National Optics Institute receives over $1.2M in federal support to strengthen Quebec’s quantum ecosystem

The Government of Canada is offering a non‑repayable contribution of $1,235,000 to the National Optics Institute (INO) to strengthen Quebec’s quantum ecosystem. This CED support over three years (2023‑2026) will cover employee salaries, professional fees, and outreach activities in order to provide guidance adapted to the specific needs of start‑ups in the quantum sector.

“The support announced by CED will enable Quantino to accompany even more start‑ups that will revolutionize the industries of tomorrow so they can reach the commercialization stage, manufacture at home, and export around the world,” said Alain Chandonnet, president and CEO of INO.

Quantino is a deep tech incubator in the optics, photonics, quantum, and medical technologies sectors, created in 2020 by INO, the largest centre of expertise in optics and photonics in Canada. Its team accompanies emerging businesses by giving them access to frontline infrastructure, cutting‑edge equipment, and world-renowned expertise. CED’s assistance will enable it to strengthen its capacity to support the creation and launch of businesses that develop, adopt, or commercialize quantum technologies with an intensive hardware component.

Supporting the development, adoption, and commercialization of quantum technologies helps to position Quebec’s organizations in this emerging area, while also reinforcing Canada’s leadership globally. The announcement was made by the Honourable Jean‑Yves Duclos, Member of Parliament for Québec and Minister of Public Services and Procurement, and the Honourable Pablo Rodriguez, Minister of Transport and Quebec Lieutenant, on behalf of the Honourable Soraya Martinez Ferrada, Minister of Tourism and Minister responsible for CED.

To support Canada’s quantum sector and solidify the country’s position among the leaders in this fast‑growing field, the Government of Canada has developed a National Quantum Strategy. The goal of the strategy is to help Canadian businesses adopt quantum technologies so that they can position themselves in this emerging field and generate economic benefits for the entire community.