Quantum.Tech USA 2025

April 14 - Cryptography Spotlight Day | April 15-16 - Main Conference

Conrad Hotel, Washington D.C.

Main Conference Day Two

Main Conference Day Two

8:00 am - 8:40 am NETWORKING AND COFFEE IN THE EXHIBITION AREA

8:40 am - 8:50 am Morning Chair’s Opening Remarks

8:50 am - 9:10 am How quantum is driving innovation at NASA

9:10 am - 9:50 am Global Perspectives on Quantum Technologies—Insights from International Ambassadors and Chief Scientists in Washington, D.C.

As quantum technologies rapidly evolve, their potential to transform industries and national security has drawn the attention of global leaders. This panel will bring together International Ambassadors and Chief Scientists to discuss and debate the implications, opportunities, and challenges of quantum technologies on a global scale 

Key discussion points include: 

 

  • What are the key national interests driving countries’ investments in quantum technologies? 
  • Exploring how different nations view quantum technology in the context of economic growth, national security, and technological leadership. 
  • How can international collaboration accelerate advancements in quantum research and development? 
  • Discussing successful partnerships and initiatives that highlight the importance of cross-border collaboration in addressing global challenges. 
  • What ethical considerations and regulatory frameworks are emerging around quantum technologies? 
  • Examining the need for international standards and guidelines to ensure responsible development and deployment of quantum applications. 
  • What are the potential risks associated with the proliferation of quantum technologies? 
  • Analyzing concerns related to cybersecurity, economic disparities, and geopolitical tensions as nations race to advance their quantum capabilities. 
  • How do chief scientists envision the future impact of quantum technologies on global industries? 
  • Sharing insights on the transformative potential of quantum computing, sensing, and communication across sectors like healthcare, finance, and defense. 
  • What strategies should governments and organizations adopt to prepare for the quantum revolution? 
  • Discussing actionable recommendations for policymakers, researchers, and industry leaders to harness the benefits of quantum technologies while mitigating risks. 

 

This panel will kick off the day and feature esteemed international ambassadors and leading scientists, providing a platform for rich dialogue on the global landscape of quantum technologies. Join us for a thought-provoking discussion on the future of quantum innovation and collaboration in the international arena. 

9:50 am - 10:35 am The Controversial Road to the Post-NISQ Era—Are Hardware and Software Companies Truly Prepared for Quantum's Next Phase?

As we transition towards a post-NISQ (Noisy Intermediate-Scale Quantum) era, the role of hardware and software technology companies becomes increasingly critical—but are they genuinely ready to meet the demands of quantum computing? This panel invites industry leaders to engage in a heated discussion about the state of the quantum supply chain, the challenges of scaling qubits, and the innovations in software platforms. 

 

Key points for debate include: 

 

  1. Are We Really Overcoming the Challenges of Error Correction? 

Despite significant progress, error correction remains a monumental barrier. Are we just spinning our wheels with theoretical solutions, or is there real progress to report? 

  1. Is Quantum Computing Becoming Cost-Effective? 

As companies race to harness quantum potential, the question arises: Are we making quantum technologies accessible, or are we perpetuating an elite tech bubble that few can afford to enter? 

  1. What Truly Sets Us Apart? 

Amidst the hype, what genuine advancements are being made? Are the current solutions truly innovative, or are they simply repackaged versions of existing technologies? 

 

Each C-Suite industry leader will have 10 minutes to present their case, but we’ll encourage a robust dialogue where panelists can challenge each other’s claims and engage the audience in this critical conversation. Is the quantum industry genuinely prepared for the next leap, or are we in for a rude awakening? Join us for a thought-provoking session that promises to be as contentious as it is enlightening. 

10:35 am - 11:20 am NETWORKING REFRESHMENT BREAK IN THE EXHIBITION AREA

11:20 am - 12:00 pm RIGETTI PANEL DISCUSSION

As the quantum landscape evolves, consultants and government contractors play a crucial role in advising and supporting federal institutions to harness the potential of quantum technologies.  

This panel will explore how these entities facilitate strategic planning, implementation, and collaboration within government agencies. 

 

Key discussion points include: 

 

How are consultants guiding federal institutions in developing effective quantum strategies? 

Examine the advisory role of consultants in helping agencies navigate the complexities of quantum technology adoption, including risk management and investment priorities. 

 

What contributions are government contractors making to federal quantum initiatives? 

Discuss the partnerships between federal institutions and contractors, focusing on how these collaborations accelerate research, development, and deployment of quantum technologies. 

 

How do consultants and contractors help federal agencies navigate funding and regulatory challenges? 

