Deep-tech startup QNu Labs has raised over Rs 350 crore, including Rs 200 crore through a Series A1 venture funding round led by the National Quantum Mission and venture capital firm Speciale Invest. Additionally, the company has received approval for Rs 150 crore in convertible debt under the research, development, and innovation (RDI) fund.
With the latest funding, QNu Labs has secured Rs 375 crore in venture funding so far.
The company will use a portion of the fresh capital to build a 2,000-km live quantum key distribution (QKD) network connecting Bengaluru and Delhi under the National Quantum Mission. Furthermore, the network will aim to secure critical financial systems located along the route.
QNu Labs, an IIT Madras-incubated company, develops cybersecurity and communication hardware and software solutions based on quantum physics. As countries increasingly prepare for the emergence of full-scale quantum computers, organisations are working to protect critical infrastructure and communications from potential threats to existing encryption systems.
“Enterprises and governments worldwide are preparing for the transition to quantum-safe infrastructure, and India’s National Quantum Mission is setting an aggressive timeline of 2029,” said Sunil Gupta, co-founder, QNu Labs.
Speaking on the company’s plans, he said QNu Labs is developing an indigenous quantum security platform for the Indian armed forces to secure forward bases, data centres and tactical communications.
“We are actively engaging with 20 banks, as regulators are increasingly pushing for quantum compliance. We are also targeting and developing partnerships with telecom players, critical institutions and utilities, and manufacturers to deploy chips onto drones and satellites,” he said.
Meanwhile, the National Quantum Mission has contributed Rs 25 crore through its IITM C-DOT Samgnya Technologies Foundation, a quantum communication thematic hub operating under the mission.
Other venture capital participants include Gaja Capital, which invested Rs 35 crore, along with Sony Innovation Fund and Artha Ventures.
QNu Labs plans to use the fresh capital to accelerate product development and expand its sales across domestic and international markets. In particular, the company is focusing on the US and Australia as part of its global growth strategy.
Gupta identified the US as a major focus market and said the company has established an independent entity in the country to address growing regulatory urgency.
Looking ahead, Gupta expects QNu Labs to grow at approximately 40% annually. Furthermore, the company aims to generate Rs 300–400 crore in revenue over the next few years as it expands its quantum cybersecurity and communication solutions across multiple sectors.
