(Quantopticon CEO and Cofounder Mirella Koleva at the 2022 SPIE Startup Challenge)
Duality startup Quantopticon took second place at the 2022 SPIE Startup Challenge, an annual industry-focused competition during which ten competitors pitched their photonics-enabled technologies.
The challenge took place at SPIE Photonics West and showcased new businesses, products, and technologies that address critical needs with photonics. Judges from across the industry vetted the applicants for their business models, financial cases, and competitive advantages.
Quantopticon, which is designing simulation software for quantum photonic hardware manufacturers, received the second-place, $5,000 prize.
“I’m delighted and humbled to be selected as one of the winners. It’s wonderful to have this opportunity, to receive so much recognition and support from the judges. It really means a lot to me, to us,” said Quantopticon CEO and Cofounder Mirella Koleva in a press release.
“What I love about the Startup Challenge is that it brings the most promising technologies and connects them with investors,” said Ian Tracey, founder of Anchored In, and one of the challenge’s judges. “It allows us to take photonics technology to market and change the world for the better. I love the energy and the focus of these competitors, and there was such a wonderful variety of different technologies that they touched upon. It was really fantastic seeing them as they came on stage, to spot their energy and enthusiasm.”