Source: https://www.uktech.news/deep-tech/government-uk-quantum-projects-20240205
The government has announced £45m will be invested into the UK quantum computing sector across a new catalyst fund and a funding competition.
Last year, the chancellor unveiled a National Quantum Strategy, backed by £2.5bn over the next decade.
As part of the strategy, the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) has announced a £30m funding competition to encourage the development of new quantum computers.
The funding will come from the UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) Technology Missions Fund and the National Quantum Computing Centre.
Additionally, DSIT has announced the £15m Quantum Catalyst Fund – delivered by Innovate UK – that will “accelerate use of quantum in government”. The fund will invite firms to apply with projects designed to provide uses of quantum technology in the public sector.
“As we steer towards an economy benefitting from quantum, this further £45m in funding underscores our commitment to support bright UK innovators who are pushing boundaries and seizing the potential of this technology to transform our public services,” said Science Minister Andrew Griffith.
“The UK is already one global leader in quantum and to maintain that position this government will continue to invest in this transformational technology propelling the UK into a new era of technological prowess and economic growth.”
The UK Science and Technology Framework, published last year, included quantum computing as one of five critical technologies for the future of the UK.
The framework also included AI, bioengineering, semiconductors and future telecommunications.
“We are on the brink of a quantum technology revolution that is poised to transform diverse industries from the financial sector to healthcare, and UKRI is committed to ensuring the UK’s place at the forefront of this,” said Dr Kedar Pandya, executive director of cross-council programmes.
“We are providing our world-leading businesses and institutions the resources and tools needed to build a strong foundation in quantum computing with the potential to scale their activities for long-term competitive advantage.”