This study supports policymakers by providing a clear overview of strengthening the Nordic and Baltic region’s position in quantum technologies. To build that understanding, the work began with a country-level analysis, followed by a regional synthesis and a comparison to global developments.
The project started with a review of national strategies, funding instruments, policy initiatives, and prior reports. This background research helped identify each country’s state of quantum technology development and guided the overall structure of the analysis. Furthermore, the study used databases and company websites to identify key business players in each country.
A total of 28 stakeholder theme interviews were conducted across the region. Interviewees included representatives from startups, established firms, public organizations, universities, and funding bodies. The interviews provided practical insights into the national quantum ecosystems, key actors, dynamics, technology readiness, and collaboration opportunities at the Nordic-Baltic level.
In Denmark, Finland, and Sweden, the focus was on commercial activity, startup formation, and public-private innovation partnerships, reflecting more advanced quantum-technology landscapes. In Norway, Iceland, and the Baltic states, where quantum business activity is still emerging, the analysis emphasized academic strengths, early-stage testbeds, infrastructure investments, and policy frameworks that provide the foundation for future growth.
A comprehensive map of the Nordic-Baltic quantum ecosystem was developed based on this analysis, highlighting commercial activities in quantum computing, communication, and sensing.
The patent analysis consisted of two parts. First, it examined the number of European patent families in all three quantum domains and benchmarked the region against the most patent-active countries globally. Second, it analyzed the number of patent families held by Nordic-Baltic companies, offering insight into innovation activity in the area. The patent search queries used in the analysis are listed in the appendix.
Workshops played a central role in validating and shaping the policy recommendations. Participants used a regional SWOT analysis in the first workshop to identify and align key actions with strategic policy objectives. The second workshop focused on assessing the relevance of different policy instruments for supporting six strategic goals and refining potential policy measures. After the workshops, participants evaluated the proposed measures using a structured framework based on impact and feasibility through inquiries.