot production line. CCRAFT is now advancing the commercialization of this technology and scaling up to high-volume production, with CSEM continuing to support this transition as a key technology partner.
"We recognized the potential of thin-film lithium niobate photonics years ago and invested early in developing this technology platform. As demand for next-generation photonic chips continues to grow, CCRAFT demonstrates how long-term research can successfully translate into industrial manufacturing and economic impact," said Alexandre Pauchard, CEO of CSEM.
