The UK National Quantum Technologies Programme (UKNQTP) is a programme set up by the UK government [1] to translate academic work on quantum mechanics, and the effects of quantum superposition and quantum entanglement into new products and services. It brings UK physicists and engineers together with companies and entrepreneurs who have an interest in commercialising the technology.
The programme has contributed to the vast number of quantum technologies start-ups within the UK. Examples include Orca Computing, Universal Quantum, Oxford Ionics,[6] Delta g and Cerca Magnetics.
The vision of the UK National Quantum Technologies programme is to "create a coherent government, industry and academic quantum technology community that gives the UK a world-leading position in the emerging multi-billion-pound new quantum technology markets, and to substantially enhance the value of some of the biggest UK-based industries."[7][8]
The UKNQTP was initiated by a £270 million investment by the UK Chancellor of the exchequer, George Osborne in the Autumn Statement 2013.[9] In addition to this, the UK Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) separately announced a £30 million investment into a programme to produce demonstrator devices.
Summer 2013 - Dstl, after consultation with the academic community publish a UK Quantum Technologies Landscape document, which outlines a number of areas of research that are ready to become devices for defence and commercial use.
December 2013 - The UK Chancellor George Osborne announces a £270 million investment into quantum technologies [21]
November 2014 - The Science Minister at the time, Greg Clark announces a "national network of quantum technology hubs" [22]
March 2015 - The Quantum Technologies Strategic Advisory Board release their strategy for the UKNQTP[23]
April 2015 - Innovate UK announces the results the competition 'exploring the commercial applications of quantum technologies',[24] a £5 million funding round for companies working to develop quantum technologies.
March 2016 – UK Government announce £37 million for Quantum Doctoral Training Partnerships
November 2018 – Announcement of the National Quantum Computing Centre.
July 2019 – UK Government commits a further £94 million to the National Quantum Technologies Programme, comprising the second round of four Quantum Technology Hubs.
September 2019 – The £40 million Quantum Technologies for Fundamental Physics programme is announced
March 2023 – UK Government announce 10-year National Quantum Strategy
November 2023 – UK Government announce 5 Quantum Missions
July 2024 – UK Government announces the third round of quantum technologies hubs which helps ensure the UK benefits from quantum future