DOE Partners with Fermilab and Qblox to Scale U.S. Quantum Control Technology

Insider Brief

• The DOE, Fermilab, and Qblox have partnered to manufacture and distribute the Quantum Instrumentation Control Kit (QICK) in the U.S., advancing domestic quantum capabilities and workforce development.
• QICK, an open-source platform developed by Fermilab, synchronizes quantum processors and sensors, serving as a critical control and readout tool for quantum computing, sensing, and networking.
• Qblox will manage U.S.-based manufacturing, distribution, and supply chain operations, creating a scalable public-private model for domestic quantum technology commercialization.

The U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Technology Commercialization has announced a new partnership between Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory (Fermilab) and Qblox to manufacture and distribute the Quantum Instrumentation Control Kit (QICK) domestically. The collaboration aims to accelerate U.S. capabilities in quantum computing, sensing, and networking, while supporting workforce development in high-tech quantum infrastructure.

Originally developed by Fermilab, QICK is an open-source platform designed to manage quantum readouts and controls, synchronizing quantum processors and sensors — making it a foundational tool for the quantum ecosystem.

Under the agreement, Qblox, a specialist in control and readout electronics bridging quantum and classical systems, will oversee U.S.-based manufacturing, distribution, and supply chain operations for QICK.

“This partnership demonstrates how DOE’s National Laboratories and private industry can accelerate quantum commercialization while strengthening U.S. manufacturing and workforce capabilities.”

— said DOE Under Secretary for Science Dr. Darío Gil.

 “Qblox is proud to facilitate this Made-in-the-USA platform to strengthen America’s quantum infrastructure, cultivate a highly skilled talent pool, and cement the nation’s position as a global leader in quantum technology.”

 — said Qblox Founder & CEO, Niels Bultink.

The initiative is currently under a Letter of Intent, with plans to formalize under a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) and full licensing in the coming weeks, creating a scalable model for public-private quantum collaboration.

Read the full announcement here.