May 30, 2024 -- UBC Blusson QMI has been awarded $3.2 million to ramp up partnerships with tech companies through its Advanced Nanofabrication Facility (ANF), quantum device measurement laboratory, and computational facilities, in a project with a total value of $8.2 million. The funding was announced today as part of the Government of Canada’s $11 million investment in quantum technology through the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada (PacifiCan).

The investments are the first B.C.-based projects funded under PacifiCan’s Regional Quantum Initiative. B.C.is an early pioneer in the global quantum ecosystem and is poised for further growth. The funding will increase UBC Blusson QMI’s capacity to provide commercialization and training services to ANF users from across the industry and government—enabling partners to engage in rapid product prototyping, accelerate the path to market and increase the likelihood of successful commercialization.

“Quantum technology has the capacity to deliver the innovations of the future with enormous potential for commercialization. B.C. is well-positioned to increase its lead in this exciting field,” said Minister of Emergency Preparedness and Minister responsible for PacifiCan the Hon. Harjit S. Sajjan. “The PacifiCan-funded projects announced today will help B.C.-based organizations access the support they need to propel themselves forward, creating jobs and prosperity here in British Columbia.”

“UBC Blusson QMI’s Advanced Nanofabrication Facility provides researchers and emerging quantum industry leaders with the research and technology development infrastructure to create groundbreaking solutions in areas like public health and clean energy,” said UBC Vice-President of Research and Innovation Dr. Gail Murphy.

“This investment by the Government of Canada plays a pivotal role in enabling the facility to emerge as a leading device manufacturing hub, supporting a range of projects and enabling the commercialization of innovative quantum technologies.”

As part of the Government of Canada’s National Quantum Strategy (NQS), PacifiCan is delivering the Regional Quantum Initiative in British Columbia. The Regional Quantum Initiative will boost Canada’s global position by helping companies and organizations create jobs and commercialize quantum technology in Canada and around the world.

“The investment also benefits Canada and the West Coast in that it enables ANF to train the next generation of quantum professionals on state-of-the-art equipment, addressing talent shortages and ensuring companies continue to play a pioneering role in this crucial sector,” said Lead Investigator Dr. Joseph Salfi, who is also an Assistant Professor in UBC’s Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering.