UKRI backs quantum breakthroughs supported by training
Businesses across the UK will share £50 million in funding to develop practical quantum technologies and specialist skills. The projects aim to improve transport, healthcare, communications, critical infrastructure and national security.
The support forms part of a wider government package designed to accelerate the commercial use of quantum science. It is being delivered through UK Research and Innovation’s Quantum Technologies Priority Programme under its Industrial Strategy programme.
Turning quantum science into practical systems
The funding will help companies build next-generation systems capable of outperforming existing technologies in important areas. Quantum technologies use the behaviour of particles such as atoms and photons to perform tasks that can be difficult or impossible with conventional systems.
These technologies include highly sensitive quantum sensors that can make exceptionally precise measurements. Potential applications range from medical diagnostics and transport maintenance to emergency response, infrastructure protection and defence.
Rail monitoring, eye scanning and secure communications
Among the successful projects is a quantum monitoring system led by West Midlands-based MoniRail. The technology is intended to identify the precise location of faults in railway tracks and signalling equipment, including in places where GPS coverage is unavailable.
Earlier and more accurate fault detection could help maintenance teams respond before problems cause significant disruption, reducing unexpected delays for rail passengers.
Bristol-based Siloton is developing a handheld quantum eye scanner designed to make advanced diagnostics available beyond specialist hospitals. Smaller and more accessible equipment could enable more patients to receive eye examinations closer to home while helping to reduce pressure on clinical services.
ColdQuanta UK, based in Oxfordshire, is receiving support to develop a compact and mobile quantum radio system capable of locating signals with high accuracy. The system could assist military operations, improve the resilience of critical infrastructure such as airports and help emergency teams locate distress signals.
Building the UK’s quantum supply chain
The investment supports the government’s ambition to make the UK a world leader in quantum sensing by 2030. It also forms part of broader efforts to transform scientific advances into a sustainable domestic industry.
UKRI is investing a further £20 million in UK businesses to strengthen national capabilities in quantum networking. This emerging technology could enable highly secure communications and support future networks connecting quantum devices.
Through the Enabling Commercial Quantum Networking competition, companies including Sheffield-based Aegiq will develop specialist components such as lasers and photonic chips. Producing more of these components domestically is expected to strengthen supply chains, reduce reliance on overseas suppliers and support the growth of the UK quantum sector.
Expanding routes into quantum careers
An £8 million expansion of UKRI’s QuEST Apprentices Programme will create additional pathways into skilled quantum jobs. The initiative will help employers train engineering technicians and specialist quantum technicians to build, maintain and commercialise new systems.
The expansion includes QuEST North, which will extend support previously offered to businesses at Harwell in Oxfordshire to companies in the North West. By 2030, the programme aims to give 150 engineering apprentices the specialist knowledge needed to support businesses working at the forefront of quantum technology.
Supporting growth and national security
The government expects the combined focus on innovation, supply chains and training to help quantum companies move promising ideas towards commercial products. The technologies could contribute to economic growth and skilled employment while delivering improvements to public services and national resilience.
Quantum navigation, sensing and communication systems may also provide reliable capabilities when conventional technologies cannot be used or trusted. This could help military personnel, emergency responders and operators of essential infrastructure remain connected and make accurate decisions in challenging environments.
By investing in both breakthrough technologies and the workforce needed to support them, UKRI aims to establish the foundations for a competitive UK quantum industry capable of delivering long-term economic and societal benefits.
