Atom Computing , a Berkeley, CA-based developer of neutral-atom quantum computers, has raised $100 million in Series C funding led by Third Point Ventures with participation from DCVC and Cisco Investments. The company builds gate-based systems using optically trapped ytterbium atoms that support over 1,200 physical qubits, all-to-all connectivity, and features for quantum error correction. The capital will accelerate deployment of fault-tolerant, utility-scale systems including on-premises installations.
Neutral Atoms Gain Momentum in Quantum Race
The timing aligns with surging investor interest in neutral-atom approaches. QuEra Computing raised $230 million Series B in February 2025, while Infleqtion secured a $100 million Series C in June 2025. Atom's focus on gate-based systems with demonstrated error correction sets it apart from analog-focused peers.
Error Correction Milestone Defines New Phase
Current quantum systems suffer high error rates that limit practical use. Atom Computing recently became only the second company worldwide to demonstrate full quantum error correction using a toric code on neutral atoms, following its 2023 milestone of surpassing 1,000 qubits. This achievement enables logical qubits whose error rates decrease as more physical qubits are added.
On-Premises Systems Target Enterprise Needs
Atom sells complete on-premises platforms rather than cloud access alone. Its AC1000 system fits in roughly 600 square feet and integrates with classical infrastructure through partnerships with Microsoft, NVIDIA, and Cisco. The first commercial deployment, a logical-qubit system called Magne, is heading to Denmark's QuNorth initiative.
"Today, we have shown that practical quantum error correction can be achieved with our neutral-atom technology. This is the clearest demonstration yet that neutral atoms are highly competitive with superconducting systems."
Government Backing Signals Strategic Value
Third Point Ventures led the round alongside existing investor DCVC and new participant Cisco Investments. The U.S. Department of Commerce simultaneously committed another $100 million through a CHIPS Act letter of intent, bringing total recent capital past $300 million. This dual private-public support reflects national priorities around quantum leadership.
Quantum Market Expands Amid Technical Shifts
The broader quantum computing market is projected to grow from $3.62 billion in 2025 to $5.09 billion in 2026. Neutral-atom systems represent a fast-growing segment due to inherent scalability advantages over superconducting or trapped-ion alternatives. Competitors including Pasqal and Quantinuum have also raised hundreds of millions as governments and enterprises race toward fault-tolerant machines.
Leadership Emphasizes Technical Execution
Founder and CEO Ben Bloom previously contributed to highly accurate atomic clocks. His team's progress from early neutral-atom skepticism to multiple technical firsts, including the toric code demonstration, underpins recent momentum and partnerships.
Deployments and Partnerships Drive Next Phase
With the Magne system commissioning underway in Denmark and additional U.S. government programs underway, Atom plans further on-premises deployments and scaling of error-corrected systems.