Pava Partners advised SaxonQ, the pioneer in mobile quantum computing, on a seven-figure investment by TGFS Technologiegründerfonds Sachsen (“TGFS”).

With this investment, TGFS is providing targeted momentum for the next development phase of Leipzig-based deep-tech startup SaxonQ, strengthening the key innovator in the development and scaling of quantum technologies.

Simultaneously, SaxonQ is preparing a larger funding round to accelerate technological advancement and miniaturization, achieve full integration of quantum processors on a single chip, and further develop the underlying production technologies, such as single-ion implantation. The goal is to accelerate the development and industrial application of quantum computing in Saxony and secure the region’s innovation leadership. The active use of SaxonQ’s technology and recent awards underscore the company’s strong position for future growth. “Our technology significantly lowers the barriers to entry for the use of quantum hardware and could be a real game changer for applications in AI, logistics, and medical research. The first systems are already in productive use, including at Fraunhofer IWU and the Deutsches Zentrum für Luft- und Raumfahrt. And the scientific environment here in Leipzig, the cradle of quantum mechanics, couldn’t be better for advancing quantum technologies with the best minds,” explains Prof. Dr. Marius Grundmann, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of SaxonQ. “Quantum computing is already a reality. We were probably the first company to demonstrate real-world applications ranging from quantum chemistry to image processing live at the Hannover Messe. TGFS’s commitment demonstrates its confidence in our team and our roadmap,” continues Co-CEO Dr. Frank Schlichting.

SaxonQ develops mobile quantum computers based on diamond chips with NV technology that operate at room temperature – a unique selling point. Conventional quantum computers require extreme cooling to -273 °C, ultra-stable laboratory environments, and specialized, complex infrastructure, resulting in high investment and operating costs, limited mobility, and challenging integration into existing process chains. Additionally, issues such as instability, sensitivity to vibrations, and complex calibration procedures pose significant hurdles for real-world deployment.

SaxonQ addresses these challenges with its advanced NV technology. Here, the qubits, the computing units of the quantum computer, are embedded in the diamond lattice. The system operates without cooling at room temperature and enables robust performance even outside of laboratories. The compact, mobile unit, which will be continuously miniaturized in the coming years, can already be operated in any office via a standard power outlet.

SaxonQ was founded in 2021 by Prof. Dr. Marius Grundmann and Prof. Dr. Jan Meijer from the University of Leipzig. The company is now managed by Prof. Marius Grundmann and Dr. Frank Schlichting, an industry-experienced CEO with extensive management responsibility in the fields of IT, semiconductors, automotive, and energy. The combination of scientific expertise, management experience, and quantum computer products already delivered shows that SaxonQ is already in a position to effectively advance the industrial application of quantum computing in a rapidly growing market.

“With SaxonQ, we are deliberately investing in a key technology that further strengthens Saxony as an innovation hub,” states Sören Schuster, Managing Director of TGFS. “The systems already in use clearly show that quantum computing is not just a research topic, but real-world practice. That’s exactly what we’re building on: we see significant potential in further development—from new architectural approaches to scaling production capacity—to drive applications in AI, energy, logistics, and healthcare from Saxony.”

SaxonQ on Pava Partners

“Pava Partners’ deep understanding of quantum technology and the dynamics of our market makes them an exceptional sparring partner. Together with Pava Partners, we were able to focus our efforts and win TGFS as a strategically suitable initial financier, which gives our growth an additional boost,” says Dr. Frank Schlichting, Co-CEO of SaxonQ.

About SaxonQ 

SaxonQ, a Leipzig-based startup founded in 2021, develops and manufactures mobile, industrial-grade quantum computers—moving away from traditional room-sized systems toward compact, flexible units. SaxonQ was established with the vision of bringing quantum computing out of research labs and into industrial applications, making access to high-performance quantum hardware and software in Europe significantly easier and more sustainable.

The key lies in a proven process derived from semiconductor technology. Using this approach, the qubits—the fundamental computing units of a quantum computer—are created on a diamond chip just a few millimeters in size. Unlike conventional quantum computers, these processors require no cooling or complex infrastructure and are highly resistant to interference. The system is already in use by major customers and aims to enable entirely new applications for quantum computing, such as artificial intelligence, autonomous driving, and, in a few years, even integration into smartphones.

More information at www.saxonq.com

About TGFS Technologiegründerfonds Sachsen 

TGFS Technologiegründerfonds Sachsen provides equity capital to technology-oriented founders during the seed and startup phases. The fund was first launched in 2008 by the Free State of Saxony (including ERDF funding) and regional financial institutions, and has since supported over 100 startups. In 2023, TGFS entered its third fund generation. TGFS focuses on young, innovative, technology-driven companies based in Saxony, particularly in sectors such as ICT, semiconductor and microsystems technology, medical technology, life sciences, environmental and energy technology, and new media.

More information at www.cfh.de/en/tgfs-start