Science Corp. raises $230M to commercialize PRIMA visual implant
Context and Chronology
Science Corporation announced a fresh capital infusion that will accelerate commercialization of a retinal brain–interface system known as PRIMA. The financing round netted $230M, lifting the startup’s post‑round valuation to roughly $1.25B and bringing total disclosed funding to $490M. Founder Max Hodak framed the raise as the necessary resource to move from trials into regulated markets; later references use Mr. Hodak for clarity. Management targets regulatory clearance in Europe and a product launch soon after.
Clinically, Science reports outcomes from a controlled program covering 47 patients treated in Europe and the United States, with about 80% achieving meaningful visual gains such as reading letters. The company has submitted for a CE mark and expects a decision by mid-2026, with Germany identified as the initial commercial entry due to accelerated access mechanisms. Parallel regulatory discussions in the United States remain active but unresolved, and the trial cohort will broaden to include Stargardt disease and retinitis pigmentosa.
The PRIMA technology was obtained after an asset acquisition from a European developer and then advanced in subsequent studies by Science’s team. The company is also advancing two adjacent platforms: a biohybrid neural interface that integrates engineered neurons with a surface device, and Vessel, a miniaturized organ perfusion program aimed at decentralized transport and storage. New and returning backers on the cap table include Lightspeed, Khosla Ventures, Y Combinator, Quiet Capital and IQT, each bringing capital and strategic connections for commercialization and, in IQT’s case, potential government applications.
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