Making Europe a quantum industry powerhouse: a strategic EU roadmap for investment, talent and industrial scale

Executive Summary

Quantum technologies promise to revolutionise Europe’s economy and security. With quantum sensing, communications and computing set to play a foundational role in next-generation digital ecosystems, the potential contribution to the EU economy could reach €850 billion over the next 15-30 years.[1]

Yet, many quantum technologies are still in the early stages, requiring significant and sustained public and private investment to spur innovation, build industrial capacity and bridge the gap to real-world applications. Europe’s efforts are fragmented across different EU programmes, national strategies and focus areas, risking inefficiencies and reduced competitiveness. 

The upcoming EU Quantum Strategy must establish a coherent vision for the EU quantum ecosystem and take a coordinated approach across the supply chain – from basic research to commercial deployment – supporting strategic projects across the full technology stack. To stay ahead, Europe must invest at scale, close the talent gap, fast-track standards and build a truly frictionless Single Market for quantum ventures of all sizes. 

For now, Europe’s quantum ecosystem is driven by start-ups, with dozens of young innovative companies trying to establish themselves in different niches along the value chain and technology stack. To help them scale at home while preserving Europe’s openness, the EU must:

• Avoid regulating the quantum ecosystem until technologies have matured and regulatory gaps can be clearly identified.
• Scale up public and private funding to boost demand for innovative quantum solutions.
• Bridge the quantum skills gap to meet the growing demand for talent.
• Foster industrial capacity to stay globally competitive and bring innovations to market.

[1] See Mario Draghi, The future of European competitiveness – Part B: In-depth analysis and recommendations.