Paris, France, December 05, 2024 -- Pasqal, a global leader in neutral atoms quantum computing, has announced a call for ideas for its “Blaise Pasqal Quantum Challenge” Hackathon. Pasqal invites students, startups, developers, researchers, and industry partners from around the world to develop quantum AI solutions that address the most pressing sustainability challenges. In April 2025, winners will be recognized during an award ceremony, with the first-place winner receiving €15,000.

A continuation to last year’s first edition, the 2024-2025 Hackathon is part of a multi-year initiative to explore and showcase inspiring use cases that contribute to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. By contributing innovative ideas, candidates will not only compete but also become part of a global endeavor to shape a sustainable future through quantum AI applications.

“Quantum computing can process complex calculations at speeds far beyond traditional methods. When paired with the data processing and predictive capabilities of AI, we can uncover insights and solutions at a transformative scale,” said Georges-Olivier Reymond, CEO and Co-founder of Pasqal. “Our goal with this Hackathon is to bring the power of quantum AI to life. By equipping the world’s brightest minds with our technology and mentors, we’re confident that some of the most pressing sustainability challenges can be solved.”

Over the next eight weeks, more than 500 Hackathon participants will have access to a dedicated platform where they can form teams and submit projects and ideas. Pasqal will organize virtual masterclasses throughout the period to engage participants, inspire them on the topic, and maximize ideas. Mentors from Pasqal’s technical expert team – and from Pasqal partners including Capgemini, Sumitomo, Genci, and TCS – will provide guidance to support initiatives in all domains, including:

• Transforming Energy Systems: Quantum-enhanced AI algorithms can develop smarter, more resilient energy systems that better integrate renewable sources, optimize grid operations, and reduce overall energy waste. This shift not only decreases greenhouse gas emissions but also fosters energy security and sustainability at a global scale.
• Maximizing Resource Efficiency: Quantum AI enables a deeper understanding of complex ecosystems, allowing more precise management of resources such as water, soil, and raw materials.
• Accelerating Sustainable Innovation in Healthcare: In fields like drug discovery, quantum computing can drastically reduce the time required to identify effective compounds, making the development of treatments more efficient and environmentally friendly. This capability supports sustainable healthcare practices by reducing the resources and emissions associated with traditional research methods.

The top 15 teams will be announced in February 2025, after which they will have the opportunity to participate in a two-week virtual hackathon. Based on their progress within this phase, three winners will be selected by a jury including: Georges-Olivier Reymond, CEO and Co-founder of Pasqal; Eun-Ah KIM, Research Fellow at National Assembly Futures Institute; Jayne Thompson, Institute of High-Performance Computing and A*STAR; Etienne de Rocquigny, CEO and Founder of Blaise Pascal Advisors; and Kristel Michielsen, Jülich Supercomputing Centre and the founder of EMBD.