- £121M invested across quantum research, job creation, and anti-fraud tech
- Quantum tools already being used to detect financial fraud at HSBC
- Major funding to support career growth, commercial use, and national missions
To mark World Quantum Day, the UK has launched a £121 million funding package to propel quantum technologies from labs into real-world impact.
One standout application is in financial fraud prevention. Banks like HSBC are already working with the National Quantum Computing Centre. They want to develop quantum-powered tools to detect money laundering patterns.
Quantum Leap: UK’s £121M Plan to Transform Crime Fighting and Future-Proof Jobs
Quantum technologies are rapidly moving from theoretical to practical. The UK’s latest investment marks a significant step in that direction. £46.1 million will be used to commercialise quantum solutions in computing, navigation, and secure communications through Innovate UK. This funding stream aims to position quantum tech as a driver of business innovation.
The £21 million allocated to the National Quantum Computing Centre (NQCC) supports its testbed programme, designed to accelerate practical deployments. With backing from the Quantum Software Lab, the NQCC is helping develop new applications that go beyond theoretical research. They are moving into everyday use — from logistics to AI training.
Workforce development is also a strong focus. The £15.1 million awarded through Quantum Technology Career Acceleration Fellowships is designed to nurture talent. This talent can translate complex quantum concepts into real-world applications such as drug discovery and disease diagnostics. Additional support for early-career researchers and apprenticeships ensures that quantum becomes a broad-based career field.
The UK’s National Quantum Technologies Programme continues to lay the groundwork for a future where quantum innovation enhances both public services and private sector solutions. With the second-largest community of quantum businesses globally, the UK is strategically betting on quantum. They want it to drive their next wave of digital transformation.
This investment signals the UK’s intent not just to compete in the global quantum race, but to lead. They aim to align cutting-edge science with real-world solutions for society’s most pressing challenges.
“Quantum — manipulating the universe at its smallest scale — has the potential to save millions for our economy, create thousands of jobs and improve businesses across the country.” – Peter Kyle, UK Secretary of State for Science and Technology
