Strategic partnership
The collaboration agreement between the Basque Government and IBM for the promotion of Quantum Technologies was signed in 2023.
This strategic partnership aims to position the Basque Country as a key player in the global field of Quantum Technologies, leveraging IBM’s leading-edge expertise in this emerging field.
The main objectives of the agreement are to advance quantum research and development, foster innovation, and build a robust ecosystem for quantum computing in the region. This agreement not only represents a commitment to scientific and technological progress but also seeks to establish a foundation for future economic growth by integrating Quantum Technologies into local industry and academia.
Quantum computer
In 2025, IBM will install a state-of-the-art quantum computer in Donostia, the sixth in IBM's global network of quantum supercomputers
In 2025, the IBM Quantum System One, a state-of-the-art quantum computer, will be installed in Donostia as part of the BasQ initiative. This system will be the sixth in IBM's global network of quantum supercomputers, following those already deployed in the United States, Germany, Japan, Canada, and South Korea.
The installation of this quantum computer will mark a significant technological and scientific advancement for the Basque Country and beyond.
The IBM Quantum System One will provide access to high-performance quantum computing capabilities, allowing researchers and companies to conduct cutting-edge experiments and simulations in various fields such as quantum chemistry, materials science, optimization and machine learning.
Activites in collaboration with IBM
Joint Research Activities
In collaboration with IBM, BasQ engages in cutting-edge research activities aimed at advancing quantum computing and its applications. Central to this collaboration are Joint Research Agreements, which foster a collaborative environment where researchers from BasQ and IBM work together to address scientific challenges and unlock new possibilities in areas such as optimization, quantum machine learning, and materials science
Education and Workforce Development Activities
BasQ collaborates with IBM to advance Workforce and Education activities, fostering skill development and community engagement. Key initiatives include the Road to Utility and Road to Practitioner Programs, which provide structured learning paths to empower participants with foundational and advanced quantum computing skills.
Additionally, BasQ and IBM co-organize workshops, hands-on training sessions and specialized challenges to encourage innovation and practical application of quantum computing. These activities aim to build a robust talent pool, foster collaboration and equip participants with the expertise needed to tackle real-world quantum computing experiments and use cases.
Innovation-oriented Activities
BasQ and IBM are committed to enabling Euskadi to emerge as a leading quantum-powered economy, where well established companies and startups can leverage quantum computing services to develop business-driven solutions. Through initiatives such as workshops, tailored training programs and match-making platforms, they raise awareness, upskill professionals and promote collaboration.
Access to BasQ´s dedicated quantum system is also a key driver for fostering experimentation, innovation and the development of cutting-edge solutions tailored to industry-specific challenges.