American Ciena acquires 100% of PhotonPath

PhotonPath, an Italian startup and spin-off of Politecnico di Milano, has been acquired entirely by American Ciena for a reported amount of 8,300,000 EUR. This acquisition marks a new phase of development for PhotonPath, which has raised funds amounting to 8,300,000 EUR over six years from various Italian investors.

Ciena, a publicly traded company based in Maryland, described the acquisition as a strategic move to enhance its capabilities in integrated photonics. The company stated that PhotonPath's expertise in integrated photonic circuits (PIC) and advanced optical materials, including silicon oxynitride technology, complements its global leadership in photonic integration and strengthens its long-term optical innovation roadmap.

PhotonPath will retain its current staff and headquarters in Milan, with plans to expand through new hires. The acquisition is seen as a significant step for the company, which has progressed from a university spin-off to an active player in the photonics market, achieving important technological and market milestones.

The investors involved in this exit include 360 Capital Partners, Join Capital, Deep Ocean Capital, Levante Capital, Brembo, and CDP Venture Capital. They have supported PhotonPath’s growth by aiding in the development of proprietary technology and expanding its product portfolio.

The total value of the acquisition was not disclosed by either the investors or Ciena, but it highlights the potential of PhotonPath to bridge advanced photonic research into commercial applications. The exit is considered a significant achievement for the investors who supported the project and for the founders and team of PhotonPath.

In statements regarding the acquisition, partners from various investment firms emphasized the importance of deep tech investments and the transformative potential of the technology developed by PhotonPath. They noted that the company exemplifies how scientific research can lead to the establishment of competitive enterprises in global technology markets. They expressed pride in having supported PhotonPath throughout its journey and congratulated the team on this substantial milestone.

Reported by StartupBusiness.