Explore strategies for securing funding, ensuring compliance with regulations, and aligning quantum projects with national security and policy objectives. 

 

What best practices are emerging for collaboration between federal institutions, industry, and academia? 

Highlight successful case studies that demonstrate effective partnerships and how they lead to significant advancements in quantum research and implementation. 

 

What does the future hold for consultants and contractors in supporting federal quantum initiatives? 

Analyze potential trends, opportunities, and challenges that may influence the roles of these entities as federal agencies ramp up their quantum efforts. 

 

This panel will feature leading consultants and government contractors who specialize in supporting federal institutions, providing insights into their critical contributions and collaborative efforts that drive the advancement of quantum technologies within government. Join us for a thought-provoking discussion on the essential role these players have in shaping the federal quantum landscape. 

12:00 pm - 12:25 pm The role of quantum in driving secure communications and security

12:25 pm - 1:05 pm Quantum in the boardroom. How the C-Suite at Fortune 500 enterprises are looking at quantum. Is there any ROI there yet?

Quantum computing is poised to revolutionize various industries, and Fortune 500 organizations are at the forefront of exploring its transformative potential. This panel will delve into how quantum technologies are reshaping business operations, driving innovation, and creating competitive advantages for these leading companies. 

 

Key discussion points include: 

 

How are Fortune 500 organizations currently leveraging quantum computing? 

Explore specific use cases and applications where quantum technologies are being integrated into business processes, from supply chain optimization to advanced data analytics. 

 

What are the competitive advantages gained through early adoption of quantum technologies? 

Discuss how organizations that embrace quantum computing are positioning themselves ahead of competitors and reimagining their approach to problem-solving. 

 

What challenges are Fortune 500 companies facing in implementing quantum solutions? 

Identify the barriers to adoption, including talent shortages, infrastructure requirements, and integration with existing systems. 

 

How is quantum computing influencing strategic decision-making and innovation within these organizations? 

Examine the role of quantum technologies in enhancing R&D efforts, driving product development, and informing business strategies. 

 

What collaborations and partnerships are Fortune 500 companies pursuing in the quantum space? 

Highlight how industry leaders are working with academia, startups, and technology providers to accelerate quantum research and application. 

 

What is the future outlook for quantum computing in Fortune 500 organizations? 

Discuss emerging trends, anticipated advancements, and the long-term implications of quantum technologies for these companies and their industries. 

 

This panel will feature executives and thought leaders from Fortune 500 organizations, providing valuable insights into the current and future impact of quantum computing on their businesses. Join us for an engaging discussion on how quantum technologies are shaping the landscape for the world's leading companies. 

1:05 pm - 2:05 pm NETWORKING LUNCH & WORKSHOP SESSIONS

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Celia Merzbacher

Executive Director
Quantum Economic Development Consortium, SRI International

2:10 pm - 2:30 pm How quantum computing is being used to optimize manufacturing

2:30 pm - 2:50 pm Quantum Computing at General Motors

2:50 pm - 3:10 pm Taking a quantum leap in the opportunity quantum provides for logistics

3:10 pm - 3:45 pm Assessing the role of quantum chemistry in the next stage of battery production

2:05 pm - 2:10 pm Stream B: Government and Security

2:10 pm - 2:50 pm Perspectives from U.S. Federal Agencies on Quantum Security

As quantum technologies continue to evolve, U.S. federal agencies are grappling with their implications for national security and cybersecurity. This panel will explore the strategies, collaborations, and successes of federal institutions in ensuring the security of quantum technologies. 

 

Key discussion points include: 

 

  • Is quantum computing a genuine threat to national security? 
  • Analyzing the potential risks posed by quantum technologies to critical infrastructure and sensitive data. 

 

  • How are federal agencies collaborating to address quantum security challenges? 
  • Exploring the partnerships and initiatives that promote information sharing and collective defense against quantum-related threats. 

 

  • Where are we seeing the most significant successes in quantum security initiatives? 
  • Highlighting successful projects and strategies that demonstrate effective management of quantum risks. 

 

  • How can national governments leverage quantum technologies for strategic advantage? 
  • Discussing long-term strategies for harnessing quantum advancements to enhance national security and global competitiveness. 

 

This panel will feature insights from key representatives of U.S. federal agencies, providing a comprehensive view of the challenges and opportunities in securing quantum technologies for the nation. Join us for an informative discussion on the federal approach to maintaining quantum security. 

2:50 pm - 3:10 pm Assessing the impact the NQI update will have on US federal quantum security

3:10 pm - 3:30 pm DARPA Case Study; Securing a quantum future

3:30 pm - 3:45 pm NATO’s early stage work with quantum security

2:05 pm - 2:10 pm Stream C: Defence and Aerospace – security and sensing innovations

2:10 pm - 2:30 pm An update on Boeing’s research in quantum sensing

2:30 pm - 3:20 pm Global defence leaders panel: How is aerospace and defence leading the quantum charge?

