D-Wave Quantum Inc. (NYSE: QBTS), a provider of both annealing and gate-model quantum computing systems, announced its membership as an inaugural member of the Southeastern Quantum Collaborative (SQC). The collaborative, which also includes The University of Alabama in Huntsville, Davidson Technologies, IBM, and Alabama A&M University, aims to unite academia, industry, and government to advance quantum information science and technology across the Southeast.
The SQC focuses on accelerating the application of quantum computing and developing a quantum-ready workforce to commercialize the technology. D-Wave's participation is bolstered by the presence of a D-Wave Advantage2 system at Davidson Technologies' headquarters in Huntsville, Alabama, positioning the company to support the collaborative's workforce development initiatives.
Jack Sears, vice president of government business solutions at D-Wave, emphasized the importance of building a globally competitive quantum workforce in the region. “Establishing a globally competitive, quantum-ready workforce across the Southeast – capable of operationalizing annealing and gate-model systems for mission-critical decision-making, large-scale operational efficiency, and the protection of national interests – will be decisive in accelerating adoption throughout the region’s public and private sectors,” Sears said. He noted that by investing in quantum talent and infrastructure, the Southeast can become a national leader in quantum innovation, advanced manufacturing, energy, logistics, and defense.
D-Wave is the first commercial supplier of quantum computers and the only company offering dual-platform quantum computing services, including both annealing and gate-model technologies. Its Leap quantum cloud service provides 99.9% availability and uptime, serving more than 100 organizations across commercial, government, and research sectors. The company’s mission is to help customers realize the value of quantum computing today.
The SQC represents a strategic initiative to foster quantum technology development in a region known for its advanced technology sectors. By bringing together key players from different sectors, the collaborative seeks to create a robust ecosystem that can drive quantum innovation and economic growth. D-Wave's involvement underscores its commitment to expanding quantum computing access and expertise beyond traditional tech hubs.
For more information, the full press release is available at https://ibn.fm/Pitiq.


