In a pivotal hearing on May 7, 2025, the U.S. House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology convened to discuss the future of the National Quantum Initiative (NQI). Industry leaders from major technology firms, including Microsoft, Google, and PsiQuantum, testified on the necessity of reauthorizing and enhancing the NQI to maintain U.S. leadership in quantum technology.

Background on the National Quantum Initiative

The National Quantum Initiative Act, enacted in 2018, established a coordinated federal program to accelerate quantum research and development for the economic and national security of the United States. The Act facilitated collaboration among key agencies such as the National Science Foundation (NSF), the Department of Energy (DOE), and the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), leading to the creation of research centers and the Quantum Economic Development Consortium (QED-C). However, the original authorization expired at the end of Fiscal Year 2023, prompting discussions on its renewal and expansion.

Key Testimonies and Recommendations

Dr. Charles Tahan, Partner at Microsoft Quantum and former Director of the National Quantum Coordination Office, emphasized the importance of sustained federal investment. He highlighted three critical areas:

• Advancing Quantum Sciences: Continued support for fundamental research to drive innovation.

• Developing a Skilled Workforce: Implementing educational programs and immigration pathways to attract and retain top talent.

• Building a Resilient Supply Chain: Ensuring the availability of necessary materials and components for quantum technologies.

Dr. Tahan noted that while U.S. funding for quantum sciences had more than doubled from $456 million in 2019 to $1.041 billion in 2022, recent budget requests have seen a decline, with $998 million proposed for FY2025. He warned that this trend could jeopardize U.S. competitiveness, especially as other nations increase their investments.

Dr. Charina Chou, Director of Google Quantum AI, stressed the need for a robust STEM pipeline, stating that quantum advancements have far-reaching implications across various fields, including drug discovery, chemistry, and industrial applications. She advocated for federal programs that support education and workforce development to ensure a steady flow of qualified professionals.

Dr. Pete Shadbolt, Chief Scientific Officer at PsiQuantum, showcased a wafer of quantum chips during his testimony, symbolizing the tangible progress in quantum hardware. He called for increased government support to transition these technologies from research to market-ready solutions.

Legislative Developments

In response to the testimonies, bipartisan efforts are underway to reauthorize the NQI. The proposed Quantum Sandbox for Near-Term Applications Act aims to foster public-private partnerships, enabling the development and deployment of quantum applications within 24 months. This initiative focuses on sectors such as manufacturing, energy, and healthcare, providing testbeds—referred to as "quantum sandboxes"—for innovators to trial quantum technologies in real-world environments.

Conclusion

The hearing underscored the critical role of federal support in sustaining U.S. leadership in quantum technology. Industry leaders and lawmakers alike recognize that reauthorizing and expanding the National Quantum Initiative is essential to drive innovation, develop a skilled workforce, and maintain a competitive edge in the global quantum race.

For a detailed view of the hearing, you can watch the full session below: