Public-Private Partnership Drives Quantum Push
A public-private partnership is working to drive the adoption of quantum technologies and position Connecticut as a hub for research, technology development, and jobs.
The University of Connecticut and Yale University are leading the QuantumCT initiative, designed to establish the state as the nation’s leader in developing quantum technologies for use in real-world applications.
The QuantumCT partnership is nurturing an innovation ecosystem, training a new workforce, and identifying ways R&D can inspire communities and help companies across all sectors.
The initiative is leveraging a $1 million U.S. National Science Foundation grant to develop a statewide strategic plan and position Connecticut to fully leverage quantum technology.
The proposal could result in a $160 million award from the federal government to implement the ideas into a QuantumCT Regional Innovation Engine.
“This is not science fiction, it’s happening now,” Dan O’Keefe, the commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development, told a May 6 conference in New Haven.
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The technology uses quantum physics to tackle problems and challenges that are beyond the scope of traditional computing.
“Success with QuantumCT would mean a new industry in the state—an industry that would bring new businesses to Connecticut and affect so many of us at so many levels,” Michael DiDonato, UConn’s project manager for the initiative, told UConn Today.
“It will create opportunities for trades workers such as electricians and plumbers, it will create new jobs like cryogenic techs or quantum networking admins, it will strengthen our economy and give us all something to be extremely proud of.”
Speakers at the May 6 conference discussed quantum computing’s potential impact on Connecticut industries and the overall state economy.
Panelists said it has the potential to bolster many industries in which Connecticut already excels, including research and development, bioscience, health care and insurance.
Yale University vice provost for research Michael Crair said quantum mechanics and computing can create alternatives for GPS capabilities, measure the efficacy of pharmaceutical drugs, and predict financial or insurance industry outcomes.
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