Nanochap, a Hangzhou-based developer of brain-computer interfaces for vision restoration, announced RMB 500 million in Series C+ funding on November 3. Gaorong Ventures led the round, with participation from investors including PICC Equity, Monolith, and C&D Emerging Industry Investment.
The financing is Nanochap’s second round this year and brings its cumulative funding to RMB 1 billion. Founded in 2014, the company develops neural chips and implant systems through two approaches: stimulating the retina and targeting the brain’s visual cortex.
According to the company, its 320-channel retinal interface has entered clinical trials, with three participants receiving implants. A separate 1,280-channel visual-cortex interface remains under development, with clinical validation planned. [VBData, in Chinese]