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National quantum ecosystems

This chapter overviews the national quantum technology ecosystems across the Nordic and Baltic countries. It primarily focuses on commercial actors and the policy and funding instruments that support their development. While some countries have a long-standing tradition in quantum technologies and are already advancing commercial activities across computing, communication, and sensing, others are more recently recognizing the strategic importance of building quantum business ecosystems. Across the region, a combination of research-driven innovation, startup formation, and targeted public-private collaboration is shaping the future landscape. This chapter highlights emerging companies, flagship initiatives, and government efforts aimed at fostering commercialization, attracting investment, and integrating national strengths into the broader European and global quantum economy.

Denmark

Denmark’s quantum technology business ecosystem is rooted in a long and significant history of world-class scientific research. In addition, Denmark has built targeted infrastructure and fostered a culture of strong public-private partnerships to turn scientific breakthroughs into commercial solutions. The Danish Quantum Community, leading universities such as the University of Copenhagen, Technical University of Denmark, Aarhus University, University of Southern Denmark, and Aalborg University, and industry clusters collaborate closely to promote knowledge exchange, matchmaking, and pilot projects. Initiatives like “express licenses” for academic spin-offs help streamline tech transfer.

Quantum technology development in Denmark

Denmark is highly active in quantum computing research and hardware and algorithm development. The country hosts a vibrant mix of startups like Kvantify and QPurpose, alongside global players like Microsoft Quantum Materials Lab, an IBM Quantum Hub, and Atom Computing. Research spans quantum error correction, quantum simulation, and application-specific algorithms, particularly for life sciences and optimization problems.

A distinctive feature of Denmark’s approach is the Novo Nordisk Foundation Quantum Computing Program (NQCP), which adopts a multi-modality strategy. Rather than focusing on a single qubit type, NQCP supports parallel research in superconducting qubits, trapped ions, and photonic qubits. This flexible model aims to identify and scale the most viable platform for a fault-tolerant quantum computer while minimizing early-stage technology lock-in.

On the quantum sensing front, Denmark leverages its strong capabilities in precision measurement, photonics, and atomic physics. A major initiative, the Center for Biomedical Quantum Sensing, targets biomedical applications, aiming to establish a new paradigm of quantum-enabled medicine. It brings together leading research groups to develop highly sensitive sensors for diagnostics, biological imaging, and health monitoring. National efforts also explore sensing applications for energy systems, defense, and navigation, building on Denmark’s strengths in photonics and precision engineering.

In quantum communication, Denmark focuses on secure transmission and quantum key distribution (QKD). Research institutions and companies are piloting secure communication solutions for the public sector and critical infrastructure. Parallel efforts support integration of post-quantum cryptography into existing systems. The forthcoming International Quantum Hub and related security initiatives aim to position Denmark as a trusted provider of quantum-secure technologies, enhancing both domestic resilience and international partnerships.

National actions to advance quantum technology in Denmark

The Danish government has launched a comprehensive National Strategy for Quantum Technology. Initially focused on research leadership, it now expands toward commercialization, security, and global collaboration. More than DKK 1 billion has been allocated to quantum R&D for 2023–2027, with an additional DKK 200 million directed toward market development, internationalization, and strengthening national resilience.

Innovation Fund Denmark has introduced a strategic program with DKK 150 million to support basic and applied research, talent development, interdisciplinary collaboration, testing and demonstration facilities, entrepreneurship, and standards development.

To bridge the gap between research and commercialization, the government is establishing Quantum House Denmark—providing co-working space, prototyping labs, and business development services — and a National Test Center funded by the Novo Nordisk Foundation to offer shared access to precision measurement and fabrication tools. A National Forum for Quantum Technology brings together academia, industry, startups, and funders to align objectives and address ecosystem-level challenges. Demonstration projects led by industry and public-sector actors showcase early-stage quantum applications.

Internationally, the upcoming International Quantum Hub aims to highlight Denmark’s strengths, attract global talent, and build new research and business alliances. A dedicated secretariat will coordinate national efforts to detect and mitigate emerging quantum security threats, from post-quantum cryptography deployment to critical infrastructure protection.

