The Dublin company’s patented photonic chip technology generates ultra-pure wireless signals for AI data centers, satellite communications and next-generation mobile networks.
Dublin-based integrated imaging company Pilot Photonics has been approved for a recommended investment of up to €10.4m from the Horizon Europe European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator, one of Europe’s most competitive deeptech funding schemes.
The company has developed a patented photonic chip technology that uses laser light to generate ultra-pure wireless signals, designed for AI data centers, satellite communications, and 5G and 6G mobile networks.
Unlike traditional electronic circuits, photonic circuits offer greater power efficiency, higher bandwidth signal processing, and power that conventional electricity cannot.
Demand for photonic integrated circuits is already growing rapidly in two key areas. Data servers have adopted the technology to meet the bandwidth demands of AI, while the commercial space industry has turned to photonic chips to cut the size, weight, and power consumption of its systems. Pilot Photonics says it has received validation from leading global customers in both markets.
The integration of photonic components into compact, scalable chips also lowers the barrier to entry in industries that depend on these capabilities, making the technology both commercially and technologically important.
The EIC Accelerator funding will support the company’s next phase of growth, which includes product qualification, high volume production, and expansion of the team in Ireland and internationally.
William Oppermann, CEO of Pilot Photonics, said that the selection by the European Innovation Council is “a great endorsement of Pilot Photonics’ technology, team, and commercial ambition”.
“This support gives us the platform to go from a breakthrough to an industrial hub, build a strong team in Ireland, make our products suitable for global customers, and establish the supply chain needed to compete internationally,” he said.
Minister for Business, Tourism and Employment Peter Burke described the investment as “testament to the innovation and dedication of the Pilot Photonics team”, pointing to the company’s contribution to Europe’s digital sovereignty across 6G, satellite systems, and secure communications.
Enterprise Ireland, which leads Horizon Europe’s National Support Network in Ireland, supported Pilot Photonics through its EIC National Contact Point Support team. Kevin Burke, national director of Horizon Europe at Enterprise Ireland, said the award was “international recognition of Pilot Photonics’ technological achievements” and the group’s progress in bringing products to market.
The EIC Accelerator is part of the EU’s Horizon Europe 2021 to 2027 Research and Innovation Programme. It provides deeptech startups and scaleups with an integrated financing package that includes capital funding of up to €2.5m and equity investments from €500,000 to €10m.
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