As global electricity demand continues to surge, driven by rising household consumption and the rapid expansion of artificial intelligence infrastructure, investors are increasingly turning their attention to nuclear fusion and fission startups. This shift in focus is not merely a trend; it represents a significant pivot towards innovative energy solutions that promise to meet the power needs of an ever-growing population and economy. The latest evidence of this burgeoning interest is the remarkable $450 million Series A funding round secured by Inertia Enterprises, a fusion power startup based in Livermore, California.
Founded just two years ago, Inertia Enterprises has quickly positioned itself as a key player in the nuclear fusion landscape. The company’s ambitious plans include the development of a fusion pilot at the prestigious Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL). This initiative aims to construct the world’s most powerful laser and establish a production line for mass manufacturing fuel targets, which are critical components in the pursuit of practical fusion energy. The funding round was led by Bessemer Venture Partners, with participation from notable investors such as Google Ventures and Threshold, underscoring the confidence venture capitalists have in the potential of next-generation energy technologies.
The significance of Inertia’s funding cannot be overstated. It reflects a broader trend in the investment landscape where nuclear energy—both fusion and fission—is gaining traction as a viable solution to the world’s energy challenges. According to Crunchbase data, funding and deal volume in the nuclear sector reached unprecedented levels last year, and 2026 is already off to a promising start. This influx of capital is indicative of a growing recognition that nuclear energy could play a pivotal role in achieving a sustainable and clean energy future.
Inertia’s funding is part of a larger narrative involving several high-profile deals in the fusion space. One of the most notable recent developments is the announcement that Trump Media & Technology Group plans to merge with TAE Technologies, a leading fusion company, in a transaction valued at over $6 billion. TAE Technologies, founded in 1998, is the oldest operating venture-backed fusion energy company in the Crunchbase dataset and has raised approximately $1.5 billion in prior funding. This merger highlights the increasing convergence of technology and energy sectors, as companies seek to leverage synergies between innovative media platforms and groundbreaking energy solutions.
Other fusion companies are also making headlines with their fundraising efforts. Commonwealth Fusion Systems leads the pack with an impressive $2.86 billion in equity funding. Helion Energy follows closely with $1 billion, while Pacific Fusion and General Fusion have attracted $900 million and $357 million, respectively. These figures illustrate a robust appetite among investors for companies that are pushing the boundaries of what is possible in fusion energy.
On the fission side, the investment landscape is equally vibrant. Last year alone, over $2.5 billion was funneled into nuclear fission projects, with X-energy securing the largest deal—a $700 million Series D funding round in late November. X-energy is known for its advanced nuclear reactor and fuel technology, which positions it well to capitalize on the growing demand for clean energy solutions. Additionally, Standard Nuclear, a Tennessee-based company specializing in advanced nuclear fuel for new reactors, recently raised $140 million, further demonstrating the momentum building in the nuclear sector.
Public markets are also showing a keen interest in nuclear energy. Oklo, a company developing compact nuclear reactors, went public in 2024 through a merger with a special purpose acquisition company (SPAC) launched by Sam Altman. Although Oklo’s stock has seen fluctuations since its peak late last year, it still boasts a market capitalization of around $10 billion. Other SPAC-backed ventures, such as One Nuclear Energy and Hadron Energy, are also entering the fray, focusing on developing energy parks with small modular reactors and light-water micro-modular reactors, respectively. Meanwhile, Terrestrial Energy, which specializes in small modular nuclear plants, completed a SPAC merger in October, further diversifying the landscape of public nuclear investments.
The increasing interest in nuclear energy can be attributed to several factors. First and foremost is the urgent need for clean energy solutions to combat climate change. As countries around the world commit to reducing carbon emissions and transitioning to renewable energy sources, nuclear power presents a low-carbon alternative that can provide reliable baseload power. Unlike solar and wind energy, which are intermittent by nature, nuclear power can deliver a consistent supply of electricity, making it an attractive option for meeting the demands of modern economies.
Moreover, advancements in nuclear technology have made it safer and more efficient than ever before. Innovations in reactor design, such as small modular reactors (SMRs), promise to enhance safety and reduce costs, making nuclear energy more accessible to a wider range of markets. These developments are crucial as they address some of the historical concerns surrounding nuclear power, including safety risks and waste management.
The integration of artificial intelligence and advanced computing technologies into the nuclear sector is another driving force behind the current wave of investment. AI can optimize reactor operations, improve safety protocols, and enhance predictive maintenance, thereby increasing the overall efficiency of nuclear power plants. As AI continues to evolve, its applications in the energy sector will likely expand, further solidifying the role of nuclear energy in the clean energy transition.
Despite the positive momentum, challenges remain. Public perception of nuclear energy is still mixed, with lingering fears stemming from past accidents and concerns about radioactive waste. Addressing these issues will require concerted efforts from industry stakeholders, policymakers, and advocacy groups to educate the public about the safety and benefits of modern nuclear technologies.
Additionally, regulatory hurdles can pose significant barriers to the deployment of new nuclear projects. Navigating the complex landscape of nuclear regulations requires substantial time and resources, which can deter potential investors. Streamlining the regulatory process while maintaining rigorous safety standards will be essential to unlocking the full potential of nuclear energy.
As we look ahead, the outlook for nuclear energy appears promising. With over $270 million already raised in 2026 and a growing number of startups entering the market, the momentum is building for both fusion and fission technologies. The convergence of technological innovation, increased investment, and a pressing need for clean energy solutions positions nuclear energy as a cornerstone of the global energy transition.
In conclusion, the recent funding success of Inertia Enterprises is emblematic of a larger trend in the energy sector, where nuclear fusion and fission are gaining renewed interest from investors and the public alike. As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change and energy demand, the potential of nuclear energy to provide safe, reliable, and low-carbon power is becoming increasingly clear. With continued investment and innovation, the future of nuclear energy looks brighter than ever, paving the way for a sustainable energy landscape that meets the needs of generations to come.