The IBM-Euskadi Quantum Computational Center was announced in 2023 to foster the use of advanced technologies throughout the Basque Government and the Diputaciones (provincial governments) of its three territories: Alava, Bizkaia, and Gipuzkoa. Its mission is to raise the level of research institutions by expanding international scientific collaborations, conducting world-class fundamental research, and strengthening quantum talent in the region. (Autor: Aiora Madariaga Bilbao)
The center will provide the computational infrastructure necessary for Basque Government researchers and their partners to achieve these goals. In addition, IBM and the Basque Government are collaborating in the development of training programs to train world-class talent in quantum computing, both in the Basque Country and in Spain. These programs seek to raise awareness, educate, and develop skills through immersive and integrated learning experiences.
Recently, the Basque Government and IBM (NYSE: IBM) announced their plan to install the end of 2025 the first ‘IBM Quantum System Two’ in Europe in this center, located on the main campus of the Ikerbasque Foundation in Donostia – San Sebastian (Gipuzkoa). This project is part of the BasQ initiative, launched in 2023, intending to consolidate the Basque Country as a technological hub of reference.
This facility will provide academic researchers, research laboratories, and industries in Spain with access to cutting-edge technological capabilities. Members of the IBM-Euskadi Quantum Computational Center will use this system to strengthen the training of quantum talent, foster economic growth, and design new algorithms with practical applications aligned with the Basque Government’s IKUR 2030 strategy for the development of quantum technologies. Its applications include the modeling of new materials and research into the role of quantum computing in sustainability initiatives.
‘With this scientific infrastructure, the Basque Country will position itself as a global benchmark in quantum computing. This technology will be key to tackling digital transformation and providing us with a cutting-edge scientific infrastructure that will strengthen our science, technology, and innovation ecosystem. IBM Quantum System Two will be an essential tool for the Basque Science, Technology, and Innovation Network, enabling the generation of cutting-edge knowledge, the development of highly specialized higher education programs, and the preparation of the Basque public and industrial sector for the impact of quantum computing in the coming years. The arrival of this system will be a great opportunity for the economic and social development of the Basque Country, as well as opening the door to cooperation with other regions, countries, and actors in the evolution of this technology,’ declared the Lehendakari (President of the Basque Government), Imanol Pradales.
‘These tools will enable the development of algorithms that will drive the quantum ecosystem and bring us closer to achieving a quantum advantage in the next two years,’ said Jay Gambetta, vice president of IBM Quantum.
