Fraunhofer INQUBATOR Offers Businesses Quantum Computing Access Without Hardware

Fraunhofer has opened applications for INQUBATOR, a program offering businesses access to quantum computing resources without requiring investment in their own hardware. Companies of all sizes can submit use cases until August 31, 2026, for a chance to collaborate with Fraunhofer institutes on approximately ten-month development projects. A key benefit of the initiative is the ability to test solutions and compare hardware directly within developed applications. “Quantum computing is no longer just a future possibility—but for many businesses, it still feels distant,” explains Dr. Walter Hahn, project leader at Fraunhofer IAF, adding that INQUBATOR delivers practical access and tangible benefits. At least four use cases will be selected from the submissions to further explore promising quantum algorithms and their economic validation.

Fraunhofer INQUBATOR Facilitates Access to Quantum Computing

Fraunhofer’s INQUBATOR initiative addresses a key barrier to quantum computing adoption: businesses no longer need to invest in expensive hardware to explore its potential. The program, launched with an open call for use cases, provides access to a diverse range of quantum computers sourced from international manufacturers, allowing for direct hardware comparisons within developed applications. This approach moves beyond theoretical exploration, enabling companies to test algorithms and develop tailored applications with the support of Fraunhofer’s network of research institutes, IAO, IAF, IPA, and ITWM, without the substantial upfront costs typically associated with quantum experimentation. Participants will receive personalized consulting and collaborative development of strategies to maximize the economic impact of their applications. The application period, recently opened, will close on August 31, 2026, after which a rigorous selection process will identify at least four promising use cases for a period of approximately ten months.

Each selected project will culminate in a detailed exploitation plan, outlining a pathway to practical implementation and commercial viability. “INQUBATOR bridges this gap: We provide businesses with practical access to real quantum computing and support their own use cases so that the technology can deliver tangible benefits where it is needed most—in practice.” This initiative is particularly aimed at organizations new to quantum computing, offering a low-risk entry point to identify relevant challenges and collaborate on efficient solutions. The program’s focus extends beyond simply running algorithms; it prioritizes validation of quantum solutions within real-world economic contexts. Funded by the German Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space (BMFTR) with grant number 13N17420, INQUBATOR is currently focused on initial use cases in medicine, cybersecurity, insurance, and the automotive industry, with plans to expand to include additional industry partners and applications in the near future.

Joint Development of Use Cases with Fraunhofer Institutes

Beyond simply offering access to quantum hardware, Fraunhofer Institutes are actively seeking collaborative development through the INQUBATOR program, inviting businesses to submit specific use cases for joint exploration. This initiative acknowledges a critical barrier to quantum adoption; while the technology is rapidly maturing, translating potential into practical application remains elusive for many organizations. The program’s structure prioritizes tangible outcomes, moving beyond theoretical demonstrations to address real-world challenges in sectors like medicine, cybersecurity, insurance, and automotive engineering, areas already under investigation with preliminary use cases. Participants are not expected to possess existing quantum infrastructure or deep expertise, lowering the barrier to entry and fostering broader innovation. The application window, open until August 31, 2026, will culminate in the selection of at least four projects for a period of approximately ten months of intensive joint development.

A key benefit of the initiative is the ability to test solutions and allow for direct hardware comparisons within developed applications. This allows for a more nuanced evaluation than simply leveraging a single vendor’s technology, potentially identifying the best hardware for specific algorithmic demands. This emphasis on economic validation underscores the program’s commitment to translating research into practical impact. Dr.