Maryland heralds future of quantum technology with $1 billion P3 initiative

The state of Maryland, in collaboration with the University of Maryland (UMD), is launching a groundbreaking public-private partnership (P3) venture to position the state as a global pioneer in quantum information science and technology. 

Over the next five years, the P3 will invest more than $1 billion to support innovative quantum computing projects. Maryland Gov. Wes Moore signed an executive order identifying the quantum computing industry as a state priority, supported by a $27.5 million allocation in the Fiscal Year 2026 budget. 

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The partnership will work toward making state-of-the-art quantum computing and networking technologies more widely and readily available. The initiative, if successful, will ensure that academia, industries, governments and researchers will have greater access to these resources to solve complex problems and transform every sector. 

With the initiative approved, the P3 will move forward with its initial plans. These include: 

• Expanding access to the National Quantum Laboratory, ensuring students, researchers and entrepreneurs have better access to quantum computers and scientists. 
• Develop more facilities to host a Quantum Startup Foundry, an accelerator designed to offer resources and support for innovators to bring quantum solutions to market. 
• Recruit leading quantum scientists and engineers to expand the UMD quantum faculty. 
• Hire test and evaluation experts to assess projects and build a facility for UMD’s Applied Research Lab for Intelligence and Security. 
• Implement education, outreach and training initiatives with quantum-based curriculum. 

UMD will work alongside a quantum computing company operating on the university’s campus to spearhead the initiative. The company anticipates creating a 100,000-square-foot headquarters in UMD’s Discovery District, featuring a data center, laboratories and office space. The project will move forward depending on the approval of the governor’s budget. 

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