Yale University is leading an initiative to advance fault-tolerant quantum computing, supported by a $1,566,250 grant from the National Science Foundation’s National Quantum Virtual Laboratory program. D-Wave Quantum Inc. will contribute its superconducting dual-rail gate-model quantum computing resources to the ERASE project, collaborating with researchers from multiple academic institutions and industry organizations. This funding demonstrates the NSF’s commitment to scalable quantum technologies and builds on existing U.S. government support for D-Wave’s innovations. “NSF’s continued support for the ERASE project highlights the national importance of accelerating progress toward scalable, fault-tolerant quantum computing,” said Dr. Alan Baratz, CEO of D-Wave, emphasizing the project’s role in strengthening U.S. leadership in the field.
NSF Grant Supports ERASE Project for Fault-Tolerant Computing
D-Wave Quantum Inc. will contribute its dual-rail gate-model quantum computing technology to the initiative, providing researchers with a platform for exploring fault tolerance strategies. This funding, awarded through the NQVL program, specifically supports access to D-Wave’s superconducting gate-model resources via its subsidiary, Quantum Circuits, LLC, located in New Haven, Connecticut. This second phase of NQVL funding demonstrates sustained confidence in the project’s approach to achieving scalable, fault-tolerant systems. Researchers will utilize selected development interfaces and APIs to test novel software, compiler designs, and error-correction methods on D-Wave’s hardware, accelerating the development of technologies needed to scale gate-model quantum computing beyond current limitations. The project extends beyond technological advancement, prioritizing workforce development through collaborations with academic and industrial partners to cultivate a skilled quantum talent pipeline.
NSF’s continued support for the ERASE project highlights the national importance of accelerating progress toward scalable, fault-tolerant quantum computing.
Dr. Alan Baratz, CEO of D-Wave
D-Wave’s Dual-Rail Technology Enables Gate-Model Quantum Access
This funding, awarded through the NQVL program, provides researchers with access to D-Wave’s unique dual-rail gate-model technology, differentiating it from competitors focused on a single quantum approach. Led by Yale University, the ERASE project unites academic and industry partners to tackle the challenges of building fault-tolerant quantum computers, and D-Wave’s New-Haven subsidiary, Quantum Circuits, LLC, will be central to this effort. The collaboration centers on granting ERASE researchers direct access to D-Wave’s superconducting dual-rail gate-model quantum computing resources, allowing exploration of novel software, compiler designs, and error-correction techniques. This access is facilitated through selected development interfaces and APIs, designed to accelerate the scaling of gate-model quantum computing. The project extends beyond hardware, prioritizing the development of a skilled quantum workforce through partnerships with academic institutions.
We believe that some of the most important breakthroughs in quantum computing will come from deep collaboration across disciplines, institutions and industry.
Mowaffak Midani, principal investigator and head of gate-model quantum solutions at D-Wave
$100 Million CHIPS Act Funding to Scale Quantum Systems
D-Wave Quantum Inc. receives direct support for the ERASE (Erasure Qubits and Dynamic Circuits for Quantum Advantage) project, a collaborative effort spearheaded by Yale University and involving both academic institutions and industry partners. This investment focuses not only on hardware but also on bolstering the development of foundational technologies crucial for building fault-tolerant quantum computers, a significant hurdle in the field. Mowaffak Midani, principal investigator and head of gate-model quantum solutions at D-Wave, emphasized the collaborative spirit driving the project, stating, “By giving researchers access to our technology and working alongside leaders from academia and industry, we’re creating an environment where new ideas can be rapidly tested, refined and translated into real-world impact.” The NSF grant builds upon broader government support for D-Wave, including a recently announced Letter of Intent for $100 million in proposed CHIPS and Science Act funding.
This larger investment intends to accelerate the scaling of both D-Wave’s annealing and gate-model systems, demonstrating a commitment to strengthening U.S. leadership in quantum innovation. The ERASE project also has historical significance, stemming from dual-rail technology originally pioneered and advanced at Yale University through Quantum Circuits, Inc., which D-Wave later acquired. Alan Baratz, CEO of D-Wave, stated that the project represents a significant step toward realizing the potential of quantum computing.