Finland

Finland’s position as one of Europe’s most dynamic hubs for quantum technologies stems from decades of sustained excellence in low-temperature physics, cryogenics, and microsystem engineering. This long-standing scientific and technical foundation has gradually evolved into a robust quantum ecosystem that now spans foundational science, hardware, software, sensing, and communication. Today, Finland combines world-class research, deep industrial expertise, and a growing commercial sector.

Quantum technology development in Finland

Research infrastructures in micro-, nano-, and quantum technologies are at the core of Finland's quantum ecosystem, developed through long-standing collaboration between Aalto University and VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland. The ecosystem has been supported by consistent public investment, particularly through the Academy of Finland, which has funded Centers of Excellence in quantum research since the mid-1990s. More recently, InstituteQ was established to strengthen national coordination and networking among key players in academia, industry, and education, promoting Finland’s cohesive and forward-looking approach to quantum development.

On the commercial side, quantum computing is Finland’s most visible and internationally competitive segment. Two key companies are Bluefors and IQM Quantum Computers. Bluefors is the world’s leading supplier of dilution refrigerators — essential for operating most quantum computers — while IQM is one of Europe’s top hardware companies, developing superconducting quantum processors and full-stack quantum computing systems. VTT spin-off SemiQon is also developing silicon-based quantum processors that offer scalability and compatibility with existing industrial manufacturing. Startups such as Algorithmiq, Quanscient, Arctic Instruments, and QMill have recently secured multi-million-euro investments to accelerate quantum algorithms and simulations growth.

Finland also has a long-standing tradition in superconducting sensor technologies, which build on the same low-temperature expertise underpinning its quantum computing sector. In quantum sensing, Finland hosts a complete commercial value chain, especially in SQUID (Superconducting Quantum Interference Device) technologies. This chain ranges from sensor development at VTT, through companies like Aivon Oy and Megin Oy, to delivery of advanced brain imaging systems used in hospitals worldwide. While Finland has been less prominent in photonic quantum technologies, interest in this area is growing. Photonics Finland, the national photonics association, supports both industrial development and scientific collaboration in photonic and quantum-enabled sensing applications.

Quantum communication is another growing field. Finnish research institutions actively participate in European initiatives such as EuroQCI, and national projects are underway to develop secure quantum links. While these technologies are not yet commercialized, they lay the groundwork for future quantum networks aligned with EU strategic objectives.

National actions to advance quantum technology in Finland

Finland’s policy framework is guided by the Quantum Technology Strategy 2025–2035, published by the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment in 2025. The strategy sets out an ambitious vision: to make Finland globally competitive, attract international investment, and apply quantum technologies to drive business and societal value by 2035.

Key goals include achieving €3 billion in quantum industry turnover and supporting 10,000 jobs, with Finland positioned as a globally trusted partner. Measures outlined in the strategy include the development of world-class quantum computing infrastructure (targeting a 1,000 logical qubit system), integrating high-performance computing and AI, globally leading quantum software development, and targeted support for component manufacturing. The strategy also emphasizes long-term funding for research, education, and innovation, and aims to strengthen the industrial ecosystem by aligning academia, business, and investors.

Internationally, Finland plays an active role in the EU Quantum Flagship and Nordic Quantum collaboration, supporting cross-border research, infrastructure development, and talent exchange. With a strong research base, a rapidly growing startup community, and a clear national policy, Finland is well-positioned to become a key European player in the commercialization and application of quantum technologies.

Sweden

Sweden has emerged as a significant player in the Nordic quantum landscape, supported by strong academic research, active international collaboration, and targeted private investment. While the country currently lacks a unified national quantum strategy, key institutions and initiatives — most notably the Wallenberg Centre for Quantum Technology (WACQT) — have positioned Sweden at the forefront of several quantum technology domains, including quantum computing, communication, and sensing.

Quantum technology development in Sweden

Quantum computing research in Sweden is centered around Chalmers University of Technology, which leads the WACQT initiative. Launched in 2018 with SEK 1.4 billion in funding from the Knut and Alice Wallenberg Foundation, WACQT’s flagship goal is to build a 100-qubit superconducting quantum computer by 2029. The program supports full-stack development — from hardware to software and algorithms — making Sweden one of the few countries globally pursuing such an integrated approach. In parallel, the Quantum Sweden Innovation Platform (QSIP), funded by the national innovation agency Vinnova, seeks to accelerate research translation into industrial applications and to strengthen collaboration between academia, startups, and large enterprises.

