Latest Highlights in European Technology
1. SPRIND and NADI launch €40M challenge to reinvent European chip design
Germany’s SPRIND and the Netherlands’ NADI have launched a €40 million programme focused on radically innovating chip design processes across Europe. The AI-Native Chip Design Challenge aims to cut chip development time drastically, reducing years to mere weeks, thereby bolstering Europe’s AI capabilities. This programme expects to address the structural bottlenecks currently hampering AI-driven chip development in Europe, ultimately enhancing the continent's position in the global semiconductor market.
2. CIOC Energy secures €3M for solar and battery optimisation
Belgian energy optimisation firm CIOC Energy has successfully raised €3 million from renewable energy developer CleverNett. Founded in late 2023, CIOC offers a unique platform that integrates monitoring, control, and trading of energy from solar panels and batteries. The new funding will support the company's expansion into international markets such as the Netherlands, Germany, and Romania.
3. Noxtua raises more than €100M as C.H.BECK takes majority stake in German legaltech
Legal AI startup Noxtua has secured over €100 million in a Series C funding round, gaining significant backing from German publisher C.H.BECK. This funding will accelerate Noxtua’s growth in the legal tech space, providing comprehensive legal writing solutions through AI. With over 30,000 active users, Noxtua is rapidly establishing itself as a major player in Europe’s legal technology landscape.
4. NATO Innovation Fund co-leads €11M investment in Swedish defence tech outfit Terasi
Swedish startup Terasi has secured €11 million in investment, co-led by the NATO Innovation Fund. This funding will help Terasi scale its advanced communication technology, crucial for military and emergency communications. The startup's portable tech enables secure, high-speed wireless links, addressing modern defence communication needs and enhancing Europe's defence tech capabilities.
5. Verda raises $189M to advance its AI cloud and expand compute capacity
Verda, a Helsinki-based technology firm, has raised a substantial $189 million to scale its full-stack AI cloud infrastructure. The funding will bolster its compute capabilities, addressing the high demand for AI workloads. With over $450 million total funding and significant growth anticipated, Verda aims to reduce carbon footprints while expanding its international footprint.
