Insider Brief
- Denmark announced a dedicated investment of one billion kroner — about $93.6 million US — in quantum research and innovation.
- The primary objective of the National Strategy for Quantum Technology is to foster Danish quantum research, ensuring its continued global leadership.
- Critical Quote: “With this strategy and billion-dollar investment, we are creating a favorable environment for the development and application of quantum technology in Denmark, thus enhancing Denmark’s visibility and commitment in the quantum field.” — Christina Egelund
PRESS RELEASE — Denmark is set to embark on its first sub-strategy for quantum technology, signaling the country’s recognition of its potential impact on crucial sectors such as healthcare, green transition, and cyber security.
With a dedicated investment of one billion kroner — about $93.6 million US — in research and innovation, the government aims to propel Danish quantum research forward and establish a robust framework for the development and utilization of quantum technology.
The primary objective of the National Strategy for Quantum Technology is to foster Danish quantum research, ensuring its continued global leadership and facilitating the translation of research findings into practical quantum solutions for global challenges.
The applications of quantum technology span a wide range of societal domains, including the protection of sensitive data and critical infrastructure. Recent events, such as the conflict in Ukraine and the escalating frequency of cyber attacks, have underscored the urgent need for innovative solutions that can safeguard against evolving cyber threats.
Traditionally, the security of confidential information relies on encryption keys to encode and decode data and messages. However, if these keys are compromised or stolen, unauthorized individuals can gain access to sensitive information. Quantum physics offers a unique opportunity to address this challenge by enabling the exchange of encryption keys while ensuring their integrity and resistance to compromise.
Minister of Education and Research, Christina Egelund, says: “We have great ambitions for the development and utilization of quantum technology in Denmark. Danish quantum research is already at the forefront of the international elite and enjoys significant recognition. However, if we are to keep pace with the advancements and participate in the growing global competition for talent, investments, and knowledge, we need to make an extra effort, especially considering the security challenges posed by quantum technology. With this strategy and billion-dollar investment, we are creating a favorable environment for the development and application of quantum technology in Denmark, thus enhancing Denmark’s visibility and commitment in the quantum field.”
New program for strategic research and innovation in the quantum field A key initiative in the sub-strategy is a strategic program for research and innovation in the quantum field. The program aims to ensure a multi-year focus on quantum research and innovation, contributing to scientific breakthroughs for the development of quantum technology in Denmark. It involves both investing in fundamental research and paving the way for early-stage application of quantum technology and the synergy between research and innovation. This will effectively enable us to translate our strong research position into innovation and practical implementation in society.
Three key focus areas:
- Long-term and strategic investments in research and innovation
- International research and innovation collaboration for the benefit of Denmark
- Improved access to digital research infrastructure
Facts
The Finance Act for 2023 has allocated DKK 212 million for research and innovation in the field of quantum technology. The government’s ambition is to maintain this high level of funding for the next four years. This means a minimum prioritization of at least one billion kroner from 2023 to 2027.
Among the initiatives is the establishment of a new strategic program for quantum research and innovation. This program will support new research projects, knowledge-based innovation, and focus on promoting interdisciplinary research and innovation, talent development, and strong Danish participation in international research and innovation collaborations.
A National Forum for Quantum Technology will be established to facilitate broad collaboration among key stakeholders in the quantum field, including discussions on the strategic milestones outlined in the strategy.
This publication represents the first sub-strategy of a National Strategy for Quantum Technology. The second part will be developed later through continued inter-ministerial cooperation between the Ministry of Business, Industry and Financial Affairs, the Ministry of Education and Research, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Defence, and the Ministry of Digitalization and Equality.
For more market insights, check out our latest quantum computing news here.
