10 most important trends in the Quantum industry

The Dutch government has prioritised quantum technology, committing €615 million through 2027, including policy support and strategic alliances with international entities, enhancing the Netherlands’ global standing in quantum technology.

“Quantum computing will really be there in 10, 15, 20 years; it’s hard to sell that now, but it’s a train that’s left the station.”

Dan Howell, Director Quantum Delta Delft

 

Recent efforts have solidified the country’s leadership in the sector, ensuring ongoing innovation and economic growth.

Dutch institutions lead in scalable quantum computing, achieving 99.9% fidelity in quantum operations, a key milestone for fault-tolerant computing. Julian notes the shift from bulky lab setups to fabricated devices using semiconductor and integrated photonics infrastructure.

“For me, the most exciting trend right now is quantum-inspired solutions. These are techniques derived from quantum computing that can solve important problems today, without needing a quantum computer.”

Chris Cade, Co-founder, Fermioniq

Projects at QuTech drive advancements in quantum processors and algorithms, promising transformative impacts across finance, healthcare, and logistics. These advancements promise breakthroughs in data processing, enabling faster and more accurate solutions to complex problems.

Quantum Delta NL is a nationwide initiative that aims to create a cohesive quantum ecosystem by connecting research institutions, industry leaders, and government entities. This collaboration across the five hubs fosters innovation, attracts top talent, and drives the commercialisation of quantum technologies through a unified national strategy.

According to Julian, the Dutch program is unique as it tries to form a coherent strategy, increasing collaboration between the hubs and aligning from a national perspective rather than individual institutions.

The Netherlands leads in the development of a quantum internet for ultra-secure, high-speed communication through initiatives like the European Quantum Communication Infrastructure.

Key players, including QuTech, have demonstrated multi-node quantum networks, focusing on quantum encryption to ensure robust data security and a future-proof communication network.

The Dutch government and private sector invest in quantum R&D to maintain competitiveness, with public-private partnerships essential for attracting talent and advancing innovation across various quantum applications.

Dutch researchers are advancing quantum software and algorithms, enhancing practical applications in complex simulations and high-level computations. This improvement includes quantum-inspired solutions that leverage classical hardware for efficient simulations on powerful GPUs.

“Classical hardware, like the latest Nvidia GPUs, continues to improve rapidly. This is benefiting us because our quantum simulators can run on these faster GPUs, allowing us to add business value even now.”

Chris Cade, Co-founder, Fermioniq

Dutch companies lead quantum algorithm development for financial modelling, drug discovery and materials science across industries.

Quantum sensing advancements in the Netherlands are transforming healthcare and environmental science through precise measurements. Innovations in quantum metrology enable breakthroughs in medical diagnostics and climate monitoring. Quantum sensors developed by VSL (Dutch Metrology Institute) and TNO are capturing the attention of the manufacturing industry.

Partnerships between government, academia, and industry foster knowledge exchange and resource sharing and strengthen the quantum sector. The House of Quantum initiative unites over 100 organisations to enhance innovation and accelerate commercialisation, creating a dynamic environment essential for translating research into real-world applications.

Dutch universities invest in quantum education to develop a skilled workforce and prepare students for academia, research and industry careers.

“One of the most exciting developments is in education. Europe needs to push for more talent in quantum, and I see a lot of opportunities emerging, particularly in combining quantum with AI.”

Naomi Braam, Co-founder, Techlabs Ventures

Coordinated programs aim to produce 2,000 new quantum engineers by 2027, ensuring a steady flow of qualified professionals to meet growing industry demands.

“The Netherlands is uniquely positioned due to its cross-industry collaboration, combining quantum technology with neighbouring fields    like integrated photonics and semiconductor technology.”

Julian Rabbie, Strategy Consultant, TNO

The Netherlands collaborates with international partners in quantum research, joining initiatives to advance the field and attract foreign talent and investment. Significant partnerships with Germany, France, and the US facilitate knowledge sharing through joint research projects and strengthen the country's position as a global quantum hub.

What are the major hubs for quantum research in the Netherlands? The key hubs are Delft, Amsterdam, Leiden, Eindhoven, and Twente.

Who are the leading institutions and initiatives in the Dutch quantum industry? Notable institutions include QuTech (a collaboration between TU Delft and TNO), QuSoft (a collaboration between CWI and the University of Amsterdam), Quantum Delta NL, and various universities like TU Delft, TU/e, Centrum Wiskunde & Informatica (CWI), the University of Amsterdam, the University of Twente and Leiden University.

How is the Dutch government supporting the quantum industry? The Quantum Delta NL initiative is backed by €615 million in government funding. The Dutch government also recently granted a consortium from TU Delft and Leiden University a €35 million grant to investigate fundamental quantum limits. The Ministry for Education, Culture and Science previously awarded a Gravitation grant to Dutch university researchers for large-scale research on quantum software.

What educational programs are available for quantum technology in the Netherlands? Universities such as TU Delft, University of Amsterdam, and Leiden University offer specialised programs and courses in quantum technology.

What are the career opportunities in the Dutch quantum industry? Career opportunities include roles in research and development, engineering, software development and positions at leading companies and research institutions like TNO, QuTech, and various startups.