Neuralink Secures $650M in Series E Funding, Expands Clinical Trials and Patient Access

Elon Musk's brain-computer interface startup, Neuralink, has announced a substantial $650 million Series E funding round, marking a significant milestone in the company's quest to revolutionize the field of neural implant technology. This latest investment brings Neuralink's total funding to over $1.2 billion and values the company at $9 billion pre-money, according to reports.

Funding Details and Investor Support

The Series E round saw participation from a roster of high-profile investors, including ARK Invest, Founders Fund, G42, Lightspeed, Sequoia Capital, DFJ Growth, Human Capital, QIA, Thrive Capital, Valor Equity Partners, and Vy Capital, among others. This follows Neuralink's previous $280 million Series D round in August 2023, demonstrating continued investor confidence in the company's vision and progress.

Clinical Trials and Patient Milestones

Neuralink has made significant strides in its clinical development program. The company reports that its brain implant has entered clinical trials in three countries, with five individuals suffering from severe paralysis now using the device to control digital and physical devices. These trials are being conducted at several prestigious institutions:

• Barrow Neurological Institute in Phoenix
• The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis at the University of Miami
• Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi
• University Health Network in Toronto

The company's N1 implant, which includes 1,024 electrodes distributed among 64 threads, is designed to allow patients to control computers and mobile devices using only their thoughts. Neuralink describes this achievement as "a profound step toward helping restore independence" for individuals with severe disabilities.

Regulatory Milestones and Future Applications

Neuralink has secured important regulatory designations from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The company received Breakthrough Device Designation for its technology aimed at restoring communication for individuals with severe speech impairment. Additionally, Neuralink announced that it had obtained breakthrough designation for vision restoration programs.

The company is also expanding its research into new applications. In November, Neuralink received approval for a new clinical study called CONVOY, which will test the feasibility of connecting its brain-computer interface chip with a robotic arm. This expansion into physical device control represents a significant step forward in the potential applications of Neuralink's technology.