Delft-based Quantum Delta NL, the Netherlands’ national ecosystem for quantum innovation, has received a significant boost with the recent approval from the National Growth Fund advisory committee for its updated programs and performance goals. This endorsement comes on the heels of a remarkable fundraising effort, in which Quantum Delta NL raised €273 million from the National Growth Fund (NGF) as part of the third phase of the QDNL programme.
Philippe Bouyer, Chair of Quantum Delta NL, expressed his enthusiasm about the funding, stating, “With this strong support, we are accelerating our ambitious funding strategy to strengthen the innovative industry, expand global partnerships, and position the Dutch ecosystem at the forefront of the quantum revolution. I am proud of our team and partners—together, we will push quantum technology forward to shape the future.”
The initiative led by Quantum Delta NL focuses on advancing research, innovation, ecosystem development, and talent cultivation, emphasizing a shift in its approach to achieve overarching goals. Notably, the plans for constructing a new facility have been reassessed, with the organization now prioritizing the enhancement of existing cleanroom facilities and shared infrastructure. The forthcoming investments specifically target cleanrooms at NanolabNL and key quantum hubs spread across Delft, Leiden, Twente, Amsterdam, and Eindhoven, ultimately enriching the quantum research capabilities in the Netherlands.
Furthermore, Quantum Delta NL's international efforts have been restructured under a single global strategy, highlighting an ambitious funding plan, stronger industry partnerships, and a focus on talent development. In a move to streamline its initiatives, the previous calls for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and Field Labs have been consolidated into a more efficient funding strategy that seeks to foster better engagement and support from the industry.
The foundation of Quantum Delta NL was laid in 2020, with the goal of connecting the Netherlands’ essential knowledge institutions dedicated to quantum technology and implementing the Dutch National Agenda for Quantum Technology. The organization aims to propel the Dutch quantum ecosystem to dominance in Europe. In the words of Quantum Delta NL, “Our ecosystem is built around three catalyst programmes – quantum computing and simulation, national quantum network, and quantum sensing applications – and tied together with four action lines – research and innovation, quantum ecosystem, human capital, and societal impact.”
With its well-established networks, Quantum Delta NL claims that the Netherlands possesses powerful resources and expert knowledge in the field of quantum technology. This knowledge and innovation environment is backed by five specialized yet interconnected innovation hubs located in Delft, Amsterdam, Leiden, Eindhoven, and Twente.
The recent approvals and funding infusions mark a pivotal moment for Quantum Delta NL as it seeks to enhance its contributions to the global quantum landscape. The new focus on existing infrastructures and international partnerships may well position the Netherlands as a leader in the burgeoning quantum sector, thus attracting additional talent and investment. The integrated strategy could serve as a model for effective cooperation between public and private sectors in navigating the complexities of quantum technology development.
As Quantum Delta NL moves forward, its endeavors to connect research, innovation, talent, and societal impact could redefine the potential of quantum technology in everyday applications, paving the way for breakthroughs that could reshape industries and improve lives.
In summary, these strategic advancements are not just about funding and resources—they are a comprehensive push towards creating a thriving ecosystem capable of meeting the challenges posed by the future of quantum technology. The initiative exemplifies the collaborative strength of the Netherlands’ approach to fostering innovation within the quantum domain.
