D-Wave Quantum Inc. (NYSE: QBTS) is expanding its European presence through a significant quantum computing initiative in Italy, including a €10 million contract for a D-Wave Advantage2 annealing quantum computer. The announcement came during last week's Digital Innovation Forum in Como, Italy, where the company revealed its participation in the newly formed Q-Alliance, created to support the Italian government's strategic framework for digital and quantum technologies.
The agreement includes acquisition of 50% capacity of an Advantage2 system for five years with an option to purchase the full system, ensuring accessibility for Italy's scientific community, academia, and industry. As part of this initiative, D-Wave is hosting a series of seminars starting this week aimed at advancing annealing quantum computing awareness and adoption among leading universities in the region. The initial workshops are being held at the Universita dell'Insubria and the Universita della Svizzera Italiana.
Dr. Alan Baratz, CEO of D-Wave, stated that as a founding member of the Q-Alliance, the company is committed to fast-tracking efforts to establish Italy as a global hub of quantum innovation. Through the placement of a D-Wave system in the region along with ongoing hands-on workshops and training for Italy's researchers and academic community, D-Wave is providing access to its commercial-grade quantum technologies and team of experts to help usher in Italy's era of quantum-fueled progress.
The seminars are designed to accelerate education and awareness of quantum computing among Italy's growing ecosystem of young researchers through scholarships, internships, and training programs. This initiative represents a significant step in building Italy's quantum computing capabilities and positioning the country at the forefront of quantum technology development in Europe. The partnership between D-Wave, the Italian government, and the Q-Alliance creates a framework for sustained quantum technology development and education that could have lasting impacts on Italy's technological competitiveness.
For additional information about D-Wave's quantum computing systems and services, visit https://www.dwavequantum.com. The full press release detailing this initiative can be found at https://ibn.fm/BaJ3A.
