A new project promoted by the European Union has as purpose help startups and technology SMEs related to quantum computing to move faster to the hardware production phase. In addition, it also wants to facilitate their early entry into the sector, and take the possible steps so that they continue to operate within the borders of the EU.
The project, named Qu-Pilot, is endowed with 19 million euros, and aims to solve a growing problem in various European sectors for quantum computing: moving innovation from the laboratory to the market. The ultimate goal is to reduce the time it takes for innovative products in the quantum technology sector to be ready in the EU, and to help set up a reliable supply chain.
Qu-Pilot will remove a significant barrier for companies: piloting, which requires a considerable investment, both in money, time and infrastructure. The project will take advantage of the existing piloting infrastructure, to expand it especially among research and technology organizations in Europe.
In addition, it will facilitate product development cycles, in collaboration with the region’s hardware sector. This will result in the establishment of Europe’s first federated production facilities for quantum technologies. In this way, progress will be made in the establishment of standards in the field of quantum computing, in addition to facilitating installations for startups and SMEs.
These federated piloting streams will focus on four technology platforms: superconducting, photonics, semiconductors, and diamond technology. With them it will be possible to advance in quantum computing applications, as well as in its communication.
Currently, Qu-Pilot is made up of 21 partners from 9 countries. These include the Netherlands’ Associated Scientific Research Organization (TNO), the Belgian Inter-University Microelectronics Center (IMEC), and the Fraunhofer Society of Germany. The project went live this month and will run for approximately three and a half years.
In addition to a mainstay of quantum technologies, the program Qu-Pilot is part of the European Union’s strategic plan to promote quantum development in the region. It also seeks to convert research into commercial applications, and to ensure technological sovereignty in the quantum computing sector.
