The National Quantum Computing Centre (NQCC) invites proposals for a proof of concept call, funded through the SparQ Programme. This call seeks business-led projects focusing on practical applications and use cases relevant to the public, private, and charitable sectors. It aims to identify and develop early practical applications and use cases for quantum computing and analyse these applications to understand the software and hardware requirements.
While applications from all sectors are welcome, use cases from energy, healthcare and transport/logistics are particularly encouraged. Collaboration with organisations associated with the STFC Innovation Clusters at Harwell Campus and Sci-Tech Daresbury is also encouraged.
Projects are expected to last up to 3 months. Access to applications development support and quantum computing resources are available and must be discussed with NQCC ahead of applying.
To learn more about the projects funded last year and the use cases explored, please refer to the NQCC Quantum Computing Use Case Compendium. (https://www.nqcc.ac.uk/updates/nqcc-unveils-the-quantum-computing-use-case-compendium/)
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The projects must be led by a UK registered business. Higher Education Institutions, Research Council Institutes, Charity, Research Organisation, Public Sector Research Establishment, Non-profit Research and Technology Organisation (RTOs), including Catapult, can participate in this call as project partners.
The project may include Observers within the consortium, provided there is consent from the project team. These observers must meet the same eligibility criteria as the project partners, but would not receive grant funding as part of this call. Government departments may also participate as observers if relevant and appropriate.
For more detail regarding the eligibility requirements, please request the Call Guidance document at CrossClusterPOC@stfc.ac.uk.
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The proof of concept project should be directed towards early practical use cases and applications that are relevant to the public, private and charitable sectors. Please note dual-use cases will also be considered.
Projects should focus on:
- Analysing the hardware and software requirements for specific use cases.
- Verifying the capabilities and limitations of current quantum computers.
- Developing models and trialling solutions with quantum algorithms on real or emulated quantum processors.
- Benchmarking quantum applications on quantum hardware and emulators.
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To provide more information about this funding opportunity, NQCC held a webinar on 14th August 2025 at 11:00, covering the objectives, scope and application process in detail. The webinar recording is available upon request. Please email CrossClusterPOC@stfc.ac.uk for details.
For all queries regarding this call and to request a copy of the complete Call Guidance, please contact CrossClusterPOC@stfc.ac.uk.
You are encouraged to discuss your proposed project, including specific requirements related to application engineering support and quantum computing resources, with NQCC ahead of submitting a formal application to this call. Please refer to the call guidance documentation for the right contact.
You can also discuss your project with a Cluster Development Manager, where relevant.