Description
The Department of Energy’s Office of Science is launching the Quantum Genesis Q Competition, a first‑of‑its‑kind effort to accelerate the development of a fault‑tolerant, scientifically‑relevant quantum computer (SRQC). Up to ten domestic for‑profit entities (including small businesses) will be selected to receive milestone‑based funding totalling $215 million over roughly 30 months. Participants must deliver a full‑stack quantum solution, build a prototype within the first year, and then a first‑generation SRQC (≥100 logical qubits, capable of thousands of hard fault‑tolerant operations) by 2028‑2030. Funding is split into fixed payments ($250 k plan approval, $1.25 M prototype) and a large incentive pool (up to $100 M) plus two bonus pools ($50 M each) tied to logical‑qubit milestones. All work must be performed in the United States, though limited waivers are possible. The program includes extensive verification & validation by DOE staff and requires compliance with security and reporting requirements.
• Target: domestic commercial entities with full‑stack quantum hardware, software and integration capability.
• Funding: $215 M total; $250 k initial, $1.25 M prototype, plus share of $100 M incentive pool and up to $100 M in bonuses.
• Timeline: Application due 19 Oct 2026; selections announced ≈13 Nov 2026; prototype milestone ~1 yr; final SRQC milestone by Sep 2028 (with possible extension to 2030).
• Deliverables: detailed technical plan, prototype, first‑generation SRQC, scientific workflow demonstration, regular reports, data and IP handling.
• Mandatory U.S. performance; optional webinar 25 Sep 2026; questions due 6 Oct 2026.