Dutch nanoimprint lithography specialist Morphotonics has raised €40 million to expand production of advanced optical components for smart glasses and explore applications in next-generation data centers.
The investment round includes support from 3M Ventures, Innovation Industries, BOM, Invest-NL, the European Innovation Council Fund and the European Investment Bank. The funding will help the company accelerate manufacturing capacity and deepen its international presence.
Scaling precision optics for wearable technology
Morphotonics develops nanoimprint lithography systems that use precision-created stamps to transfer microscopic patterns onto photosensitive materials. This process can support the production of optical elements used in augmented reality glasses, vehicle privacy displays and other advanced display technologies.
A central application is the manufacture of waveguides, thin glass or polymer components that guide light to create digital imagery within a wearer's field of view. As smart glasses move toward broader consumer and enterprise adoption, manufacturers are seeking scalable ways to produce these intricate optical structures.
The company is currently building a new machine designed to produce more than 6 million waveguides annually. Shipments are expected to begin early next year. Morphotonics has also expanded its workforce from around 30 people in 2024 to 60, with plans to grow toward 70 to 75 employees.
A new opportunity in photonic data centers
Beyond wearables, Morphotonics is entering the market for co-packaged optics, a technology designed for data centers using photonic integrated circuits. These chips transmit data with light rather than conventional electrical connections, supporting faster and more energy-conscious communication between servers and networking equipment.
The company says customers have validated its technology for this field, although commercial systems have not yet been deployed. Morphotonics currently generates most of its revenue through equipment sales and has installed 10 to 15 systems worldwide. It aims to reach 50 deployments over the next two to three years, while expanding licensing and process services.
The expansion signals how precision optical manufacturing could become a key enabler for both immersive computing and more efficient digital infrastructure in the years ahead.