Quantum technologies are poised to transform the defence and aerospace sectors, offering groundbreaking advancements in sensing, communication, and computing. This panel will explore how these innovations are being integrated into military and aerospace applications, enhancing capabilities and strategic advantages. 

 

Key discussion points include: 

  • How are quantum sensing technologies revolutionizing defense operations? 
  • Examining applications such as enhanced navigation, precise positioning, and advanced threat detection through quantum sensors. 
  • What role does quantum communication play in securing military communications? 
  • Discussing the implications of quantum key distribution (QKD) for protecting sensitive information and ensuring secure communications in defence systems. 
  • How are quantum computing advancements influencing aerospace innovation? 
  • Exploring the potential for quantum computing to optimize logistics, improve material science, and accelerate simulations in aerospace engineering. 
  • What challenges do defence and aerospace sectors face in adopting quantum technologies? 
  • Identifying barriers such as funding, technical expertise, and integration with existing systems. 
  • How can international collaborations enhance the development of quantum technologies in defence and aerospace? 
  • Highlighting partnerships between governments, academia, and industry that promote innovation and share best practices. 
  • What is the future outlook for quantum technologies in enhancing national security and aerospace capabilities? 
  • Discussing emerging trends and potential developments that could reshape the landscape of defence and aerospace. 

 

This panel will feature experts from the defence and aerospace industries, as well as representatives from government and academia, providing valuable insights into the transformative potential of quantum technologies in these critical sectors. Join us for an engaging discussion on the future of defence and aerospace in the quantum era

3:20 pm - 3:45 pm Leidos Case Study

3:45 pm - 4:25 pm NETWORKING REFRESHMENT BREAK IN THE EXHIBITION AREA

4:25 pm - 5:00 pm Debate – will we see quantum computing achieve its goals by the end of the decade

The rapid advancements in quantum computing have ignited a lively debate within the scientific community, industry, and beyond, concerning the feasibility of achieving quantum computing's ambitious goals by the end of the decade. This debate explores the potential of quantum computers to transform industries, tackle complex problems, and surpass classical computing capabilities within the next ten years. 


The Proponents ARGUMENT - Quantum computing is on the cusp of a breakthrough. With significant investments from both governments and industry giants, quantum hardware and algorithms are maturing at an unprecedented rate. They believe that, by the end of the decade, we will witness quantum computers outperform classical counterparts in critical applications, from cryptography to drug discovery. 


THE OPPONENTS view- formidable challenges quantum technologies still face, including error correction, scalability, and cost-effectiveness. I argue that while quantum computers may make substantial progress, achieving their full potential within the decade remains a lofty goal, with many technical hurdles to overcome. 


The debate delves into various facets of quantum computing, such as quantum supremacy, quantum advantage, and the real-world impact on fields like artificial intelligence, materials science, and cryptography. Experts from academia, industry, and research institutions offer their perspectives on the timeline, feasibility, and implications of quantum computing's evolution. 


AUDIENCE VOTE DECIDES  

5:00 pm - 6:00 pm The Quantum.Tech VENTURE CAPITALS DRAGONS DEN

The Quantum.Tech Venture Capital Dragon's Den is an exciting new addition to the program for 2024 that brings together the worlds of quantum technology and venture capital. In this unique showcase, pioneering startups in the quantum tech space will pitch their groundbreaking ideas and innovations to a panel of seasoned venture capitalists, known as the "Dragons." 


The session offers a platform for entrepreneurs and quantum visionaries to present their quantum-enabled technologies, spanning quantum computing, quantum cryptography, quantum sensing, and more. These startups are at the forefront of transforming industries and solving complex challenges using the power of quantum science. 


The Dragons, each with a wealth of experience in venture capital and technology investing, will assess the startups' potential for disruption, market viability, scalability, and overall investment appeal. They will engage in dynamic discussions with the founders, providing valuable feedback, insights, and potentially even offers of investment. 


The Quantum Venture Capital Dragon's Den serves as a bridge between the quantum ecosystem and the investment community, facilitating connections that can accelerate the growth of quantum startups and propel quantum technologies into the mainstream. It represents a unique opportunity for investors to explore the quantum frontier and for entrepreneurs to secure the support needed to turn their quantum dreams into reality. 


QUANTUM START UPS AND SCALE UPS – Sign up NOW to join  

6:00 pm - 6:05 pm CLOSE OF CONFERENCE