QAI Takes the World Stage Through International Year of Quantum Sciences and Technology Partnership
Through this partnership, QAI has access to an organization with global reach helping QAI to promote BC’s quantum computing and engineering expertise to the world.
(February 4, 2025) Surrey, B.C. – In an exciting step, BC’s quantum industry is gaining a global foothold with QAI becoming a “participating partner” to promote the United Nations’ International Year of Quantum Science and Technology (IYQ). Under this partnership, QAI will be able to promote BC’s quantum industry far beyond the Canadian scope. Recognizing 100 years since the initial development of quantum mechanics, 2025 is designated as a year of promoting public awareness on the importance of quantum computing and its applications to all aspects of life. IYQ will also serve as a global forum for sharing ideas, learning and collaboration in the world of quantum computing.
“Through this partnership, QAI has a seat at the table with other global powerhouses in the quantum industry, allowing us to promote BC’s quantum companies and researchers on the world stage,” said Louise Turner, CEO of QAI. “We are part of the global conversation about quantum, and we are thrilled to share British Columbia’s expertise with the world and gain new ideas for the provincial and national quantum industry.”
“British Columbia has so much to offer the global quantum space” said Dr. Shohini Ghose, Chief Technology Officer at QAI. “We are at the forefront of groundbreaking innovation born right here in BC. QAI is helping to bring significant investment to the BC quantum industry. I am excited to see how our resources and innovation can help drive quantum education, investment and adoption around the world.”
Improving access to quantum computers for researchers is one example of a QAI initiative that will be highlighted on the world stage through this partnership. In the last 15 months, QAI has partnered with D-Wave Systems to provide a quantum training program, giving researchers and post-secondary students in BC instruction on and access to D-Wave's quantum computer. “The world needs these kinds of partnerships,” said Turner “so far, students have submitted over 5,000 problems to D-Wave's quantum computing services. Building a quantum-ready workforce requires good partners and hands-on training; QAI’s D-Wave Quantum Computing Training program provides no-cost access to advanced systems, keeping Canadians competitive in the fast-growing quantum industry.”
Enhancing financial forecasting models is another successful initiative QAI is looking to share globally in 2025. In November 2024, QAI partnered with Canadian companies AbaQUS Data and InvestDEFY using D-Wave quantum computing technology to simplify forecasting models in the financial sector. Initial tests revealed that quantum computers can be much more effective than classical computers at reducing the time it takes to analyze complex financial datasets. “These results are very promising” explained Dr. Ghose “Not only for the finance sector, but for any sector that needs increasingly complex optimization and problem-solving.”
In another successful initiative designed to grow Canada’s quantum advantage, QAI created a strategic partnership with the Platform for Digital and Quantum Innovation of Quebec (PINQ²). Through this relationship, post-secondary students across BC can access Canada’s first IBM Quantum System One commercial quantum computer based in Quebec as well as support from experts to help them use it. “At QAI, we understand the power of collaboration and we have seen its positive impact in BC and across Canada.” Turner emphasized “As we head into the International Year of Quantum, we are very excited to see how this new global collaboration can benefit the Canadian quantum sector and help inspire collaboration on the world stage.”
QAI is proud to be a conduit of expertise and a respected voice for the quantum industry in BC and across Canada. We look forward to bringing our ideas to the table alongside international partners throughout 2025 to celebrate quantum innovation and help raise awareness on the importance of quantum computers’ potential for learning and job creation around the world.
About Quantum Algorithms Institute (QAI)
The Quantum Algorithms Institute is a collaboration between government, the academic community, and Canada’s growing sector of quantum computing companies. The Quantum Algorithms Institute works with companies and academic institutions to help unlock the benefits of real-world applications of quantum solutions to increase quantum literacy and grow the quantum talent pool in BC. As a non-profit organization with an inclusive approach across quantum technologies, the Quantum Algorithms Institute is your trusted source for stepping into the quantum future: making the adoption of quantum technologies accessible, tangible, and collaborative for everyone.
Media inquiries
For more information on the Centre for Responsible Quantum Innovation and Technology please contact: Andrew Rudyk, Media Relations, media@quantumalgorithmsinstitute.ca