Digital Catapult and NQCC Launch New Phase of Quantum Technology Access Programme
Summarize this article with:
Digital Catapult and the National Quantum Computing Centre (NQCC) are expanding their collaboration with a new phase of the Quantum Technology Access Programme (QTAP), designed to accelerate the adoption of quantum computing across UK industry. The initiative will provide up to twelve organizations spanning sectors like energy, healthcare, and finance with training, hands-on experimentation, and expert support to explore potential quantum applications. Participants will focus on two key areas: combinatorial optimization for logistical challenges and quantum machine learning for advanced data analysis. “Our partnership with the NQCC represents an exciting milestone as we continue to prepare UK industry for the next wave of technological transformation,” said Paul Ceely, Director of Technology Strategy, Digital Catapult, emphasizing the program’s aim to equip businesses with the skills to harness quantum computing’s potential and experiment on NQCC systems.
Quantum Technology Access Programme (QTAP) Launches with NQCC Building on Digital Catapult’s prior work with over 20 companies, this latest phase of QTAP, sponsored by the NQCC’s SparQ program, aims to move businesses beyond theoretical interest and into practical experimentation with quantum technologies. The initiative recognizes a critical juncture in the development of quantum computing, seeking to equip industry with the skills and understanding necessary to capitalize on emerging opportunities. The program will support up to twelve organizations spanning sectors vital to the UK economy, including energy, healthcare, transport, finance, and aerospace; participants will be guided through immersive learning experiences and hands-on work with NQCC’s quantum computing systems. QTAP will concentrate on two specific application areas designed to yield high impact: combinatorial optimization, addressing complex challenges in logistics and resource management, and quantum machine learning, enabling advanced data analysis and pattern recognition. This collaboration leverages Digital Catapult’s expertise in accelerating deep tech adoption with the NQCC’s expanding national quantum capabilities and testbeds. Simon Plant, Deputy Director for Innovation, NQCC, emphasized the commitment to broadening access, stating, “Through the SparQ programme we are committed to opening up access to quantum computing technologies and helping industry understand their potential impact.” Applications are now open for organizations seeking to explore quantum solutions to pressing industry challenges, signaling a concerted effort to build a robust and connected quantum ecosystem within the UK. SparQ Program Focuses on Skills & Ecosystem Building The United Kingdom is actively building its capacity in quantum computing, moving beyond theoretical research toward practical applications for industry. Over 20 companies have already gained initial experience with the technology through existing programs, and QTAP offers a structured approach for businesses to move from initial curiosity to hands-on experimentation, fostering a deeper understanding of how quantum computing could reshape their sectors. This collaboration strategically combines Digital Catapult’s established expertise in translating deep tech into industrial solutions with the NQCC’s expanding national quantum computing infrastructure and testing capabilities. Our partnership with the NQCC represents an exciting milestone as we continue to prepare UK industry for the next wave of technological transformation. Quantum computing is approaching a moment of real opportunity, and this programme is designed to ensure businesses have the clarity, confidence and practical skills to explore where quantum can create meaningful impact, and to experiment on NQCC’s quantum computing systems. Paul Ceely, Director of Technology Strategy, Digital Catapult Combinatorial Optimization & Quantum Machine Learning Use Cases Up to twelve organizations spanning sectors from energy to aerospace will gain access to quantum computing resources and expertise, specifically targeting two high-impact areas: combinatorial optimization and quantum machine learning. This initiative isn’t simply about introducing a novel technology; it’s about addressing tangible challenges in logistics, resource allocation, and scheduling through the power of quantum algorithms. The program’s structure provides immersive learning and guidance, allowing industry professionals to experiment with quantum computing for real-world business impact and develop a crucial skillset for the emerging field. Through the SparQ programme we are committed to opening up access to quantum computing technologies and helping industry understand their potential impact. By working with Digital Catapult, we can bring these capabilities to an even broader audience and support UK organisations in developing the pathway to real world quantum applications. Simon Plant, Deputy Director for Innovation, NQCC Source: https://www.digicatapult.org.uk/about/press-releases/post/digital-catapult-and-the-nqcc-collaborate-to-strengthen-the-uks-quantum-capabilities/?utm_source=linkedin&utm_medium=owned_social&utm_campaign=qtap_3 Tags: