The U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) has selected Connecticut as one of twelve regions to receive a NSF Regional innovation Engines (NSF Engines) award. This prestigious recognition highlights Connecticut’s potential to accelerate the development of critical technologies and strengthen the nation’s technological advantage.
The NSF Quantum Technologies Engine in Connecticut known as QuantumCT will initially receive a two-year, $15 million award. This public-private quantum research initiative is led by the University of Connecticut (UConn) in collaboration with Yale UniversitySouthern Connecticut State University (SCSU)ConnCORPCT Innovations and the State of Connecticut.
QuantumCT’s Vision and Goals
QuantumCT aims to leverage world-leading research and innovation expertise from UConn and Yale to pursue translational research that benefits industry, generates technology ventures, and trains the region’s workforce. The initiative will focus on advancing quantum sensingsecured communicationscomputing and materials through a shared testbed, deep-tech incubator, and translation pathways.
The funds will support technology translation, workforce development, and incubator operations. Additionally, they will facilitate industry and community engagement to deliver broad societal benefits, including economic opportunities, workforce training, and innovative technology that advances the nation’s competitiveness, security, and economic growth.
Collaborative Efforts and Industry Partnerships
QuantumCT’s success is rooted in the collaborative efforts of its partners. Yale University President Maurie McInnis expressed pride in the initiative, emphasizing the spirit of collaboration that drives innovation and economic growth. The award recognizes QuantumCT’s years of innovative collaboration between institutes of higher education, industry, government, and community partners.
Industry partners such as Quantinuum and D-Wave are collaborating with QuantumCT to develop quantum computing testbeds. Additionally, companies like RTXTravelersBoehringer IngelheimPfizerAmphenol and Microsoft have been working with the QuantumCT team on applied research projects that bring quantum capabilities directly to their product lines.
Workforce Development and Education
Southern Connecticut State University (SCSU) plays a critical role as QuantumCT’s workforce lead. The CSCU Center for Quantum and Nanotechnology (QNT) at SCSU serves as the optimal coordinator for educational initiatives and strong alliances with industry, community stakeholders, and institutes of higher education throughout Connecticut.
Through longstanding technical and education collaborations with Yale, UConn, and the Connecticut State Community College System, the QNT is a conduit to all academic institutions in the state and to small and medium businesses, including those in advanced manufacturing, biotech, photonics, and other supply chain sectors.
The Future of Quantum Technologies in Connecticut
The NSF Engines program invests in regional ecosystems with the potential to drive economic growth through technological innovation. QuantumCT’s proposal was chosen for funding from a field of 15 finalists following a highly competitive national selection process.
The State of Connecticut has pledged $121 million to QuantumCT, comprising $60 million already invested and an additional $60 million upon receiving the NSF award. This state support will build the quantum incubator in New Haven, among other initiatives.
Governor Ned Lamont highlighted the competitive nature of the award application process and the significant win for Connecticut. The state’s pioneering research and advanced application pipeline set it apart from the competition, positioning Connecticut as a national and global leader in quantum technology.
With this transformative award, NSF has recognized the scale of QuantumCT’s ambition and its potential to accelerate the quantum revolution for the state, region, and the United States as a whole.
