Quantum computing, a revolutionary technology that harnesses the fundamental principles of quantum mechanics, has the potential to transform various industries by solving complex problems exponentially faster than classical computers. As the race for global quantum supremacy intensifies, stakeholders from academia, innovation centers, and companies across the United States are actively working to cultivate a vibrant domestic quantum computing ecosystem to propel innovation and maintain a competitive edge in this rapidly evolving field. 

Although the U.S. is a leader in quantum computing, particularly when it comes to market share, it lags behind other countries in government funding, making it challenging to advance progress and innovation in the space. Nonetheless, there are still bright spots of innovation. For its part, Washington state, for example, is emerging as a key center of excellence in quantum information sciences (QIS) technologies in the U.S. However, similar to other technology hubs focused on developments in quantum computing across the country, Washington could benefit from additional funding and research support. 

Moreover, the U.S. is experiencing a “brain drain” when it comes to skilled tech talent. In 2021, 900,000 tech jobs in the U.S. went unfilled. While most highly skilled workers come from higher education or employment visas, neither of these sources produces enough talent to meet employer demand. Higher education produces just 325,000 graduates in all STEM fields. Additionally, Congress grants only 85,000 H-1B visas each year, a program that enables U.S. employers to hire skilled workers from other countries on a temporary basis. The number of applications consistently exceeds the number of visas. As a result, many individuals are opting to leave the U.S. to seek jobs in other countries with more favorable immigration policies and plentiful employment opportunities.

This article will delve into the Washington Technology Industry Association (WTIA) report, Quantum Information Sciences (QIS) in Washington state, prepared by Moonbeam for the association’s Advanced Technology Cluster. Specifically, it will explore the key players, research initiatives, and investments shaping the quantum computing landscape in the U.S.

 

Academic Institutions and Research Centers

The report highlights the crucial role played by leading academic institutions and research centers in advancing quantum computing in the U.S. Institutions such as the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Stanford University, Harvard University, and the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) are actively involved in cutting-edge research, developing quantum algorithms, and training the next generation of quantum scientists. Additionally, federal agencies like the National Science Foundation (NSF) and the Department of Energy (DOE) provide substantial funding to support quantum research, fostering collaborations and nurturing talent.

Government Initiatives and Funding

Recognizing the transformative potential of quantum computing, the U.S. government has launched several initiatives and allocated significant funding to accelerate progress in this domain. The National Quantum Initiative Act, signed into law in 2018, authorized $1.2 billion in funding over five years to advance quantum research and development. The establishment of the National Quantum Coordination Office (NQCO) further signifies the commitment to fostering collaboration among government agencies, industry stakeholders, and academia. These initiatives aim to position the U.S. as a global leader in quantum technologies, promoting economic growth and national security.

Industry Leaders and Startups

The report sheds light on the active involvement of industry leaders and startups in driving the quantum computing ecosystem. Companies like IBM, Microsoft, Google, and Intel have established dedicated quantum research divisions and are actively engaged in developing quantum hardware, software, and tools. IBM’s Q System One and Google’s Sycamore quantum processors have achieved notable milestones in demonstrating quantum supremacy. Moreover, startups such as Rigetti Computing, IonQ, and PsiQuantum are making significant strides in areas like quantum hardware, quantum algorithms, and quantum communication.

Quantum Research Consortia

Collaborative efforts within the quantum computing ecosystem are instrumental in accelerating progress and overcoming technical challenges. The report highlights the formation of research consortia that bring together academic institutions, industry players, and government agencies. Examples include the Quantum Economic Development Consortium (QED-C), which focuses on commercializing quantum technologies, and the Quantum Industry Consortium (QIC), which aims to foster collaboration across the quantum supply chain. These consortia serve as platforms for sharing knowledge, coordinating research efforts, and promoting the adoption of quantum technologies.

 

Quantum Education and Workforce Development

Educational initiatives are also on the rise, with a goal to cultivate a skilled workforce capable of harnessing the power of quantum computing. The report highlights the emergence of specialized quantum programs, such as the Quantum Engineering Program at MIT and the Quantum Science and Engineering Center at Stanford. These programs provide interdisciplinary education, combining quantum physics, computer science, and engineering. Additionally, organizations like the Quantum Computing Institute (QCI) collaborate with industry and academia to offer quantum training and certification programs, bridging the quantum skills gap.

 

Cluster Activity

An opportunity exists to connect the North American quantum ecosystem as a whole via a flagship industry conference, according to the WTIA Quantum report. Washington state, for instance, can benefit from working with and coordinating collaboration with complementary clusters. Its unique blend of capabilities across the full technology stack enable Washington to act as a national leader in quantum adoption through coordination with other clusters.

Specifically, Washington state is emerging as a leader in: Quantum Optics, with several companies manufacturing devices and strong R&D from academia; Quantum Computing, with big players with a presence in the state and again, strong R&D from academia; potential quantum applications in areas that are already strong in Washington, such as Healthcare Tech, Cryptography/Cybersecurity, and Agriculture Tech.

There are also several other clusters located throughout the U.S. and Canada:

The WTIA report underscores the progress made to date in establishing a thriving quantum computing ecosystem in the U.S. Academic institutions, government initiatives, industry leaders, startups, and collaborative consortia form the pillars of this ecosystem, driving innovation, research, and development. As the quantum computing landscape continues to evolve, the U.S. remains at the forefront of this technology, leveraging its strengths to unlock the transformative potential of quantum computing across various sectors, ranging from healthcare and agriculture to cybersecurity and cryptography. Despite funding and workforce development challenges, the focused efforts of various stakeholders have helped position the U.S. as a global leader in quantum computing and are paving the way for a future powered by quantum technologies.