# AI chip startup Etched reaches $10.3B valuation, backed by major investors

AI chip developer Etched has secured a $10.3 billion valuation after a funding round from prominent investors, countering earlier skepticism. The company focuses on specialized hardware for AI workloads, positioning itself as a challenger to established players like Nvidia. This milestone highlights growing investor confidence in niche AI infrastructure startups.

**Importance:** 4/5

## Sources

### Technology
- [TechCrunch](https://techcrunch.com/2026/07/23/ai-chip-startup-etched-defies-skeptics-hits-10-3b-valuation-from-big-name-investors/) — Thu, 23 Jul 2026 15:00:00 +0000