Quantum-Testing Infrastructure for Quantum Technologies

Expected Outcome: This action will establish a pan-European open-access testing and experimentation infrastructure for quantum technologies, enabling systematic validation and certification of quantum components and systems. Expected outcomes include: Deployment of distributed quantum testing facilities accessible across Europe, including remote access and standardized test protocols. Provision of certification services aligned with future standardisation efforts, ensuring trust, quality, and interoperability of quantum technologies. Support for SMEs, start-ups, and research institutions in validating quantum components and sub-systems. Strengthening of Europe’s competitiveness by ensuring robust quality assurance mechanisms and accelerating the time-to-market of emerging quantum products. Scope: The proposal should implement the testing-related part of the action plan established under the Framework Partnership Agreement for Qu-Test. The action must include: Expansion and interconnection of open-access testing facilities in multiple Member States, covering a range of quantum technologies (e.g., processors, sensors, photonics, control systems). Development and deployment of interoperable testing methodologies, benchmarking protocols, and certification procedures. Integration of metrological and validation capabilities into existing RTOs and academic infrastructures, focusing on TRL 4–7. Creation of a comprehensive digital platform supporting users in test planning, remote execution, and data reporting. Engagement with industry, especially start-ups and SMEs, to define user-driven requirements and access models. Establishment of feedback loops between testing and design/manufacturing entities to inform improvements and accelerate iterative development. Coordination with relevant European and international standardisation initiatives to prepare the ground for widespread adoption of certified quantum components. Alignment with SRIA 2030 objectives, focusing on ecosystem-wide support for quality, reliability, and reproducibility in quantum technology development. Technology Readiness Level - Technology readiness level expected from completed projects The rules are described in General Annex B of the Horizon Europe Work Programme 2026-2027. Testing activities (no TRL applies) are expected to validate technologies starting at TRL 3/4 and confirm their progression to TRL 5/7 by the end of the project. Topic budget: EUR 20,000,000 · Contribution per grant: EUR 19,000,000 - 20,000,000 · Expected grants: 1