Nordic initiative on Quantum Science and Technology

Quantum technologies are moving from frontier science toward early deployment and strategic application. The Nordic region already holds strong but distributed assets: excellent research environments, advanced infrastructure, trusted institutions and internationally connected innovation ecosystems. The strategic task is therefore not only to strengthen research excellence, but to connect the full chain from knowledge generation to use-case development, industrial uptake and societal value. A common Nordic approach can reduce fragmentation, create critical mass and ensure that promising ideas do not fall between research-oriented and innovation-oriented funding regimes.

Recognising that quantum technologies hold significant promise for scientific breakthroughs and innovations that could address societal challenges and deliver substantial benefits across a wide range of sectors, the Nordic prime ministers and heads on governments made a joint statement in 2025 on the ambitions for strengthened Nordic cooperation to drive progress in this field.

In October 2025, NordForsk published a report on the current status of Nordic Quantum Technology Research Co-operation. The report assesses Nordic quantum collaboration across research, infrastructure, and innovation, outlining joint steps for funders and performers. The assessment identifies several areas where coordinated efforts can accelerate progress and strengthen the Nordics’ international position in quantum technologies.

With this background, NordForsk took the initiative to establish a Nordic working group on quantum science and technology. The group brings together representatives from NordForsk, Nordic Innovation, Nordic Energy Research, national research funding agencies, national innovation funding agencies, as well as a representative from the Nordic Council of Ministers secretariat. The group is mandated to propose concrete Nordic activities in quantum research and innovation, including joint calls for proposals.

In July 2026, NordForsk joined an international collaboration on a G7-Nordic call for proposals for research projects on quantum technologies and announced funding for Nordic participation in 12 international projects.