Action Agenda Quantum Technologies

This programme aims to establish the Netherlands as a leader in building and hosting utility-scale quantum computers, using predominantly Dutch-developed subsystems. The approach is structured in three phases: first, developing state-of-the-art quantum computers with 100–1,000 qubits; second, scaling up to 5,000–10,000 qubits with early fault-tolerant architectures; and finally, delivering a 100,000-qubit prototype for industrial-scale applications. The programme uses a procurement-driven innovation model, encouraging coopetition among consortia, and focuses on both technical scaling and supply chain control to ensure technological sovereignty. Key challenges addressed include hardware scaling, quantum error correction, and integration with classical and AI computing systems.

The anticipated impact is significant: securing a share of the multi-billion-euro global quantum computing market, enabling breakthroughs in health, engineering, finance, and security, and reducing reliance on foreign technology. The total public funding required is €800 million, with additional private and end-user contributions expected.

This programme aims to position the Netherlands as a global frontrunner in quantum connectivity by 2035. The strategy focuses on developing advanced quantum communication technologies, building a national quantum connectivity backbone, and fostering globally competitive companies. The programme is structured around three main work packages: the development and testing of state-of-the-art quantum network devices; the deployment of a national entanglement-based quantum connectivity backbone; and the unlocking of advanced use cases through pilot facilities and open-access platforms. These efforts will enable secure quantum communications, distributed quantum computing, and new applications in sectors such as telecommunications, defence, finance, and critical infrastructure. The programme leverages the Netherlands’ existing strengths in digital infrastructure and aims to create a trusted, upgradeable, and scalable quantum network.

With a total budget of €600 million, the initiative is crucial for safeguarding digital sovereignty, supporting economic growth, and ensuring the Netherlands remains at the forefront of quantum innovation in an increasingly competitive global landscape.

This programme aims to establish the Netherlands as a technological leader in quantum sensing by industrialising quantum sensors that offer clear advantages over classical alternatives. The focus is on three main application areas: metrology and failure analysis, dual-use sensing technologies, and life and health sciences. The approach involves public-private partnerships, with early stages funded mainly by public sources and later stages increasingly supported by private investment and revenue from commercialised sensors. Key activities include developing and validating new sensor technologies, integrating sensors into real-world systems, and scaling up manufacturing. The programme addresses challenges such as sensor functionalisation, system integration, and adapting sensors for harsh and biological environments.

By 2035, the goal is to create a robust industry capable of thriving on private investment, supporting sectors like next-generation computing, healthcare, and defence. This will help the Netherlands capture control points in emerging markets, secure future earnings, and contribute to societal challenges such as health and security.

The goal of this Innovation Programme is to develop key capabilities to design and build (sub)systems that enable the manufacturing, packaging, testing, and integration of quantum technologies, positioning the Netherlands at the epicentre of the global quantum supply chain. The programme is built around two pillars: the scalable manufacturing of quantum subsystems—focusing on critical components such as single-photon detectors, cryogenic I/O chains, and miniaturised quantum modules; and application-driven equipment and metrology—developing specialised tools and testing systems that go beyond conventional semiconductor equipment, tailored for quantum-grade requirements.

The programme encourages industry-led consortia, iterative calls, and demonstrators, ensuring adaptability to international developments. By strengthening Dutch control points in the quantum value chain, the initiative supports technological sovereignty, economic growth, and high-value job creation. The total public and private investment is €240 million, with the ambition to create a robust, export-oriented industrial base that can meet the demands of a rapidly expanding global quantum market and provide spillover benefits to other high-tech sectors.

The goal of this Innovation Programme is to accelerate the development and improvement of valuable application of quantum computing, through algorithms, methods, software and application development, as well as supporting software tools and software stack.. The approach includes supporting fundamental research in quantum algorithms, integrating artificial intelligence to enhance quantum solutions and vice-versa, and developing software tools and applications for both near-term and future fault-tolerant quantum computers. The programme identifies key verticals—such as chemistry, materials science, and optimisation—where quantum computing is expected to deliver early economic impact.

By bridging the gap between current noisy intermediate-scale quantum (NISQ) devices and future large-scale systems, the initiative seeks to position Dutch industry at the forefront of quantum software and application development. The programme also aims to foster entrepreneurship, build a skilled workforce, and encourage technology transfer from research to commercial use. With a total investment of €190 million, this programme is crucial to ensure that the Netherlands captures emerging market opportunities for quantum computing.