Microsoft Partner Photonic Raises $131 Million for Quantum Push

Photonic Inc., a Vancouver-based quantum computing startup, secured C$180 million ($131 million) in new funding, boosting its valuation beyond $1 billion. The round included investments from Royal Bank of Canada and Telus Corp. Microsoft Corp. remains a key backer, reinforcing its strategic partnership with Photonic as the startup scales its quantum technology. The company now has C$375 million in total funding. CEO Paul Terry confirmed the valuation surge but declined to specify exact figures, citing competitive sensitivity. The funding reflects growing confidence in Photonic’s quantum computing approach. The startup specializes in photonic-based quantum systems, a technology seen as a potential alternative to superconducting and trapped-ion qubits. Its distributed architecture aims to solve scalability challenges. The investment aligns with Canada’s push to become a quantum computing hub, leveraging partnerships between tech firms, financial institutions, and telecom providers.