Quantum sensing startup DeteQt has secured $750,000 in pre-seed funding from Australia’s Main Sequence Ventures and US-based deep-tech investor ATP Fund.
The investment supports the development of DeteQt’s patented ‘diamond-on-silicon’ quantum magnetometers, which have potential applications in GPS-denied navigation, critical mineral detection, and portable medical imaging.
DeteQt is a spin-out from the University of Sydney Nano Institute and has drawn interest from both domestic and international partners.
Adjunct Professor Jim Rabeau, CEO of DeteQt, will formally announce the investment at the upcoming Quantum Australia Conference, the university said in a news release.
Professor Rabeau has held leadership positions at Microsoft’s quantum computing program, Deloitte, CSIRO, and was previously the president of the Australian arm of US-based quantum company Infleqtion.
Professor Rabeau is expected to highlight the role of Australia’s quantum investment in fostering real-world applications of cutting-edge research.
He stated that DeteQt exemplifies how quantum technology can transition from academic research to practical solutions, addressing key industry challenges.
Quantum sensors offer new possibilities beyond the limitations of existing sensor technologies in mining, health, and navigation.
DeteQt’s approach integrates nitrogen-vacancy diamond technology with conventional silicon chip fabrication, making its sensors highly sensitive while also being cost-effective and scalable.
By leveraging semiconductor manufacturing processes, the company aims to enable mass production of quantum sensors for precision applications.
“Our technology is designed to address some of the world’s biggest challenges – navigation in GPS-denied environments, more effective critical mineral exploration, and next-generation medical imaging,” Professor Rabeau said.
“By integrating quantum sensors with scalable semiconductor processes, we’re delivering the sensitivity of quantum with the manufacturability and low-cost of silicon.”
Government support for the quantum sector has been increasing, with initiatives such as the National Quantum Strategy, which was released in 2023, and prior investments including $70 million in the Sydney Quantum Academy and $18.4 million in Quantum Australia.
The sector is receiving backing from both public and private entities, reflecting a broader push to translate quantum research into commercial applications that can generate jobs and contribute to Australia’s technological sovereignty.
DeteQt has already established early-stage partnerships in Australia and the US across various industries. In defence and navigation, the company has secured a $3 million contract with the Australian Defence Force to develop GPS-denied navigation systems.
In mining and critical minerals, it is collaborating with industry leaders, including Adelaide-based Fleet Space, to enhance subterranean imaging tools.
In medical imaging, DeteQt is working with US partner OneScan to explore the potential of quantum sensors in portable MRI systems.
Founded by Professor Rabeau and Professor Omid Kavehei from the University of Sydney Nano Institute and Faculty of Engineering, DeteQt brings together expertise in diamond-based quantum sensing and semiconductor design.
“With strong backing from investors, a growing ecosystem of partners, and a clear pathway to commercialisation, DeteQt is well-positioned to lead the next wave of quantum sensing innovation,” Professor Rabeau said.
