Neuralink Secures $650 Million in New Funding as Brain Implant Enters Human Trials
Neuralink, the brain-computer interface startup founded by Elon Musk, has raised $650 million in a new funding round to support its clinical trials and accelerate development of its neural implant technology.
In a statement on Monday, Neuralink said the investment will allow the company to expand access to its device, enhance clinical capabilities, and advance innovation in the brain-machine interface (BMI) space.
“This funding helps us bring our technology to more people, restoring independence for those with unmet medical needs and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with brain interfaces,” the company said.
Neuralink Brain Implant Trials Underway in Three Countries
Neuralink’s flagship device is an implantable chip designed to translate neural signals into digital commands. The technology enables users-especially those with severe paralysis—to control digital and physical devices, such as smartphones and computers, using only their thoughts.
The chip is currently being tested in clinical trials across three countries, with five patients already using the device successfully.
In a major regulatory milestone, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently granted “Breakthrough Device” designation to Neuralink’s speech restoration system, accelerating its review and development. Neuralink previously received this designation for its vision restoration technology as well.
Who Invested in Neuralink?
Neuralink’s $650 million round attracted participation from some of the world’s most influential investors, including:
- ARK Invest
- DFJ Growth
- Founders Fund
- G42
- Human Capital
- Lightspeed Venture Partners
- Qatar Investment Authority (QIA)
- Sequoia Capital
- Thrive Capital
- Valor Equity Partners
- Vy Capital
According to Semafor, Neuralink had previously raised $600 million at a valuation of $9 billion before the new round, bringing its total funding to over $1.25 billion.
Elon Musk Refocuses on Neuralink and AI Amid Broader Tech Push
This announcement comes amid increased attention on Elon Musk’s wide-ranging tech empire. Last week, Musk revealed he was stepping down as special adviser to former U.S. President Donald Trump, citing the need to focus more on his companies, including:
- Tesla
- SpaceX
- Neuralink
- xAI
- Social platform X (formerly Twitter)
In related developments, Morgan Stanley is reportedly arranging a $5 billion debt package for Musk’s AI startup xAI, which is also planning a $300 million share sale at a valuation of $113 billion.
What You Should Know About Neuralink
Founded in 2017, Neuralink’s mission is to implant electrodes into the human brain to help restore mobility and communication in individuals with severe neurological conditions.
Key milestones:
- January 2024: First successful human brain implant completed
- April 2025: Global volunteer recruitment for ongoing brain implant study
- June 2025: Device implanted in at least three human patients
- June 2025: $650 million funding secured for further development and expansion
Neuralink is part of a growing field of companies developing experimental brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) aimed at revolutionising treatments for neurological disorders and restoring lost functions.
Neuralink Moves Closer to Mainstream Neurotech Adoption
With clinical trials now underway and a massive funding boost, Neuralink is positioning itself at the forefront of the neurotechnology revolution. The latest funding round could bring Neuralink’s brain implant technology one step closer to real-world adoption, potentially transforming the lives of millions with paralysis, speech loss, or visual impairment.
