Sherbrooke, QC, April 14, 2025 -- Quminex, an early-stage Canadian tech startup, has been named a Top Innovator in the Quantum for Society Challenge by UpLink, the innovation platform for people and planet by World Economic Forum.

Quminex is revolutionizing mineral exploration through cutting-edge, data-driven technologies that enhance resource security and accelerate the discovery of critical mineral deposits. By harnessing the power of artificial intelligence and quantum computing, Quminex transforms complex datasets into actionable insights, enabling smarter decision-making while reducing risk and uncertainty in exploration. With a focus on transparency, sustainability, and credibility, Quminex is committed to driving efficient and responsible discoveries that ensure a stable and secure supply of critical metals for the future.

The Quantum for Society Challenge sought out impactful, scalable solutions aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The selected technologies would use quantum technology to tackle critical needs in climate, materials and manufacturing, healthcare, agriculture, food systems, and freshwater systems.

Initially selected from 100 submissions, Quminex was chosen as a Top Innovator after a competitive final round of 23 teams. Top Innovators now benefit from a three-year curated Engagement program that includes global visibility, participation in high-profile events and access to international partners, collaborators and investors.

“Selection as a Top Innovator by Uplink is an incredible honour,” said Marc Fassbender, Quminex Chief Executive Officer. “It’s further proof that our technology has the potential to make a profound impact.”

Top Innovators were announced today on World Quantum Day in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Pre-seed Investment from QV Studio, and Quantacet, Quantonation.

In addition to Top Innovator honours, Quminex recently secured pre-seed investments from QV Studio, Quantacet, and Quantonation. This foundational funding lays the groundwork for Quminex growth and further technology development.

Quminex is one of the first companies accepted into the QV Studio program at Distriq in Sherbrooke, Quebec.

“Incorporating and investing in Quminex marks an exciting milestone for QV Studio” said Sarah Jenna, Managing director of QV Studio. “Their development of cutting-edge quantum and AI algorithms for mineral exploration presents a unique opportunity for innovation in the sector. We are particularly impressed by the caliber of the co-founders and strongly believe in Quminex’s mandate to create solutions that contribute positively to society, a core tenet of QV Studio’s investment philosophy.”

The strength and experience of the Quminex founders has strengthened the company’s pre-seed round and attracted investment from the quantum investment sector including Quantacet and Quantonation.

“At Quantacet, we believe that quantum technologies can have a transformational impact on society, especially when they are spearheaded by application-driven entrepreneurs,” said Chloé Archambault, Partner, Quantacet. “Quminex, whose founders have vast experience in the mineral exploration industry, is a prime example of that vision.”

Christophe Jurczak, managing Partner, Quantonation said “We’re proud to support Quminex as the first company from QV Studio that Quantonation is investing in. Their unique combination of cutting-edge quantum science and deep expertise in mineral exploration is exactly the kind of interdisciplinary strength we believe drives real impact. We are excited by the potential of quantum technology to find the natural resources that will power the industries of the future.”