Quantum sensing is another promising area, particularly at Lund University, which hosts WACQT’s sensing research node. Sweden’s strengths in photonics, cryogenic electronics, and materials science underpin efforts to develop quantum sensors for precision measurement, navigation, and materials characterization. While still in the early stages of commercialization, several Swedish startups — such as AdamantQ, DeepLight Vision, and SpectraCure — are developing components relevant to sensing. Industrial interest is growing, particularly in telecommunications, defense, and life sciences. However, translating research into market-ready products remains a key challenge.

Sweden is also advancing quantum communication. KTH Royal Institute of Technology leads quantum key distribution (QKD) and quantum networks research. A significant milestone was when KTH inaugurated a pilot quantum communication facility in Stockholm to serve as Sweden’s national hub within the broader European Quantum Communication Infrastructure (EuroQCI). The project reflects strong collaboration between research excellence and industrial engagement. Major players such as Ericsson and innovative Swedish startups are actively involved in this dynamic innovation ecosystem.

Sweden’s quantum ecosystem is built on a foundation of technical expertise, world-class research institutions, and active collaboration between academia, industry, and private foundations. Initiatives like WACQT and QSIP demonstrate national capacity for innovation, while a growing number of startups, such as Scalinq and Con-Science, are beginning to translate scientific advances into commercial applications.

National actions to advance quantum technology in Sweden

In 2023, the Swedish Quantum Agenda was published, calling for a more cohesive national approach to quantum technologies. It identified key priorities, including increased public investment, targeted funding instruments, and better alignment between research, education, and industry. The agenda also noted structural challenges such as fragmented funding and limited access to venture capital.

In response, the Swedish government tasked the Swedish Research Council (Vetenskapsrådet) in 2024 with developing a national quantum strategy for 2025–2030. This forthcoming strategy is expected to provide a coordinated framework for guiding research priorities, infrastructure investments, education, and innovation policy, marking a key step toward long-term national planning in quantum technologies.

As quantum technologies move toward real-world deployment, Sweden is well-positioned to lead in several niche areas, supported by academic excellence and growing industrial engagement. Realizing this potential will require continued investment in talent, stronger policy coordination, and deeper international collaboration to ensure Sweden remains competitive in the rapidly evolving global quantum landscape.

Norway

Norway's quantum technology business ecosystem is currently less developed compared to its Nordic neighbors. Commercially oriented activities remain limited, but recent developments indicate increasing momentum in both research and policy.

Research strengths and collaborative efforts

Norwegian quantum research has traditionally been strong in theory, with institutions such as the University of Oslo, Oslo Metropolitan University, NTNU, and the University of Bergen playing key roles. These universities work on various topics, including quantum materials, condensed matter physics, quantum software engineering, and algorithm development. Although Norway has more limited experimental capacity than some of its peers, its researchers actively collaborate with international partners.

Emerging initiatives such as the Gemini Center on Quantum Computing and the OsloMet Quantum Hub are fostering a more coordinated research environment. Oslo Science City, Norway’s first innovation district, has also identified quantum technology as one of its focus areas to attract talent and encourage collaboration between academia and industry.

Policy developments

In response to the growing importance of quantum technologies, the Norwegian government has announced plans to develop a national quantum strategy, aiming for release in 2026. This initiative seeks to address the current lack of strategic direction and limited funding, which have constrained progress to date. Additionally, the Long-Term Plan for Research and Higher Education (2023–2032) designates quantum technology as a national priority, alongside artificial intelligence and biotechnology. This marks a significant step toward recognizing quantum as a strategic research area.

Industrial potential and the path forward

Quantum sensing is one of Norway's most promising areas, with potential applications aligned with national strengths in the defense and maritime sectors. Kongsberg Gruppen, a leading Norwegian industrial player, is well-positioned to explore quantum sensing technologies for use in high-precision navigation, underwater detection, and secure communications. While these developments indicate strong future potential, most activity remains at the research and prototyping stage, and commercial applications are still limited. Nevertheless, the sector is viewed as a strategic opportunity for industrial innovation and differentiation.

