Insider Brief
- Switzerland has released a national quantum strategy outlining plans to maintain its leadership in quantum technologies by strengthening coordination between research, industry and government.
- The strategy calls for 200–300 million CHF in investment, the creation of a national quantum hub, and expanded infrastructure such as cleanrooms, test facilities and specialized centers for quantum sensing, communication and simulation.
- Experts emphasize that translating Switzerland’s strong academic research base into startups, commercial technologies and private investment will be critical for competing globally in quantum technology.
- Image: Swiss Quantum Strategy (Gerd Altmann)
PRESS RELEASE — The Swiss Quantum Strategy, which was published on Wednesday, demonstrates how Switzerland defends its leading role in quantum technology through the development and marketing of technologies on an international level. Coordinated action and strategic impulses are required for this purpose at the interface between science, economics and politics. Swiss Quantum Commission experts from the Swiss Academy of Sciences (SCNAT) penned the strategy in the context of the Swiss Quantum Initiative on behalf of the State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation.
tates and companies on a global level have high expectations of future quantum technologies and are investing heavily. Switzerland occupies a fortunate position in the development of approaches to technology, given that over 200 research groups currently exist in the field. On the other hand, only a few startup businesses currently exist. The authors of the strategy note that impulses and investments that go beyond the academic world are necessary if Switzerland also wishes to play a leading role in the development and marketing of quantum technologies.
The public and private sector are joining forces to develop a quantum agenda
The Swiss Quantum Strategy recommends active strategies which should be developed and supported by both the public and private sectors. A quantum hub should be created in Switzerland that adopts a strategy that attracts talent, people and businesses. Technical infrastructures and platforms for researchers and companies are crucial in this respect. Specialised cleanrooms and test facilities, competence centres for quantum sensors and communication or a national facility for quantum simulations are all parts of this strategy. Experts currently believe investment requirements of between 200 and 300 million CHF will be necessary.
Scientific breakthroughs should be transformed into marketable solutions
To encourage the growth of young companies and private investment in marketable technologies, experts recommend targeted funding instruments for young companies and reducing risks relating to long-term private investments through public funding and appropriate frameworks. They also recommend state-supported deep tech funds to encourage long-term technological developments, including in the quantum area. It is also important to continue the dialogue on the opportunities and risks of quantum technologies in order to ensure their social benefits.
Scientific excellence remains the basis for quantum technologies
Switzerland is actively involved in all significant areas of quantum research. In addition to basic research, work is also being conducted on technologies such as quantum simulation, quantum sensors, quantum communications and quantum computing. These areas have developed to different degrees: while there are already products in the domains of quantum cryptography and highly sensitive measurements, some unresolved challenges regarding powerful quantum computers still loom large. “The area of quantum research and technologies is still at a level where research into a variety of approaches can still lead to groundbreaking developments. Interdisciplinary basic and applied research therefore remain crucial,” the experts emphasised.
The Swiss Quantum Initiative
The Swiss Quantum Initiative (SQI) aims to further strengthen the leading position of Switzerland in quantum research and technologies. It contributes to Switzerland’s ability to compete and connect at the international level and creates a good starting position for international cooperations. The SQI is coordinated and managed by the Swiss Quantum Commission, a body of leading experts in this area. Implementation of the SQI occurs on behalf of the Swiss Confederation and in close cooperation with the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF) and Innosuisse (the Swiss Innovation Agency).
