Broadband laser startup Superlight finds strategic backing

Enschede-based Superlight Photonics has secured an investment from Hamamatsu Ventures, the investment arm of the Japanese optical-components firm. As part of the deal, EU business development manager David Castrillo of the VC outfit will join Superlight’s advisory board as a liaison. Castrillo has thirty years of experience in the optics industry, which will be leveraged to further the Dutch startup’s ambitions.

Superlight has developed a broadband-laser chip that can replace the bulky and power-hungry technology currently used in advanced imaging and metrology equipment. With the new investment, the company will focus on expanding its team, scaling its production capacity and driving innovation across its product portfolio. It plans to expand into new geographic markets and establish partnerships with global distributors, OEMs and key industry players.

“Our partnership with Hamamatsu Ventures marks a pivotal moment in our growth journey,” says Cees Links, CEO of Superlight. “Their support validates the enormous potential of our technologies and strengthens our ability to scale quickly, innovate and meet the needs of global customers seeking innovative photonic solutions. We’re excited to leverage their industry knowledge and network to bring our breakthrough products to new markets.”

“As a strategic investor, we provide business expertise in areas where we have deep experience and we seek to create synergies that might lead to collaborative R&D and joint developments,” states Katsuhiro Kobayashi, CEO of Hamamatsu Ventures. “It’s our ambition to build a long-term, supportive partnership with our portfolio companies. We recognize Superlight Photonics’ groundbreaking technology as a game-changer with vast potential to transform a wide range of industries. They align perfectly with our investment focus on technologies shaping the future.”