European commission unveils strategy to position Europe as quantum technology leader by 2030

The European Commission has launched a new Quantum Strategy aimed at establishing Europe as a global leader in quantum technologies by 2030. The initiative seeks to build a robust and sovereign quantum ecosystem that supports startup growth and transforms scientific discoveries into practical applications, ensuring Europe remains at the forefront of quantum research and development.

Quantum technologies are expected to play a transformative role in addressing complex global challenges, from developing new pharmaceuticals to enhancing the security of critical infrastructure. These technologies are also anticipated to boost the EU’s industrial competitiveness and technological sovereignty, with significant dual-use potential for defence and security applications. By 2040, the global quantum sector is projected to be worth over €155 billion and to generate thousands of highly skilled jobs across the EU.

The Commission’s strategy focuses on several key areas, including research and innovation, the development of quantum infrastructures, strengthening the quantum ecosystem, advancing space and dual-use quantum technologies, and cultivating quantum-related skills.

Among the planned actions are the launch of the Quantum Europe Research and Innovation Initiative, which will involve collaboration between the EU and Member States to support foundational research and the development of practical applications in both public and industrial sectors. The strategy also includes plans to establish a quantum design facility and six pilot production lines for quantum chips, supported by up to €50 million in public funding, with the aim of transforming scientific prototypes into scalable products. Additionally, the Commission intends to initiate a pilot project for a European Quantum Internet and to expand the network of Quantum Competence Clusters across the EU. The European Quantum Skills Academy is scheduled to open in 2026, and work will begin on developing a Quantum Technology Roadmap in collaboration with the European Space Agency, as well as contributing to the European Armament Technological Roadmap.

The overarching goal of the strategy is to increase Europe’s share of global private investment in quantum technologies, which currently stands at approximately 5%. This is expected to support the growth of European startups and scaleups and encourage greater adoption of European quantum solutions across various industries.

The Commission will collaborate closely with Member States and key stakeholders in the European quantum community, including academic institutions, startups, industrial partners, and innovation networks, to implement the strategy. A High-Level Advisory Board comprising prominent European scientists and technology experts, including Nobel Prize laureates, will provide independent guidance on the execution of the Quantum Europe Strategy.

Looking ahead, the Commission plans to propose a Quantum Act in 2026. This legislation is intended to further strengthen the quantum ecosystem and support the industrialisation of quantum technologies by encouraging investments from Member States, companies, investors, and researchers in pilot production facilities and larger-scale initiatives across the EU.