Open Call: Quantum Technology Access Programme (UK)

QTAP aims to demonstrate the potential of quantum technology, raise awareness, educate end users, and foster industry partnerships to drive the future adoption and commercialization of quantum computing.

QTAP is part of a wider Innovate UK Industry Strategy Challenge Fund (ISCF) funded project called Quantum Data Centre of the Future.

Quantum computing is set to revolutionize the technologies as they know them and bring immense economic and societal benefits in the next decade, impacting a wide range of industries. They can provide a transformative impact on cost saving and empowering businesses to create and design products that exceed expectations.

The programme offers industries the opportunity to bridge the gap between quantum computing’s complex concepts and practical industry applications.

Successful applicants will get the opportunity to gain competitive advantage through the programme, unlocking the future benefits and applications of quantum computing for their industry. The programme will allow them to upskill their workforce, build valuable partnerships and drive innovation.

 Objectives

• The Programme objectives include:
  • Connect industry end users to quantum computing hardware and software as appropriate for their use case.
  • Providing training and education on quantum computing.
  • Deliver a final Showcase demonstrating the use cases participants have developed solutions for during the programme.

Benefits 

• The programme provides participants with the opportunity to explore groundbreaking quantum technologies and get access to support from Digital Catapult technologists and industry partners ORCA Computing and River lane.
  • Develop use cases relevant to your business needs.
  • Participate in a free, structured programme with support from experts to enhance your quantum algorithm development.
  • Receive education, training and masterclasses in quantum computing to explore its applications.
  • Gain access to cutting-edge quantum hardware and software.
  • Connect with a network of industry partners and join an esteemed alumni network.

What they’re looking for?

• The Programme aims to attract Participants who are looking to develop algorithms that can be run on a quantum computer or simulation, but who may lack knowledge about Quantum technology and its market.
• Participants will need to display a genuine interest in realizing the business benefits of Quantum computing in their own business, and have already started to explore the area.
• They are open minded about the industry sector that businesses may come from, but Applicants should be able to show in their Application that their industry is likely to benefit from quantum computing in the future.

Eligibility Criteria 

• Applicants must be a UK based registered company, or prove they are a company that has an establishment in the UK, and undertake all activity in the UK.
• QTAP supports end users who are looking to develop algorithms that can be run on a quantum computer or simulation, but lack knowledge about quantum technology and its market.
• The programme is looking for companies from various sectors, including but not limited to:
  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Automotive
  • Construction
  • Energy
  • Material science
  • Media and entertainment
  • Pharmaceutical
  • Telecoms
  • Transportation
• The participants could be from the C-suite, distinguished engineers and scientists, data experts, internal algorithm experts in R&D, methods developers looking to explore how quantum computing can be applied to their industry.
• The programme welcomes everyone regardless of their background, knowledge or resources to approach quantum computing. However, they require a decent level of technical aptitude in participants to be able to run Quantum Simulations during the programme.

Selection Criteria 

• Here are 3 criteria upon which applicants will be assessed:
  • Problem and Solution
    • Problem and use case identification – can identify relevant use. cases or belongs to an industry sector with relevant use cases
    • End user of use case.
    • QTAP cohort 1 participation (weighted in favor of new participants).
    • Novel or interesting use case based on well identified problem.
  • Technical and Business Capability
    • Basic knowledge of programming e.g. Python.
    • Basic maths understanding e.g. complex numbers.
    • Technical aptitude.
    • Change management plan.
  • Ability to Execute
    • Able to commit 8-10 hours a week.
    • Explanation for managing pressures of full-time job or higher education.
• Digital Catapult will assign scores to each selection criteria and shortlist top 12 applicants. Additional Interview stage may be required if the scores of some applications are equal and/or if anything is in doubt.

For more information, visit Digital Catapults.