Spain launches 800m euro quantum strategy

The Government of Spain has recently unveiled its inaugural Quantum Technologies Strategy, backed by a substantial investment of €800 million. The primary objective of this funding initiative is to bolster the Spanish quantum ecosystem, both in terms of research advancements and market applications, while also preparing society for the transformative potential that these cutting-edge technologies hold.

Running until 2030, the strategy is supported by funding from Europe’s ERDF funds and the Recovery, Transformation, and Resilience Plan. These financial allocations have the dual purpose of not only driving innovation but also attracting additional public and private investments that could potentially elevate the total investment to an estimated €1.5 billion, following a previous investment of €300 million last year.

Under this strategy, there are specific focus areas that include enhancing the Spanish power grid through quantum technologies, as well as collaborations such as Airbus selecting Multiverse Computing for quantum-inspired gesture recognition and partnerships like IQM and Multiverse teaming up for quantum processors.

The funding is intended to stimulate investment in infrastructure and industrial applications related to quantum computing, networking, and sensors. Notably, companies like Multiverse Computing, a prominent quantum firm headquartered in Barcelona, stand to benefit significantly from this initiative, which will facilitate the scaling up of Spanish quantum enterprises through the convergence of algorithms and technologies in quantum and artificial intelligence.

Furthermore, a dedicated €10 million quantum communications hub, akin to the one established in the UK, is set to accelerate the development of practical use cases in this domain. This includes promoting research and development in quantum photonics, as well as implementing training and dissemination programs. However, there is a recognition that falling behind the US in the global quantum race is a risk that Spain must address.

Minister for Digital Transformation and Public Function, Óscar López, emphasized the significance of Spain specializing in critical sectors like quantum communications to safeguard vital environments such as financial transactions and energy distribution networks. Minister for Science, Innovation, and Universities, Diana Morant, echoed this sentiment by highlighting the strategic importance of investing in quantum research and knowledge transfer to industry, positioning Spain as a frontrunner in pioneering the disruptive innovations that will define the 21st century.