Quantum Research and Development Initiative

The Government of Canada launched its National Quantum Strategy in January 2023 to support basic and applied quantum research, to develop, retain and attract quantum expertise and talent in Canada to build the quantum sector, and to support Canadian developers and early adopters of new quantum sensing technologies.

The Quantum Research and Development Initiative (QRDI) is a 5-year program coordinated and administered by the National Research Council of Canada (NRC) to grow federal quantum research and development. QRDI will bring together different government research —offering expertise and infrastructure—to work on quantum research and development in support of the 3 missions of the National Quantum Strategy.

QRDI projects

Quantum applications, networks and devices

This project proposes to increase device performance and system functionality with the goal of bringing a broader range of quantum applications and advantages within reach

Quantum ready predictive analytics

This project proposes to investigate the quantum readiness of artificial intelligence, to advance the government's capabilities in geospatial mapping, forecasting and risk assessment

Quantum remote sensing

This project proposes to grow the Government's capabilities and train new talent in this area, with R&D that focuses on the remote sensing applications for climate and natural resource monitoring

Quantum magnetic sensing

This project aims to study and field test quantum magnetic gradiometer use

Partners / Participating Government of Canada departments and agencies