Looking ahead, Norway is laying the groundwork for long-term success in quantum technologies. The forthcoming national quantum strategy is expected to offer clear direction and coordinated support for the ecosystem. However, a strategy alone will not be enough to position Norway among the global leaders. To secure its place in the quantum future, the country will also need to significantly increase investment, cultivate domestic talent, and deepen international partnerships.

Iceland

Iceland’s quantum technology ecosystem is still in its early stages, but there is growing interest, particularly through high-performance computing (HPC) and international collaboration. The Icelandic High-Performance Computing (IHPC) Center, which also serves as the National Competence Center for HPC and AI, has begun exploring quantum computing in the context of advanced simulation and research infrastructure. Although Iceland does not yet have a dedicated national quantum strategy, large-scale funding, or major quantum initiatives, it is actively involved in regional and European collaborations that support long-term quantum development.

The University of Iceland is central to the country’s emerging quantum activities. Notably, it maintains strong research ties with Forschungszentrum Jülich in Germany, one of Europe's leading quantum computing and simulation institutions. These partnerships provide Icelandic researchers access to cutting-edge expertise and infrastructure, helping build capacity despite Iceland’s limited experimental facilities.

Iceland also participates in the Nordic Quantum network, the Nordic academic community for quantum science and technology (QST). While the national quantum workforce and commercial activity remain very limited, early educational initiatives and international collaboration suggest that Iceland is laying the groundwork for a more active role in the quantum future.

Estonia

Estonia’s quantum technology ecosystem is in the early stages of development but shows increasing commercial potential. While the national community remains small and there is no dedicated quantum strategy in place, Estonia benefits from an agile tech environment and strong capabilities in software engineering, an area of growing relevance for quantum algorithms and application development. The country’s global reputation in digital innovation and secure e-government services positions it well to explore quantum-secure infrastructure and post-quantum cryptography solutions.

Emerging commercial activity in sensing and cybersecurity

Commercial interest is most visible in areas adjacent to quantum sensing and secure communications. Startups such as GScan are advancing classical detector technologies that align with future quantum sensing capabilities. Several Estonian electronics manufacturers are designing low-noise components compatible with quantum devices, and some firms are beginning to explore how quantum sensors could be integrated into advanced industrial and defense applications. There is also early activity in post-quantum cryptography, with Estonian companies investigating data protection solutions for the quantum era.

Estonia participates actively in several international quantum initiatives, gaining important commercial exposure and building partnerships. Estonia is part of the EuroQCI initiative and is currently developing a national quantum communication infrastructure (EstQCI) led by the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Metrosert. The platform Kvant, operated by Metrosert, serves as a national coordination point, connecting stakeholders across research, government, and industry and promoting awareness and collaboration in the quantum domain.

Software-led quantum potential

Estonia is also a partner in NordIQuEst, a Nordic-Estonian infrastructure project integrating high-performance computing and quantum technologies. Combined with existing collaborations with more mature ecosystems, such as Finland’s and Estonia’s strong software-driven innovation culture, these developments suggest that with the right policy signals and investment, Estonia could carve out a competitive role in the emerging quantum economy, particularly in software, cryptography, and sensing-related technologies.

Latvia

Latvia’s quantum technology ecosystem is gaining traction through a combination of public investment, strong academic foundations, and increasing industry engagement. While the commercial landscape is still emerging, Latvia is aiming to position itself as a proactive regional player, particularly in quantum computing, quantum communication, and photonic technologies. A central coordinating effort, the Latvian Quantum Initiative (2023–2026), is helping to unify research institutions, industry, and policymakers to foster innovation and support commercialization.

Quantum technology development in Latvia

Latvian companies are exploring practical applications in quantum computing in collaboration with research institutions. Accenture Baltics has piloted the use of quantum algorithms for medical image analysis and continues to investigate their utility in other sectors. Tilde, a leading language technology company, is contributing to EU-funded projects exploring the use of quantum algorithms in computational linguistics as an industry partner for data preparation and performance evaluation. These activities indicate a growing interest in quantum algorithms and applications among Latvian firms.

Quantum communication is another area of strategic focus. Telecom operators LMT and Tet, working with Mikrotik and research institutions like IMCS UL, are developing next-generation quantum-encrypted networks. Notably, Latvia is deploying an experimental national Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) network, co-funded by the EU with a total budget of €8.06 million. Latvia State Radio and Television Centre leads the infrastructure and will support secure data transmission in healthcare, finance, and defense sectors. Use cases include 5G and satellite-based encryption.

