Europe must move beyond scientific achievement to build a truly competitive quantum industry, according to a new report from the European Quantum Industry Consortium (QuIC). The consortium frames existing research strength as merely the foundation, identifying stronger customer demand, deeper capital markets and resource access as now critical for scalable growth.
QuIC emphasizes that “translating scientific breakthroughs into commercially successful technologies requires more than scientific excellence,” and calls for industry perspectives to be central to future policy development. The report outlines five key recommendations to transform potential into a competitive, scalable and sustainable European quantum sector.
Make the state the first customer Public procurement can create the demand
A growing trend sees public procurement positioned as a key driver for expanding the European quantum technology sector. The European Quantum Industry Consortium (QuIC) advocates for coordinated procurement programs designed to stimulate demand and provide commercial opportunities for European suppliers. These programs should be competitive and multi-vendor, ensuring a diverse range of companies can participate in early-stage market development. QuIC frames this approach as essential for translating scientific strengths into a fully realized industrial base, moving beyond research and into sustained economic growth.
Increasingly, the focus is shifting toward securing early customers to de-risk investment and accelerate innovation. The consortium believes that strategic public sector purchasing can establish a stable foundation for quantum companies, allowing them to scale operations and compete globally. “Public procurement can create the demand needed for quantum companies to grow,” according to the QuIC report, highlighting the importance of government as an initial adopter.
This emphasis on demand-side measures represents a departure from solely prioritizing research and development. By actively shaping the market through procurement, Europe aims to establish itself not just as a source of quantum innovation, but as a global leader in its commercialization.
Deepen the capital base and improve public funding European quantum companies require
European quantum companies face hurdles accessing consistent investment, hindering development beyond initial research phases. The report identifies lengthy public decision-making as a key restriction on growth, alongside existing funding gaps that limit expansion potential. The consortium advocates for deeper capital markets, suggesting a need for more readily available private investment alongside public support to fuel sustained innovation.
More effective governance of existing public financial instruments is also important, streamlining access to available resources for quantum businesses. The report emphasizes that securing consistent funding is about increasing the total amount available and about improving the speed and efficiency of its distribution.
Enable debt financing against contracted revenue Access to financing should also improve
A growing trend within the European quantum sector focuses on innovative financing mechanisms to fuel expansion beyond research and development. The report proposes enabling debt financing secured against contracted revenue, a strategy designed to support company growth while lessening reliance on equity investments. This approach acknowledges that securing customers is a key indicator of future stability and allows companies to use predictable income streams for immediate capital.
The consortium frames access to capital as directly linked to confirmed business, suggesting a shift from solely funding potential to rewarding demonstrated market traction. The report recommends mechanisms allowing companies to raise debt based on these contracts, providing a financial bridge during scaling phases.
Strengthen reciprocity in purchasing and investment Europe must also consider the international
The report recommends these measures to ensure fair competition as European companies expand internationally, acknowledging that domestic strength alone is insufficient for sustained growth. The consortium advocates for policies that mirror the access European firms receive in other markets, leveling the playing field for a sector increasingly reliant on global supply chains. This push for reciprocity extends beyond procurement, encompassing investment flows and safeguarding European industrial interests from potentially unbalanced economic pressures.
The report frames this as vital for supporting a truly competitive quantum ecosystem, moving beyond simply achieving scientific milestones. The report suggests that a proactive approach to international trade and investment will be important for realizing the potential of European quantum technologies. Accordingly, the report proposes that Europe actively seek agreements that promote balanced access to markets and capital, ensuring that European companies can compete effectively on a global scale.
Monitor the market as the industry develops Finally
Effective industrial policy demands consistent evaluation of emerging trends, according to the report. By tracking industry developments, investment patterns and commercial advancements, policymakers can refine strategies as the quantum sector matures and responds to market signals. The report’s recommendations aim to create conditions for quantum firms to secure customers and attract investment while maintaining a European industrial base.
The consortium highlights that these measures are not isolated efforts, but part of a broader need for sustained collaboration between industry, policymakers, researchers and investors. The report envisions a transition from technological strength to lasting industrial competitiveness and economic value.
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