Insider Brief
- Germany has launched INQUBATOR, a four-year Fraunhofer-led programme to help industry adopt quantum computing and strengthen national competitiveness.
- The project gives companies — especially SMEs — low-cost access to quantum computers, training, and support to develop real-world use cases.
- Initial use cases span medicine, cybersecurity, insurance, and automotive, with an open call planned to onboard at least eight more industry projects.
Germany has launched INQUBATOR, a new Fraunhofer-led initiative designed to help industry prepare for practical quantum computing and strengthen the country’s long-term technological competitiveness. The four-year project is coordinated by the Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Solid State Physics IAF and is supported by the Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space (BMFTR). Participating institutes include Fraunhofer IAF, IAO, ITWM, and IPA, combining expertise in quantum hardware and application-focused software.
INQUBATOR specifically targets companies that are not yet active in the quantum ecosystem, with a strong focus on lowering adoption barriers for SMEs. The goal is to bring businesses into joint R&D projects so they can start exploring real quantum applications early rather than waiting for the technology to mature.
A central part of the programme is low-cost, easy access to quantum computers from multiple vendors. Companies can test algorithms, experiment with workflows, and design quantum-enabled processes without investing in their own hardware. Fraunhofer provides training, workshops, and hands-on involvement in quantum programming and operations, building internal skills and understanding on the industry side, where needed. All partners gain access to Fraunhofer’s HPC and quantum infrastructure at no additional cost.
The project begins with four initial use cases in medicine, cybersecurity, insurance, and automotive, developed with early industry partners. These will act as templates to demonstrate practical value and to attract broader participation. An open call will be issued in the first year to onboard at least eight more use cases from other sectors. Each selected project will include a commercialisation and exploitation plan, ensuring the research links back to real business needs.
Fraunhofer says INQUBATOR will not only accelerate quantum adoption but also expand Germany’s IP base and strengthen knowledge transfer between science and industry — key elements for maintaining competitiveness as quantum technologies advance.
The project is funded by the Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space (BMFTR) under grant number 13N17420.
Source — fraunhofer
