US government could take equity stake in quantum computing firms
AI Summary
The US government is considering taking equity stakes in quantum computing companies in exchange for federal funding.
The US government, through the Commerce Department, is exploring a new funding model for the quantum computing sector. Reports indicate that the government is in discussions with several companies to provide federal funding in exchange for equity stakes in those businesses.
Companies such as IonQ, Rigetti Computing, and D-Wave have reportedly been involved in these discussions, with potential funding awards starting at $10 million. Other firms, including Quantum Computing Inc. and Atom Computing, are also said to be considering similar arrangements.
This move reflects the government's desire to secure a strategic interest in the development of quantum technologies. By becoming a shareholder, the government aims to ensure that these critical technologies remain aligned with national interests while providing necessary capital for growth.
Related News
Department of War Announces $350 Million in Quantum Computing Initiatives
The U.S. Department of War has launched $350 million in new initiatives to integrate quantum computing into national security applications.
DOE ARPA-E Launches $37 Million QC3 Program Across Ten Quantum Chemistry Performers
The U.S. Department of Energy's ARPA-E has launched the $37 million QC3 program to accelerate quantum computing applications in chemistry.
US Dep’t of Commerce awards nine quantum computing companies $2bn in exchange for non-controlling equity stakes
The U.S. Department of Commerce is awarding $2 billion to nine quantum companies through CHIPS R&D investments in exchange for equity stakes.
IBM, IonQ, Diraq, and Atom Computing advance to DARPA’s quantum hardware testing stage
DARPA has selected four vendors to participate in a $300 million quantum hardware testing phase as part of its Quantum Benchmarking Initiative.