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Rapidus is a Japanese semiconductor manufacturing company aiming to revitalize Japan's chip industry. Founded in 2022, it's a consortium of major Japanese corporations like Toyota, Sony, and NTT. Their goal is to establish domestic production of advanced 2-nanometer chips by 2027, reducing reliance on overseas manufacturers like TSMC and Samsung. Rapidus represents a significant strategic initiative to regain technological sovereignty and secure Japan's position in the global semiconductor market. They're partnering with IBM and Imec to accelerate development.
Rapidus has raised $5.9B across 1 funding round.
The name 'Rapidus' is derived from the English word 'rapid,' reflecting the company's goal of quickly establishing advanced semiconductor manufacturing capabilities in Japan.
Key investors include major Japanese corporations such as Toyota, Sony, NTT, NEC, SoftBank, Denso, and Kioxia, along with significant financial support from the Japanese government.
While Rapidus aims to reduce reliance on TSMC, there may be opportunities for collaboration in the future. Currently, Rapidus is focused on developing its own independent manufacturing capabilities.
Rapidus has raised $5.9B across 1 funding round. Most recently, it raised $5.9B Grant in April 2026.
| Date | Round | Lead Investors | Other Investors | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apr 7, 2026 | $5.9B Grant | — | — | Completed |
Rapidus is a company with a bold mission: to bring advanced semiconductor manufacturing back to Japan.
Rapidus focuses on developing and manufacturing next-generation 2-nanometer logic chips. These chips are crucial for advanced technologies like AI, quantum computing, and autonomous vehicles. They aim to establish a complete domestic supply chain, from design to manufacturing, reducing Japan's dependence on foreign chipmakers.
Founded in November 2022, Rapidus has secured approximately 70 billion yen (around $470 million USD) in funding from the Japanese government and participating companies. They aim to begin pilot production in 2025 and mass production by 2027. The project requires an estimated investment of trillions of yen over the next decade.
Rapidus was formed in response to growing concerns about the concentration of semiconductor manufacturing in Taiwan and South Korea. The Japanese government, along with major corporations, recognized the strategic importance of domestic chip production for economic security and technological advancement. This led to the creation of a national consortium to revive Japan's semiconductor industry.
Rapidus is crucial for Japan's economic and technological future. By establishing domestic production of advanced chips, Japan can reduce its vulnerability to geopolitical risks and secure its position in key industries. Success would also stimulate innovation and create high-skilled jobs within Japan.
Rapidus is actively collaborating with international partners like IBM and Imec to acquire the necessary technology and expertise. They are building a pilot production line in Japan and recruiting talent from around the world. The company faces significant challenges, including intense competition and the need for massive investment, but the Japanese government is committed to supporting its success.
Translation: Rapidus is Japan's national project to produce 2nm chips by 2027, aiming for semiconductor independence.
The name 'Rapidus' is derived from the English word 'rapid,' reflecting the company's goal of quickly establishing advanced semiconductor manufacturing capabilities in Japan.
Key investors include major Japanese corporations such as Toyota, Sony, NTT, NEC, SoftBank, Denso, and Kioxia, along with significant financial support from the Japanese government.
While Rapidus aims to reduce reliance on TSMC, there may be opportunities for collaboration in the future. Currently, Rapidus is focused on developing its own independent manufacturing capabilities.