Valar Atomics Builds Nuclear Reactor Prototype in 10 Months Following $19 Million Seed Round

El Segundo, California – Valar Atomics, a nuclear energy startup, successfully constructed a complete thermal prototype of its nuclear reactor, dubbed "Ward Zero," within 10 months of securing its seed funding. This rapid development was recently highlighted by CEO Isaiah Taylor, who reflected on a black-tie event held inside their factory to commemorate the milestone, even featuring a custom cocktail named "Fizzion."

The company, led by CEO Isaiah Taylor, secured a significant $19 million seed round in February 2025, with Riot Ventures leading the investment. This funding has propelled Valar Atomics' ambitious goal to revolutionize nuclear energy deployment by focusing on high-temperature gas reactors (HTGRs) and a unique "gigasite" model. The prototype's swift completion underscores the company's hardware-first approach to innovation.

Valar Atomics aims to build hundreds of small modular reactors (SMRs) on these gigasites, intending to drastically reduce the cost and time associated with traditional nuclear plant construction. Their business model emphasizes producing clean hydrocarbon fuels and hydrogen for off-grid applications, rather than solely generating electricity for the grid. This strategy positions them to serve energy-intensive sectors like data centers and heavy industry.

The company's technology utilizes high-temperature gas reactor design principles, employing TRISO fuel for enhanced safety and proliferation resistance. Valar Atomics has already begun expanding its reach, signing a contract with the Philippines Nuclear Research Institute to construct a 100-kilowatt experimental reactor. Additionally, the firm was selected for the U.S. President’s Accelerated Nuclear Program, aiming for criticality on American soil by July 4, 2026, with a test facility in Utah.

Despite rapid progress, Valar Atomics faces regulatory challenges. The company has joined a lawsuit against the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, citing overly burdensome regulations that impede innovation. CEO Isaiah Taylor, a vocal proponent of a "new atomic age," envisions a future where abundant, cheap nuclear energy enables widespread access to clean synthetic fuels, transforming global energy dynamics and fostering industrial growth.