Bengaluru-based deeptech startup QNu Labs, a pioneer in quantum cybersecurity, has raised ₹60 crore in a Series A funding round, led by the National Quantum Mission (NQM) with an investment of ₹25 crore. This marks the first strategic investment by the Indian government in a private company specializing in quantum communication technologies.
A Major Leap in Quantum-Safe Security Infrastructure
QNu Labs, incubated at IIT Madras, is among the few global players offering full-stack quantum-safe security solutions, including quantum key distribution (QKD) systems and post-quantum cryptography (PQC) tools. These technologies aim to secure critical infrastructure from future threats posed by quantum computers, which could potentially break current encryption protocols used across banking, defence, telecom, and healthcare sectors.
“We’re essentially building the seatbelts of tomorrow, today,” said Sunil Gupta, CEO of QNu Labs, referring to the company’s proactive approach in addressing the evolving cybersecurity landscape.
Growing Enterprise Adoption Across Key Sectors
QNu Labs has already deployed its solutions for the Indian defence sector, and is now witnessing increased traction in BFSI, telecom, and healthcare industries. Gupta shared that the company has four to five enterprise clients and is expecting strategic partnerships with leading banks and telecom providers soon.
The startup’s momentum has been reinforced by global developments, particularly the US National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) formalizing post-quantum cryptography standards in August 2024. Gupta termed this event a “turning point” for mainstream quantum cybersecurity adoption.
Backed by Deeptech Investors and Strategic Government Support
The ₹60 crore round also saw participation from Lucky Investment, Speciale Invest, Tenacity Ventures, and Singularity AMC. To date, QNu Labs has raised over $20 million across multiple funding rounds.
Vishesh Rajaram, Managing Partner at Speciale Invest, praised the startup’s methodical approach:
“We’ve seen QNu Labs build a truly world-class quantum security stack, piece by piece. This round is not only a win for the company but a pivotal moment for India’s position in global quantum technology.”
Scaling for Global Impact
With fresh capital in hand, QNu Labs plans to:
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Scale commercial operations across domestic and international markets
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Expand R&D efforts in quantum cryptography
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Form global strategic alliances
The startup’s hybrid hardware-software quantum stack positions it ahead of most global competitors who typically focus on only one layer of the solution. This edge could enable QNu Labs to lead India’s efforts in the global race for quantum-secure communication infrastructure.