Towards a quantum testbed for applied innovation

Substantial policy and funding instruments, including €17 million from the EU Recovery and Resilience Facility, dedicated to quantum technology development, support Latvia's efforts. Latvia’s participation in the EuroQCI initiative further reinforces the ecosystem, positioning the country as an important contributor to Europe’s future quantum communication infrastructure. Combined with active industrial pilots and public-private collaboration, these initiatives aim to transform Latvia into a testbed for applied quantum technologies, with long-term ambitions in quantum device development, secure communication, and small-scale component manufacturing.

Lithuania

Lithuania’s quantum technology ecosystem is grounded in a strong academic tradition, particularly in photonics, quantum optics, and theoretical physics. Institutions nationwide have significantly contributed to quantum science, supported by decades of foundational research. However, the commercial side of quantum technologies is still emerging, with limited industry engagement and early-stage startup activity. Recent national and European initiatives are now laying the groundwork for a more robust innovation and commercialization landscape.

Quantum technology development in Lithuania

Lithuania’s internationally recognized laser and photonics industry forms a critical foundation for many quantum applications. The country produces key components — such as laser systems, semiconductor devices, and advanced materials including graphene, diamond, and hexagonal boron nitride — essential for quantum hardware. These enabling technologies support both domestic research and international collaborations across quantum computing, sensing, and communication.

Quantum sensing is one of Lithuania's most advanced and commercially active quantum domains. Research focuses on compact, high-sensitivity sensors, including techniques such as electron spin resonance, diamond-based sensing, and quantum imaging for detecting weak signals in noisy environments. Work on atomic spin squeezing and entanglement further positions Lithuania at the forefront of sensor innovation, with commercial products already reaching the market through various technology platforms.

Lithuania views quantum communication as a strategic focus area, partly driven by geopolitical considerations. Research includes the development of defect-based single-photon sources, quantum cryptography, and quantum key distribution (QKD) for secure telecommunications. Both theoretical and experimental work is underway, with a long-term goal of establishing secure quantum communication infrastructure for terrestrial and free-space environments.

Emerging quantum business ecosystem in Lithuania

A key milestone in national coordination was the establishment of the Lithuanian Quantum Technologies Association (LQTA) in late 2023. This organization is a central hub connecting stakeholders from academia, industry, and government to promote quantum technology research, education, and commercialization. Although the commercial ecosystem is still taking shape, Lithuania’s participation in European initiatives, such as the 2024 signing of the European Declaration on Quantum Technologies, demonstrates a growing ambition to position the country as an emerging contributor in quantum computing, sensing, and communication.

Summary of Nordic-Baltic quantum business activities

Before turning to the cross-country analysis, the following summary highlights the distinct strengths and emerging focus areas of each Nordic and Baltic country, providing a concise snapshot of how individual nations are contributing to the region’s evolving quantum technology landscape.

Denmark combines strong research leadership in quantum optics and electronics with rapidly growing commercial activity, anchored by major national investments—most notably from the Novo Nordisk Foundation, which drives long-term ecosystem development through its quantum computing programme and broader funding for infrastructure, talent, and interdisciplinary applications.
Finland is a European frontrunner in superconducting quantum computing, anchored by IQM and Bluefors and supported by a vertically integrated ecosystem with world-class research and infrastructure.
Sweden excels in quantum sensing and superconducting computing through the WACQT program and is fostering a dynamic ecosystem of deep-tech startups and strong academic collaboration.
Norway is building momentum in quantum sensing and quantum software, with national strategy development underway and established industrial actors, such as Kongsberg, engaging in quantum exploration.
Iceland contributes to the Nordic-Baltic quantum landscape through international academic collaborations and foundational research in quantum physics.
Estonia is strengthening its role in quantum communication and post-quantum cryptography, supported by solid software expertise and active participation in initiatives like EuroQCI and NordIQuEst.
Latvia is developing academic excellence in quantum photonics and optics, laying the groundwork for future commercialisation and regional collaboration.
Lithuania leverages its strong photonics and laser industries to develop quantum communication and sensing technologies, supported by active research groups and growing strategic interest.

References