Executive summary

Disruptive potential of quantum technologies

Quantum technologies represent a frontier with game-changing potential, including breakthroughs in areas such as healthcare, climate solutions, and security. However, they remain in the early stages of development, with global competition intensifying and uncertainty over which qubit technologies will dominate.

Smart collaboration for global impact

Governments and industries worldwide are racing to lead in quantum. The Nordic-Baltic countries have limited resources, so combining them strategically and using them smartly is essential. Pooling efforts across borders not only increases efficiency but also creates agility, turning constraints into advantages. The region's strong research base, culture of collaboration, and shared values offer a solid foundation for efforts to achieve a quantum leadership role.

Quantum business development across the Nordic-Baltic

Denmark, Finland, and Sweden lead regional quantum technology development with strong research ecosystems and active commercial initiatives, particularly in quantum computing and sensing. Norway is advancing and focusing on quantum sensing. The Baltic countries, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, are strengthening their positions through research and foundational developments, with a growing emphasis on quantum communication. Iceland contributes primarily through academic research.

Nordic strongholds and emerging opportunities

The Nordic region excels in superconducting quantum computing, quantum photonics and optics, and quantum life sciences, backed by world-class research and growing commercial activity. Promising opportunities in Nordic-Baltic are also emerging in defense, advanced manufacturing, and financial services. These strongholds and growth areas offer a strategic edge and global potential through collaboration and investment.

Three high-impact policy recommendations

The analysis identified key policy gaps and systemic needs shaping the quantum landscape in the Nordic-Baltic area. To address these, three priority actions stand out for their impact and feasibility at this stage. In addition to these targeted steps, a broader set of supporting actions referred to as the policy toolbox has been identified to complement national strategies and drive quantum technology development.

Establish a Quantum coordination forum
A lightweight coordination forum should be established to align strategies, coordinate cross-border efforts, and identify regional synergies across the Nordic-Baltic quantum ecosystem. Building on existing national and regional structures, the forum would act as a connective layer, avoiding duplication, supporting joint initiatives, and translating political ambition into effective collaboration. Dedicated funding is essential to ensure its long-term impact.
Establish a Nordic-Baltic quantum thought leadership and strategic influence initiative
Position the Nordic-Baltic region as a recognized thought leader in quantum technologies by coordinating joint contributions to international policy, standardization, and strategic foresight. This initiative will amplify the region’s influence in shaping global quantum agendas by mobilising research, industry, and public sector voices in key international forums.
Launch ambitious cross-country pilot projects
Establish collaborative, research-driven pilot projects involving research organizations, technology providers, and end-users. Accelerate technology readiness, engage end-users in development, and elevate the Nordic-Baltic brand as a quantum technology leader. Combine public and private funding to support the pilots.

Positioning the Nordic-Baltic region at the forefront of quantum innovation

Quantum technologies are rapidly evolving and poised to drive breakthroughs across various sectors. Recognizing both the promise and the urgency of coordinated action, the Nordic Prime Ministers and Heads of Government issued a joint statement in May 2025, committing to deeper regional cooperation to strengthen the Nordic position in the global quantum race. The declaration highlights a shared ambition to foster the responsible development of quantum technologies and to position the Nordics as a global hub for quantum innovation.

This report supports that vision by offering a comprehensive, data-driven analysis of the Nordic-Baltic quantum landscape. It maps the region’s commercial activity, identifies key technological strongholds, and outlines policy recommendations to accelerate market formation, attract investment, and promote cross-border collaboration. It emphasizes how shared action-aligned strategies, joint pilots, and a common voice in international forums can multiply the region’s impact and secure its leadership in the future quantum economy.

Now is the moment to act decisively. By uniting efforts and pooling resources, the Nordic-Baltic countries can turn scientific excellence into commercial impact and secure a leading role in the global quantum landscape.