DARPA will hold its Quantum Benchmarking Initiative (QBI) Proposers Day on September 3, 2024. The event aims to bring together quantum computing companies from around the world as part of the Quantum Benchmarking Initiative (QBI) launched in July. This initiative focuses on advancing fault-tolerant quantum computers that have practical applications in science and industry. The hybrid event offers quantum computing companies the chance to learn more about DARPA’s goals and discuss their approaches to developing large-scale quantum systems.
We’re inviting small & large U.S. & international quantum computing companies to participate in our Quantum Benchmarking Initiative (QBI) proposers day Sept 3. The in-person & virtual event includes option for sidebar discussions with QBI program manager: https://t.co/wRpqOV8gcT pic.twitter.com/NEpK2oYgkJ
— DARPA (@DARPA) August 15, 2024
Who Should Participate in QBI Proposers Day?
The QBI Proposers Day is open to U.S. and international quantum computing companies of all sizes. DARPA specifically encourages companies that are close to breakthroughs in fault-tolerant quantum computing to join. Companies that previously applied for DARPA’s US2QC program are also encouraged to participate. According to QBI Program Manager Joe Altepeter:
“We’re eager to hear from and work with an expanded pool of quantum computing firms, both small and large, in the United States and around the world.” The event will be held in a hybrid format to accommodate both in-person and virtual participation.
Objectives and Opportunities: What to Expect
The Proposers Day will focus on:
- Introducing DARPA’s goals and the objectives of the Quantum Benchmarking Initiative.
- Explaining the QBI solicitation process and important project milestones.
- Providing opportunities for companies to engage directly with DARPA representatives.
The event will also offer one-on-one sidebar meetings with Joe Altepeter to discuss specific approaches and strategies. These sessions will be available in-person on September 3 and virtually on September 4 and September 6.
DARPA’s Vision for Fault-Tolerant Quantum Computing
Fault-tolerant quantum computers are considered key to solving complex problems in various fields. DARPA’s Quantum Benchmarking Initiative targets four main areas:
- Developing utility-scale quantum computers that provide more value than they cost.
- Creating robust research and development plans to reduce key technical risks.
- Identifying and validating practical quantum algorithms and applications.
- Collaborating with the government to ensure these systems are built and operated as designed.
“Fault-tolerant quantum computers, if they can be developed, could be transformative for a variety of scientific and industrial applications,” said Altepeter. The Proposers Day is designed to bring together companies working on these technologies and help advance those that show the most promise.
Announcing our new Quantum Benchmarking Initiative, which seeks to validate the promise of #quantumcomputing – separating hype from reality – through collaboration with fed & state quantum experts & test facilities @DOEscience @IllinoisDCEO @AFResearchLab https://t.co/nw0xwRvLpn pic.twitter.com/apo3IQBnpp
— DARPA (@DARPA) July 16, 2024
How to Participate: Registration Details
Interested companies can register for the event until August 27, 2024, or until capacity is reached. Detailed information, including registration instructions, is available in the Quantum Benchmarking Initiative (QBI) Proposers Day Special Notice. A full QBI solicitation is expected to be published on SAM.gov before the event, allowing participants to prepare their proposals.
Next Steps for QBI Proposals
Following the Proposers Day, companies will have additional opportunities to engage with DARPA during the virtual sidebar sessions. The full solicitation process will guide participants in submitting proposals aimed at creating scalable fault-tolerant quantum computing systems. The initiative seeks concrete plans for quantum computers that can deliver measurable performance and utility.
Will You Be Attending DARPA’s Quantum Benchmarking Initiative?
DARPA’s QBI Proposers Day offers a unique platform for quantum computing companies to showcase their innovations and engage directly with experts. Are you planning to attend or participate in the discussions? Let us know your thoughts on the event and how you see it impacting the quantum computing landscape in the comments below.
