Quantum startups have been making waves in the tech world for the past few years, and 2024 is no exception, particularly in the Netherlands.
With the ability to solve complex problems in healthcare, logistics, and various other sectors, these startups are getting their deserved attention and funding from global investors.
The potential for quantum computing is endless.
They can tackle challenges that traditional computers can’t handle efficiently, from simulating molecules for drug discovery to optimising large supply chains.
Backing for quantum startups continues to grow as investors want to shape the future and get ahead of the curve by backing early-stage tech leaders.
Among the quantum startups that are making waves, several Dutch companies have secured significant funding this year.
Back in July this year, Quantum Delta NL (QDNL), the Netherlands’ national ecosystem for excellence in quantum innovation, secured €273M investment from The National Growth Fund (NGF) as part of the third phase of the QDNL programme.
The goal of QDNL is to accelerate scientific developments, stimulating commercialisation of quantum technology and thereby growing the quantum economy.
The announcement comes a couple of months after House of Quantum (HoQ) ‘s second location’s opening. The HoQ is the world’s first national quantum campus with various buildings where companies that work with quantum technology can set up shop.
These startups are not only advancing quantum technology but also expanding their teams, creating exciting career opportunities.
Here’s the list of some Dutch quantum startups that recently raised funding and are hiring:
Qblox
HQ: Delft
Founder/s: Niels Bultink and Jules Van Oven
Fund raised in 2024: €24.2M
Hiring: Yes| Apply here
Qblox is a provider of scalable and modular quantum control stack — Cluster.
The cluster combines key technologies for qubit control and readout with a modular solution supporting a wide variety of customers and qubit platforms.
The Dutch company continues to advance hardware and software that are agnostic to qubit types, sophisticated, and scalable to support operations on thousands of qubits.
Orange Quantum Systems
HQ: Delft
Founder/s: Adriaan Rol, Kelvin Loh, Garrelt Alberts, Amber Van Hauwermeiren and Thorsten Last
Fund raised in 2024: NA
Hiring: Yes| Apply here
Orange Quantum Systems (OrangeQS) helps the quantum chip industry shift from lab prototypes to mass production by cutting testing costs and accelerating development.
According to OrangeQS, quantum chips are nearing the point of surpassing traditional supercomputers, but testing remains the “biggest” bottleneck.
Rapid testing machines are crucial for accelerating the development of new generations of quantum chips, allowing for faster production in larger volumes.
OrangeQS is the world’s first company to offer a ready-made and affordable testing alternative for quantum chip builders, distinguishing itself in an industry where in-house development is prevalent.
Q*Bird
HQ: Delft
CEO: Ingrid Romijn
Fund raised in 2024: €2.5M
Hiring: Yes| Apply here
Q*Bird has developed a unique quantum cryptography (QKD) product called Falqon, which is based on the fundamental laws of nature.
It provides provable security against any attack, including those from future quantum computers.
The Dutch company’s goal is to protect data communications and digital infrastructure, using patented technology that outperforms the competition on security and cost.
The company is currently involved in a large-scale trial of its technology at the Port of Rotterdam, a key part of the European trade economy. It has already secured a launch customer for Falqon, and its product line is due to officially launch later in the year.
In addition, it has already signed three other contracts to deploy quantum networks across Europe and partnered with Eurofiber to enhance the security of its networks and its customers.
Groove Quantum
HQ: Delft
Founder/s: Anne-Marije Zwerver
Fund raised in 2024: NA
Hiring: No
Groove Quantum is pioneering advancements in quantum computing by utilising the unique
properties of germanium.
The company focuses on developing compact quantum chips that can accommodate millions of qubits, offering enhanced computational power.
By merging semiconductor technology with innovative quantum architectures, Groove Quantum aims to create robust and cost-effective solutions.
With a team of experts at the helm, the company is committed to driving progress in quantum technology, making it accessible and impactful across various industries.
QphoX
HQ: Delft
CEO: Simon Groeblacher
Fund raised in 2024: €8M
Hiring: Yes| Apply here
QphoX is a quantum transduction company. The first quantum modem developed by OphoX will link quantum computers in a quantum network. The foundation of the upcoming quantum internet will be their technology.
Through optical interconnects operating at room temperature, it will enable remote communication between quantum computers.
They use a mechanical intermediary resonator to couple microwave and optical photons to create a quantum transducer. This synchronised, reversible method is based on the piezoelectric and optomechanical effects.
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