We regret to inform you that Innovate UK’s upcoming Quantum Networks Mission – Cultivation Event scheduled for Thursday 18 June 2026, has been cancelled.

This decision has been taken as a result of the postponement of the related funding opportunity, with the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) providing the following rationale:

We understand that testbeds are a key aspect for accelerating the development and adoption of the commercial-scale quantum networking. Based on feedback from the ecosystem on our previously trailed upcoming £17m testbeds funding call, we have made the decision to delay this call until later this year. This will allow us to gather more industry input to ensure that the call maximises industrial impact and to provide a clearer vision for how we see these testbeds supporting the wider networking programme.
We recognise the need to deliver funding to businesses at pace to maintain the UK’s momentum in this critical area and this change in timelines does not change our commitment to invest over £120m into quantum networking by 2030. We will announce plans for market engagement and revised timelines shortly.

We understand that this may be a source of disappointment, and we sincerely apologise for any inconvenience this delay may cause. If you have already expressed interest in this event, we will prioritise reaching out to you as soon as the next relevant quantum opportunity is published.

If you have any queries as to this event cancellation and funding call postponement, please email Callum Stirling, Innovation Lead – Quantum Technologies at Innovate UK.