UNIIQ invests in FrostByte for the next generation of quantum computers
Quantum computing is widely regarded as one of the most promising technologies for applications ranging from drug discovery and logistics optimization to cybersecurity. But before quantum computers can operate at large scale, a fundamental infrastructure challenge must first be solved: how do you control millions of qubits without overwhelming systems with cabling, heat generation and external electronics?
The Delft-based startup FrostByte is developing cryo-electronics that address exactly this challenge. The company develops technology that brings control infrastructure closer to the quantum processor itself, laying the foundation for a new generation of scalable quantum systems.
With an investment of €350,000, UNIIQ and Delft Enterprises support the further development of FrostByte. The investment is part of a €1.3 million funding round with participation from InnovationQuarter Capital, Graduate Ventures, Paeonia Group and an angel investor.
Control electronics inside the cryogenic environment
Quantum processors operate at temperatures close to absolute zero. In current systems, a large part of the control electronics remains outside the cryogenic environment, meaning that every additional qubit leads to more connections, complexity and heat generation.
FrostByte moves part of that control electronics into the dilution refrigerator itself, using specialized cryo-CMOS technology designed to operate at extremely low temperatures. In doing so, the company is developing a new generation of cryogenic control electronics that make quantum systems more compact, energy-efficient and scalable.
The technology builds on more than ten years of research within TU Delft and QuTech, the Dutch research institute for quantum technology. FrostByte combines deep expertise in cryogenic electronics with hands-on experience in actually building quantum systems.
From fundamental research to manufacturable hardware
As quantum computing evolves from laboratory research into commercial applications, the global demand for specialized infrastructure and integrated control electronics that can be manufactured at scale continues to grow.
FrostByte is led by founders James Kroll (CEO) and Luc Enthoven (CTO), and is scientifically supported by Fabio Sebastiano and Masoud Babaie. Both advisors are internationally recognized pioneers in cryo-CMOS technology and bring decades of research experience that is now being translated into commercial applications.
James Kroll, CEO and co-founder of FrostByte: “With this investment, we can further develop our technology towards manufacturable cryo-electronics for the global quantum industry.”
With the investment, FrostByte will further expand its team, scale production of cryogenic switches and develop integrated cryo-CMOS chips for the next generation of quantum systems.
Mike Theunissen, Investment Manager at UNIIQ: “The team combines deep scientific expertise with a clear route towards concrete products and applications. That strongly aligns with UNIIQ’s mission: helping promising technologies from Zuid-Holland grow from research into commercial impact.”
About FrostByte
FrostByte is a Delft-based quantum startup developing cryo-electronics for scalable quantum systems. The company focuses on cryogenic integrated circuits (ICs) and specialized control electronics for quantum computing.
