Dutch company Nearfield Instruments, a specialist in 3D metrology and inspection solutions for the semiconductor industry, has completed a $380 million Series D funding round, bringing its valuation to $1.6 billion.
The round is considered one of the largest deeptech funding deals in the Netherlands, reflecting growing global demand for advanced chip manufacturing technologies linked to artificial intelligence and high-performance computing.
Global Investors Join the Round
The funding round saw participation from several leading global investors, including Fidelity Management & Research Company, Temasek, Walden Catalyst Ventures, M&G Investments, and Invest-NL.
Qatar Investment Authority also joined the round as a new investor, marking a step that reflects its growing focus on investments related to AI infrastructure and the semiconductor industry.
Existing investors, including TNO Ventures and ING, also participated in the round. Strong investor demand led the round to exceed its target size, highlighting market confidence in Nearfield Instruments’ technology and its role in the advanced semiconductor manufacturing ecosystem.
Advanced Inspection Technologies for Semiconductor Manufacturing
Nearfield Instruments develops high-precision 3D metrology and inspection technologies used in semiconductor production lines to ensure manufacturing quality, improve production efficiency, and reduce defect rates.
These technologies are becoming increasingly important as chip architectures become more complex, particularly with advanced technologies such as gate-all-around, high-NA EUV, and complex 3D structures.
Supporting Rising Demand for AI Chips
The funding comes amid accelerating global demand for semiconductor technologies connected to artificial intelligence applications.
As the need grows for more powerful and energy-efficient processors, manufacturing precision and process control have become essential for developing new generations of high-performance chips capable of supporting advanced AI workloads.
Global Expansion Plans After the Funding
Nearfield Instruments plans to use the new funding to expand its production capacity, establish new application centers around the world, and strengthen technical support services for customers.
The company also aims to accelerate its research and development plans in collaboration with leading global semiconductor manufacturers, supporting its ability to meet industry needs as chip production moves toward more advanced and precise manufacturing processes.
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