D-Wave Quantum Inc. (NYSE: QBTS), a global leader in quantum computing systems, software and services, has launched a significant European expansion with a €10 million quantum computing initiative in Italy. The company announced it is hosting a series of seminars across Italian universities this week as part of the newly formed Q-Alliance, revealed during last week's Digital Innovation Forum in Como, Italy.
The Q-Alliance represents a strategic partnership created to support the Italian government's framework for advancing digital and quantum technologies. As a founding member of this alliance, D-Wave has committed €10 million for the placement of a D-Wave Advantage2 annealing quantum computer in the region. This investment ensures accessibility for Italy's scientific community, academia, and industry sectors seeking to leverage quantum computing capabilities.
The agreement, developed in partnership with the Italian government and the Q-Alliance, includes acquisition of 50% capacity of an Advantage2 system for five years with an option to purchase the full system. Dr. Alan Baratz, CEO of D-Wave, emphasized the company's commitment to establishing Italy as a global hub of quantum innovation. Through the placement of a D-Wave system in the region combined with ongoing hands-on workshops and training programs, the initiative aims to provide Italian researchers and academic institutions with access to commercial-grade quantum technologies and expert support.
The initial workshops are being held at Universita dell'Insubria and Universita della Svizzera Italiana, designed to accelerate education and awareness of quantum computing among Italy's growing ecosystem of young researchers. The program includes scholarships, internships, and comprehensive training programs to build quantum computing expertise within the Italian academic community. For additional details about the initiative, visit https://ibn.fm/BaJ3A.
This strategic move positions Italy to become a significant player in the global quantum computing landscape, providing local researchers and industries with cutting-edge computational resources that could accelerate breakthroughs in optimization, artificial intelligence, and scientific research. The initiative represents a substantial investment in Europe's quantum computing infrastructure and demonstrates the growing importance of international partnerships in advancing quantum technology adoption.
