On November 24, Xanadu, one of the world leaders in photonic quantum computing, unveiled the genesis of the Canada Quantum Network (CQN). This network was built in partnership with MaRS and Creative Destruction Lab (CDL).
Initially starting with three nodes located at these three companies, the CQN will allow partnered organisations to test and develop new quantum application ideas. In particular, quantum cryptography, communications, and computing are the main focus. There are similar networks in China, the U.S., the Netherlands, and the U.K., though this is a first for Canada.
‘We believe that deploying a quantum network in Canada with a collaborative set of Canadian partners will jumpstart both innovation and economic development in the emerging field of quantum technology. Our initial partners, MaRS and Creative Destruction Lab, will support entrepreneurs in developing new kinds of applications on the Canada Quantum Network. Working together we can find the appropriate leverage for quantum technologies while building Canada’s leadership in quantum computing.’
Christian Weedbrook, Xanadu Founder and CEO
Some of the possibilities that the CQN can create are quantum communication, quantum sensing, and distributed quantum computing applications. This can lead to unhackable elections, secure financial transactions, and boost national security for all fronts. Quantum networks that use photonic quantum computing can use existing infrastructure and fibre networks, but the potential for new possibilities is unlimited. There may be undiscovered opportunities out there.
‘MaRS is a launchpad for startups, a platform for researchers and a home to innovators. We jumped at the chance to work with Xanadu in creating the CQN. It will lay a critical foundation to create new companies and new applications with strong societal impact. The development of quantum computers is accelerating and quantum networks are required to take advantage of quantum computing. The creation of the CQN allows Canada to retain and grow the talent pool for quantum applications and is an important cornerstone in the development of the next big industry in Canada.’
Yung Wu, CEO of MaRS
‘We are thrilled to participate in the availability of a test bed quantum network which will enable adoption of quantum technologies, generate new ventures and enable sustainable research to build companies. The first phase of the CQN in Toronto is the stepping stone towards the long term vision of a nation-wide quantum internet across Canada. Xanadu is a CDL alumni and one of five technology partners in CDL Quantum, an objectives-based program offering a robust set of resources for new founders to launch and scale a startup in the quantum ecosystem.’
Sonia Sennik, Executive Director at Creative Destruction Lab
It is expected that the Canada Quantum Network will allow initial access in 2021 after construction.
About Xanadu
Xanadu is a Canadian quantum company with the goal to build accessible quantum computers. Since its founding in 2016, Xanadu has become a world leader in quantum hardware and software. The company is leading the development of Pennylane, an open-source software library for quantum application development and machine learning.
About MaRS
MaRS supports more than 1200 Canadian tech and science companies that tackle the greatest challenges in society. It provides them with resources to help them grow at every stage. It focuses on cleantech, health, fintech, and enterprise software, as the potential here is the greatest to strengthen the economy.
About Creative Destruction Lab
CDL is a nonprofit organisation that helps science and tech companies. It has a nine-month program to allow founders to learn and grow their companies for success. It was founded in 2012 by Prof. Ajay Agrawal at the University of Toronto’s Rotman School of Management.