19 March 2024
UCD silicon-powered quantum computing spin-out Equal1 has opened a new centre of excellence in Sherbrooke, Canada.
The centre, which is located close to the Institut Quantique at the University of Sherbrooke, will open access to state-of-the-art quantum measurement and fabrication facilities through the Quantum Technology Development Laboratory.
Equal1 aims to foster innovation and collaboration with the opening of the centre in the Quebec city's Distriq Quantum Innovation Zone.
The company said the combination of academic and industry collaboration, coupled with access to a pool of highly qualified graduating students, would make the Sherbrooke centre key to its next phase, and help to commercialise its quantum system-on-chip (QSoC) technology.
“During our visit to Sherbrooke in 2022, our team was deeply impressed by the calibre of the individuals we met and the vision for the Quantum Innovation Zone,” said Jason Lynch, CEO of Equal1.
“Having seen these plans materialise, we are delighted to join this dynamic Sherbrooke ecosystem. In fact, our collaboration with the Institut Quantique and other quantum companies has already made a positive impact.
"I am confident our new centre in Sherbrooke will be a key driver for Equal1’s success in the coming years.
"This investment marks a significant milestone for Equal1 and for fostering collaboration between academia and industry," said Tánaiste Micheál Martin.
"The presence of Equal1, a company with strong Irish research and innovation roots, will undoubtedly contribute to the advancement of quantum technology and propel Sherbrooke to the forefront in this rapidly evolving field."
Headquartered at NexusUCD in Dublin, Equal1 is supported by funding from Atlantic Bridge, Matterwave Ventures, Enterprise Ireland, European Innovation Council and 808 Ventures. The company also has offices in the US and Romania.
"Equal1’s groundbreaking technology, combined with the unparalleled expertise and resources within the Quantum Innovation Zone, heralds a new era of technological convergence and innovation," said Martin Enault, managing director of Distriq, Quantum Innovation Zone.
"As we embark on this journey together, we are further setting a global standard for quantum computing excellence and fostering a community that will shape the future of the industry."
Source: Business Plus