D-Wave Quantum Inc. (NYSE: QBTS), the only dual-platform quantum computing company providing both annealing and gate-model systems, software and services, announced it has been selected to receive a $1,566,250 grant from the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) through the agency’s National Quantum Virtual Laboratory (NQVL) program. The funding will support D-Wave’s role as a key industry partner in ERASE (Erasure Qubits and Dynamic Circuits for Quantum Advantage) – a project focused on developing foundational technologies for fault-tolerant quantum computing and strengthening U.S. leadership in quantum innovation.
Led by Yale University, the ERASE project brings together researchers from leading academic institutions and industry organizations to advance dual-rail gate-model quantum computing hardware, software, error correction, and applications. D-Wave, through its New-Haven, Connecticut-based subsidiary Quantum Circuits, LLC, will give ERASE researchers access to its superconducting dual-rail gate-model quantum computing resources. The award moves ERASE into the second phase of the NQVL program and underscores the NSF’s continued support for the project’s approach to scalable, fault-tolerant quantum computing.
“NSF’s continued support for the ERASE project highlights the national importance of accelerating progress toward scalable, fault-tolerant quantum computing,” said Dr. Alan Baratz, CEO of D-Wave. “We believe that D-Wave’s dual-rail technology can play a meaningful role in that effort, while building the technical foundation and skilled workforce needed to sustain U.S. leadership in quantum computing.” To view the full press release, visit https://ibn.fm/5um9O.
This grant is significant because it supports the development of fault-tolerant quantum computing, which is critical for realizing the full potential of quantum technology. Fault-tolerant systems can correct errors that naturally occur in quantum computations, enabling more reliable and powerful quantum computers. The ERASE project’s focus on dual-rail qubits and dynamic circuits aims to overcome key technical hurdles, potentially accelerating the timeline for practical quantum advantage. For the United States, maintaining leadership in quantum computing is a strategic priority, as the technology promises breakthroughs in materials science, cryptography, and complex system optimization.
D-Wave’s involvement in the ERASE project aligns with its mission to help customers realize the value of quantum computing today. The company offers both annealing and gate-model quantum systems via its Leap quantum cloud service, which boasts 99.9% availability and uptime. More than 100 organizations across commercial, government and research sectors trust D-Wave to address complex computational challenges. The NSF grant not only provides financial support but also validates D-Wave’s dual-rail technology approach, potentially attracting further investment and partnerships.
The implications of this announcement extend beyond D-Wave. The ERASE project’s success could lead to more robust quantum computers, benefiting industries such as pharmaceuticals, finance, and logistics. Additionally, the project aims to train a skilled workforce, which is essential for sustaining U.S. competitiveness in quantum technology. As the NSF continues to invest in quantum research through programs like the NQVL, the ecosystem of quantum startups, researchers, and end-users will likely expand, driving innovation and economic growth.
