Feds announce support of quantum research at Waterloo

The Institute of Quantum Computing (IQC) at the University of Waterloo will receive a financial allotment of $15 million over three years from the Federal Government.

“Through our updated science, technology and innovation strategy, our government is making the necessary investments to push the boundaries of knowledge, create jobs and prosperity, and improve the quality of life of Canadians,” said Ed Holder, Minister of State (Science and Technology). “This funding will help the Institute for Quantum Computing to continue attracting world-leading research talent and to increasingly translate new knowledge into innovative quantum-based technologies for the benefit of Canadians.”

A multidisciplinary research institute with researchers from the Faculties of Science, Engineering and Mathematics, IQC’s goal is to be the world leader in the field of quantum information science and to develop the technologies that will fundamentally impact the ways in which we work, communicate and live.

“Quantum computing has the potential to launch transformative technologies that will create new industries and generate a wave of leading-edge jobs in Waterloo Region’s ‘Quantum Valley,’” said Peter Braid, Member of Parliament for Kitchener-Waterloo.

Advances in quantum information research are beginning to transform not only computing, but information security and sensing technologies. This rapidly emerging industry – quantum information technology – will lead to continued success for Canada with the renewed support for IQC.

“We are pleased that Minister Holder and MP Peter Braid are here today to share the news of how they are helping the Institute for Quantum Computing, and really Waterloo Region, to take advantage of the full spectrum of opportunity quantum technologies present, ” said Professor Raymond Laflamme, executive director, Institute for Quantum Computing at Waterloo. “IQC research doesn’t end in the laboratory. IQC is doing research that will make a difference in the way Canadians live their lives.”

In 2009, the Government of Canada first partnered with IQC with an investment of $50 million. That funding matched Ontario’s investment of $50 million, along with $100 million from Mike Lazaridis. With these investments, IQC has attracted international research talent, made significant discoveries and built a world-class centre for research in quantum technologies and its applications.