Neuralink raises US$ 650 million as clinical trials commence

USA – Neuralink, the brain-tech company founded by Elon Musk, has raised US$ 650 million to boost the development of its brain-computer interface.

This major funding round supports the start of clinical trials for its implant, which allows people with severe paralysis to use digital and physical devices using only their thoughts.

So far, five individuals are using Neuralink’s technology to interact with devices mentally, according to the company. The goal is to restore independence for people who have lost mobility or speech.

Neuralink also shared that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently gave its speech-restoration device a “breakthrough” designation, speeding up its path through development and approval. This follows a similar designation received last year for its device aimed at restoring vision.

The FDA’s Breakthrough Devices Program helps fast-track innovations that could make a big impact on patients with serious health needs.

“This funding helps us bring our technology to more people, restoring independence and exploring new possibilities in brain interface technology,” Neuralink said in a statement.

The funding round drew big names in tech investing, including Sequoia Capital, ARK Invest, DFJ Growth, Thrive Capital, Founders Fund, QIA, Human Capital, G42, Valor Equity Partners, Vy Capital, and Lightspeed. A recent report valued the company at US$ 9 billion before the new funds came in.

Meanwhile, Elon Musk is shifting his attention back to his businesses. He recently stepped down from a special advisory role to U.S. President Donald Trump to focus on Tesla, SpaceX, Neuralink, his AI company xAI, and social platform X.

On a related note, media reports revealed that Morgan Stanley is seeking US$ 5 billion in debt for xAI, aiming to give the artificial intelligence company a US$ 113 billion valuation through a US$ 300 million share sale.