Quantum for Business wants to educate and connect front-runner businesses who want to lead the quantum evolution. Our goal for organizing a round table such a this one is twofold: On one hand, we aim to inspire companies on the impact that quantum can have on business and society, and to look at the quantum fields of application that already exist at this very moment. And on the other hand, it offers a great opportunity for the (academic) quantum community to learn what the potential needs and expectations are from the business side of things.

For our second round table, we invited senior management of organizations such as KBC, Vandemoortele, De Cronos Groep, Achmea, Rituals, Manuchar, SodaFoundry, Upgrade Estate, Bridgestone and more.

Kees Eijkel launching the round table discussion‍

Round table presentation & discussion

After a short introduction of quantum and QuTech by Kees Eijkel, Frank Phillipson gave his view on the development of quantum computing:

• What? - the potential fields of application
• Why? - the sweet spots: where do quantum computers excel when compared to classic computers?
• When? - the expected timelines for commercial applications

Frank Phillipson presenting his views on current quantum computing developments‍

Frank stated that we are in a quantum evolution rather than in a quantum revolution: It will take time and effort to understand what problems can benefit from quantum solutions. On the other hand, it is important for business organizations to keep a close eye on the progress that is made towards technological milestones. No company that wants to be prepared for changes in the future can afford not to delve into the opportunities and yes, even threats posed by quantum computing.

According to Frank, here is what business managers should do now:

• Keep an eye on how quickly progress is being made toward key technological milestones.
• Have in place (or access to) (a team of) people who understand the implications of quantum computing
• Identify the company’s future needs, opportunities, and potential vulnerabilities.
• Make sure you have access to the technology and knowledge when needed.
• Do some early trials with the technology to see how it works for your company

A tour around QuTech quantum labs

The round table was concluded with a tour around the QuTech quantum labs and Quantum Inspire, a prototype full-stack quantum computer that serves as a training and education platform. It gave visitors a chance to see a Quantum computer up close and get an explanation on the technology required to keep it running and why optimising the processes involved is key to the future developments.

Kees Eijkel showing the visitors the Quantum Inspire computer‍

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