D-Wave Quantum Inc. Expands European Presence with €10M Quantum Computing Initiative in Italy

D-Wave Quantum Inc. (NYSE: QBTS), a global leader in quantum computing systems, software and services, announced it is hosting a series of seminars in Italy starting this week, aimed at advancing annealing quantum computing awareness and adoption among leading universities in the region as part of the Q-Alliance. Revealed at last week's Digital Innovation Forum in Como, Italy, the Q-Alliance has been created to support the Italian government's strategic framework for digital and quantum technologies. In support of the Q-Alliance, D-Wave announced a €10M contract for a D-Wave Advantage2 annealing quantum computer in the region, ensuring accessibility for Italy's scientific community, academia, and industry.

In partnership with the Italian government and the Q-Alliance, the agreement includes acquisition of 50% capacity of an Advantage2 system for five years with the option to purchase the full system. Dr. Alan Baratz, CEO of D-Wave, stated that as a founding member of the Q-Alliance, D-Wave 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 as well as ongoing hands-on workshops and training for Italy's researchers and academic community, the company is providing access to D-Wave's powerful, commercial-grade quantum technologies and expert teams to help usher in Italy's era of quantum-fueled progress.

The initial workshops are being held at the Università dell'Insubria and the Università della Svizzera Italiana, with the seminars 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 expansion of D-Wave's European presence and demonstrates the company's commitment to advancing quantum computing adoption globally. The partnership with the Italian government through the Q-Alliance framework ensures that Italy's scientific and academic communities will have direct access to cutting-edge quantum computing resources that can drive innovation across multiple sectors including optimization, artificial intelligence, and research applications.

D-Wave's expansion into Italy through this €10 million initiative positions the country to become a significant player in the global quantum computing landscape. The placement of the Advantage2 system in the region provides Italian researchers and industries with access to commercial-grade quantum computing capabilities that can solve complex computational problems. This strategic move aligns with broader European efforts to establish leadership in quantum technologies and ensures that Italy's academic and research institutions can compete at the forefront of quantum innovation. The educational component through seminars and training programs further strengthens Italy's quantum computing ecosystem by developing local expertise and building a pipeline of quantum-ready professionals.