In Ireland, Pilot Photonics, an integrated photonics firm, has been awarded a recommended investment of up to €10.4 million from the European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator. This funding is part of the Horizon Europe 2021 to 2027 Research and Innovation Programme, which aims to support deeptech companies in scaling their innovations. The investment will enable Pilot Photonics to transition from breakthrough innovation to high-volume industrial production of its patented photonic chip technology, which generates ultra-pure wireless signals for applications in AI data centers, satellite communications, and next-generation mobile networks.
The company’s photonic chip technology utilizes laser light to produce extremely pure wireless signals, offering advantages over traditional electronic circuits, such as greater power efficiency and higher bandwidth signal processing. This technology is increasingly in demand across two key sectors: data servers, which require enhanced bandwidth to support AI applications, and the commercial space industry, which seeks to reduce the size, weight, and power consumption of its systems. Pilot Photonics has already secured validation from leading international customers in both markets, indicating strong market interest and potential for growth.
The EIC Accelerator funding will support Pilot Photonics in several critical areas, including product qualification, high-volume manufacturing, and team expansion both in Ireland and internationally. William Oppermann, the CEO of Pilot Photonics, expressed that being selected by the European Innovation Council is a significant endorsement of the company’s technology and commercial ambitions. He emphasized that this support will provide a platform for the company to scale its operations and establish a supply chain necessary for competing on a global level.
Peter Burke, the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, praised the investment as a testament to the innovation and dedication of the Pilot Photonics team. He highlighted the company’s contribution to Europe’s digital sovereignty in areas such as 6G, satellite systems, and secure communications. Kevin Burke, the national director for Horizon Europe at Enterprise Ireland, noted that the award represents international recognition of the breakthrough nature of Pilot Photonics’ technology and the team’s progress in bringing their products to market.
