The European Commission has unveiled a plan to enhance quantum research and innovation within the EU. The Quantum Europe Research and Innovation Initiative aims to support foundational research, industrialization, and applications of quantum technologies. This initiative is set to bring together industry, research, and policy to foster economic leadership through quantum advancements.
Quantum technologies, based on the principles of quantum mechanics, hold the promise of addressing complex challenges, developing new medicines, and safeguarding critical infrastructure. They can offer enhanced precision in sensors and bolster security for sensitive data. However, the advent of quantum computers also raises concerns about the vulnerability of existing security systems.
Europe currently leads in scientific publications on quantum but falls behind in patents and seizing market opportunities. While significant investments have been made in quantum technologies, the ecosystem in Europe faces challenges due to fragmented support across member states and inadequate private capital. The disparity in global quantum funding, with Europe receiving only 5%, poses a hurdle for scaling up quantum innovations.
The tech industry in Europe has welcomed the Quantum Europe Research and Innovation Initiative, emphasizing the importance of prompt execution. Stakeholders highlight the need for a cohesive European quantum ecosystem to drive innovation and maintain global competitiveness in the quantum-powered AI era.
The initiative will focus on aligning EU and national efforts to establish a shared research and innovation agenda. It will encompass support for foundational research, technological development, quantum infrastructure investment, and the development of public and industrial applications. A new governance framework will be introduced to implement the Quantum Europe Research and Innovation Initiative.
To address technological challenges, the European Commission plans to launch “quantum grand challenges” involving various stakeholders. Additionally, efforts will be made to enable the deployment of quantum technologies through the development of quantum chips and the establishment of pilot lines.
The Commission aims to leverage quantum technologies for both civil and defense applications. Plans include the development of a quantum roadmap in collaboration with the European Space Agency and initiatives to accelerate the adoption of civil quantum innovations for security and defense purposes.
Skills development is also a key component of the strategy, with programs planned to enhance talent mobility and support researchers-in-residence with quantum technology start-ups. The EU is open to collaborating with other countries, particularly digital partners like Japan and Canada, to advance quantum research and innovation on a global scale.
Overall, the EU’s Quantum Strategy underscores the significance of quantum technologies in driving economic growth, innovation, and security. By fostering a robust quantum ecosystem and promoting collaboration, Europe aims to strengthen its position as a leader in the quantum computing revolution.
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