On December 15, 2025, the Government of Canada announced the launch of Phase 1 of the Canadian Quantum Champions Program (CQCP) — a $92 million investment to scale Canadian quantum computing companies and anchor sovereign capability in Canada.
Quantum Industry Canada (QIC) CEO Lisa Lambert issued the following statement in response to the announcement:
“Quantum technologies — computing, sensing, and communications — are now understood as strategic infrastructure that will underpin economic competitiveness and national security for decades to come. The Canadian Quantum Champions Program (CQCP) is designed to ensure that Canada translates its early leadership in quantum computing into scalable, sovereign capability with long-term value — anchoring the companies, talent, and intellectual property here. This is not merely about inventing the future, but building it here, in Canada.
Budget 2025 signalled the Government of Canada’s commitment to quantum as a strategic priority under the new Defence Industrial Strategy. Today’s launch of the CQCP is a significant step in translating that commitment into action. With milestone-based funding and independent benchmarking, the program supports multiple technical pathways while applying scientific rigour to manage risk and accelerate industrialization.
Canada has built exceptional capabilities across quantum computing, sensing, communications, and enabling technologies. These capabilities are reaching different stages of readiness, creating diverse opportunities for strategic engagement. Patient capital supports companies approaching industrial application. Targeted procurement validates technologies that are ready to be deployed and scaled. This is the portfolio approach Canada needs.
Canada leads in quantum because we made strategic bets early, investing in research, attracting top talent, and launching companies that compete globally. The CQCP represents a next phase — strategic investment focused on scaling industrial capability. With sustained commitment through investment, procurement, and strategic partnerships with trusted allies, Canada is positioned to translate our quantum leadership into lasting economic resilience and security advantage. The focus now is execution, and Canada’s quantum industry is ready to meet that moment.”
— Lisa Lambert, CEO, Quantum Industry Canada
