Swiss Quantum Initiative
In 2022, the Federal Council launched the Swiss Quantum Initiative (SQI), a national initiative to support quantum science and technology. The SQI aims to consolidate Switzerland’s position in this key scientific field, both in terms of research and innovation.
The SQI’s goal
The SQI aims to consolidate Switzerland's outstanding position in the field of quantum technologies and boost its international competitiveness. This is achieved by means of the following:
- Targeted support for research and innovation through competitive calls for proposals
- Development of attractive educational curricula
- Knowledge and technology transfer in collaboration with industry
- International cooperation.
Organisation
This national initiative brings together three partners from the fields of education, research and innovation (ERI): the Swiss Academy of Natural Sciences (SCNAT), the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF), and Innosuisse. They work in tandem to achieve the objectives set by the Federal Council.
The SQI operates under the strategic guidance of the Swiss Quantum Commission (SQC). Composed of leading experts from ETH Zurich and EPFL, cantonal universities, universities of applied sciences, the private sector and government agencies, the SQC is responsible for setting the strategic direction of the SQI and bringing together the expertise of Swiss research institutions.
Funding
The Confederation has allocated a maximum of CHF 82.1 million for the ERI-period 2025–2028, primarily for national projects. These funds will be allocated as follows: CHF 22.9 million to SCNAT, CHF 29.6 million to the SNSF, and CHF 29.6 million to Innosuisse.