Key Points
- Neuralink raised $650 million to support clinical trials and scale its brain interface technology.
- The device allows patients to control digital and physical devices using brain signals. Five paralyzed patients are already using the implant in early trials.
- Neuralink has received the FDA’s “breakthrough device” designation for its speech and vision restoration technology.
- Investors in the funding round include Sequoia, ARK Invest, Thrive Capital, and Founders Fund.
Elon Musk’s brain-computer interface company Neuralink has raised $650 million in its latest funding round, the company announced on Monday. The new funds come at a critical moment, as Neuralink begins clinical trials for its brain implant device across three countries.
The company’s implant is a cutting-edge device that includes a chip capable of processing neural signals, allowing users to transmit their thoughts directly to computers or smartphones. Neuralink emphasized that the funding will help scale the technology to restore independence for people with severe medical conditions and to expand the possibilities of brain-computer interfaces.
Currently, five patients with severe paralysis are participating in clinical trials, successfully using the Neuralink system to control digital and physical devices solely through thought. The trials mark a pivotal phase in the company’s efforts to bring its futuristic vision into medical reality.
In addition to its brain implant, Neuralink has received the FDA’s “breakthrough device” designation for two of its innovations: one aimed at restoring speech and another designed to restore vision. This status helps accelerate the development and approval process of potentially life-changing technologies.
Elon Musk recently stated that he was stepping down from his role as a special adviser to U.S. President Donald Trump to focus on his companies, which include Tesla, SpaceX, xAI, Neuralink, and the social media platform X.
Meanwhile, Morgan Stanley is reportedly arranging a $5 billion debt package for Musk’s AI startup xAI. The company is reportedly targeting a $113 billion valuation through a planned $300 million share sale, underscoring investor confidence in ventures led by Musk.
Prominent investors, including ARK Invest, DFJ Growth, Sequoia Capital, Thrive Capital, Founders Fund, QIA, Valor Equity Partners, G42, Human Capital, Lightspeed, and Vy Capital backed the funding round for Neuralink.
A previous report by Semafor stated that Neuralink had already secured $600 million, with a pre-money valuation of $9 billion, underscoring the company’s strong financial support.
