Insider Brief
- The UK government has launched a £9.5 million funding competition to accelerate quantum computing and networking technologies, with grants ranging from £300,000 to £3 million.
- Innovate UK invites proposals from UK-registered businesses to address key technological barriers in quantum systems, focusing on hardware development and commercialization.
- Applications close at 11:00 a.m. on December 11, 2024, with an emphasis on inclusivity and support for diverse applicants.
The UK government is offering up to £9.5 million in funding to advance quantum computing (QC) and quantum networks (QN) projects, with the aim of addressing technological challenges and fostering commercial adoption, according to a recent post on the organization’s website.
Innovate UK, part of UK Research and Innovation, is leading the initiative as part of the UK National Quantum Strategy. The competition, which opened on November 4, 2024, closes at 11:00 a.m. on December 11, 2024.
Targeting Key Challenges
The funding is part of a broader effort to support the UK’s five Quantum Missions, which seek to establish the country as a leader in quantum technology. The initiative focuses on hardware development for QC, expanding QN capabilities, and projects that combine both areas, such as networking quantum computers for enhanced information processing. Innovate UK aims to tackle key technological barriers that limit the scalability and usability of quantum systems, while accelerating their commercialization.
Applicants are required to present innovative solutions that address these challenges. Projects that bridge QC and QN, creating hybrid systems, are particularly encouraged, as they could yield significant advancements in quantum technology.
Funding and Eligibility
Quantum computing projects are eligible for funding between £1 million and £3 million, while quantum networking projects can receive between £300,000 and £1 million. Hybrid projects that address both areas may receive up to £3 million.
Eligible applicants must be UK-registered businesses. They must propose projects that directly address technological limitations in quantum computing or networking, demonstrating both innovation and commercial potential. QC projects must focus on hardware development.
While Innovate UK has allocated substantial resources, the funding is competitive, and not all high-scoring proposals are guaranteed to receive grants. This underscores the importance of clear, well-structured applications that align with the goals of the national strategy.
Strategic Importance
This funding initiative represents a critical investment in the UK’s quantum technology ecosystem. By addressing key technological bottlenecks and promoting the commercialization of quantum systems, the competition aims to strengthen the UK’s position in a fast-evolving field.
Innovate UK is committed to inclusivity and accessibility, encouraging participation from businesses and individuals from diverse backgrounds. The organization provides assistance to applicants with disabilities or long-term conditions, ensuring they can participate in the competition. Applicants requiring adjustments are advised to contact Innovate UK at least 15 working days before the deadline to arrange support.
Businesses can start new applications or continue existing ones through Innovate UK’s online portal. Applicants are encouraged to contact Innovate UK for guidance early in the process, given the competitive nature of the funding. Support is available via email and phone during specified hours.
You can start an application here.
