Stablecoin issuer Tether has unveiled a strategic investment to the tune of $200 million in Blackrock Neurotech, a frontrunner in Brain-Computer-Interface (BCI) innovation. This investment, facilitated through Tether’s newly established venture arm, Tether Evo, positions the company as the majority shareholder in Blackrock Neurotech.
Blackrock Neurotech, founded in 2008 by Dr. Florian Solzbacher and Marcus Gerhardt, emerged from the University of Utah as a trailblazer in the realm of neuroscience and neural engineering. Headquartered in Salt Lake City, Utah, the company is dedicated to revolutionizing the lives of individuals grappling with paralysis, neurological disorders, and sensory impairments. Leveraging cutting-edge BCI technology, Blackrock Neurotech has enabled remarkable feats, including the control of robotic limbs and communication via thought alone.
One of the company’s standout achievements occurred in 2016 when a patient, Nathan Copeland, utilized Blackrock’s BCI to interact with then-U.S. President Barack Obama, culminating in a historic fist bump. Through sensory implants, Copeland was able to experience tactile sensations, underscoring the profound impact of Blackrock Neurotech’s advancements.
Tether’s substantial investment will primarily bolster the commercialization efforts of Blackrock Neurotech’s groundbreaking medical solutions, which have already transformed the lives of over 40 individuals. Moreover, the infusion of capital will fuel ongoing research and development initiatives, ensuring Blackrock Neurotech maintains its position as a pioneering force in the BCI landscape.
Paolo Ardoino, CEO of Tether, remarked on the strategic significance of the partnership, stating, “Blackrock Neurotech embodies the convergence of technological innovation and human potential, aligning seamlessly with Tether’s commitment to transformative technologies. Together, we embark on a journey toward a future where BCI enhances the human experience.”
In response, Florian Solzbacher, Co-Founder of Blackrock Neurotech, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, emphasizing Tether’s dedication to propelling technological frontiers. Tim Sievers, Co-Chairman of Blackrock Neurotech, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the profound societal implications of their shared vision.
