The system provides companies and institutions with a secure research platform to build up and expand their expertise and test quantum-based computing strategies with a view to applications. Together with IBM, the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaftoperates the quantum computer in Ehningen near Stuttgart. All processed project and user data remains in Germany at all times and is subject to German data protection regulations.
"There is great interest in the application of quantum computing as a future key technology for securing competitiveness and technological sovereignty, both in research and in industry. With our platform, we offer large corporations, SMEs, start-ups and research institutions the opportunity to build up expertise and test new applications and business models," says Prof. Reimund Neugebauer, President of the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft. He is certain: "The pioneering initiative of the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft and IBM for applied quantum computing in Germany and Europe opens up new opportunities in the development of quantum computing strategies and application technologies for sustainable value creation."

"I am extremely pleased that the IBM Quantum System One, the most powerful quantum computer in Europe, is now being used in Germany," says Dario Gil, Senior Vice President and Director IBM Research. "The system is designed for stability, robustness and reliability and can run programs at incredible speed thanks to its hybrid cloud architecture. I am sure that the collaboration between Fraunhofer and IBM will lead to further research projects throughout Europe - with the aim of finding solutions to important economic and social problems."

The state of Baden-Württemberg is supporting the initiative of Fraunhofer and IBM significantly and is providing a total of up to 40 million euros until 2024 - the majority of this for joint projects of the Fraunhofer Competence Center Quantum Computing in Baden-Württemberg in cooperation with universities, non-university research institutions and associated industrial partners.

The central point of contact for using the quantum computer is the Fraunhofer Competence Network Quantum Computing. Access to the computer requires a user contract with Fraunhofer; the price model is based on a monthly ticket. This also allows short-term, flexible access for testing and evaluating the technology.