French quantum startups compete globally

French quantum computing startups Pasqal, C12, and Quandela are competing to lead the global race in developing universal, fault-tolerant quantum computers. Each company uses a different technology—neutral atoms, carbon nanotubes, and photonic qubits—to push the field forward.

France's quantum strategy and funding

France has invested 1.8 billion euros in quantum technology over the past five years, with 1.5 billion euros coming from public funds. The French Court of Audit reports that this investment has strengthened the country's scientific position and helped build a growing industrial ecosystem.

French startups' global market share

According to government reports, French quantum startups and small to medium-sized enterprises hold 20% of the global market share. These firms are part of the PROQCIMA program, backed by the Ministry of Defense, which aims to create two quantum computers with 1,000 logical qubits by 2032.

Need for capital and partnerships

Fanny Bouton, Quantum Lead at OVHcloud and co-founder of France Quantum, says the sector is at a critical point. She estimates that French startups have a "two-year window of opportunity" to secure 300 million euros in funding to stay competitive with global leaders like China and the United States.

Pasqal's success and roadmap

Pasqal, co-founded by Nobel Prize-winning physicist Alain Aspect, has gone public on Nasdaq with a valuation of about two billion dollars. It operates seven quantum computers worldwide and aims to achieve 100 logical qubits with a very low error rate by 2029.

C12's nanotube-based qubits

C12, co-founded by twin brothers Pierre and Mathieu Desjardins, uses spin qubits on carbon nanotubes. The company's roadmap includes four generations of processors, each named after a Greek deity, with the goal of reaching over 100,000 physical qubits by 2033.

Quandela's photonic approach

Quandela focuses on photonic quantum computing, using photons as qubits. Unlike traditional superconducting chips, photonic qubits can operate at room temperature. The company has raised 65 million euros and recently introduced a hybrid platform that combines quantum and graphics processors.

Industry collaborations and applications

French quantum startups are working with various industries. C12 collaborates with Air Liquide, Thales, and Dassault Aviation on chemical simulations, radar, and aerospace modeling. Quandela works with Orange and Safran Tech on cybersecurity and aviation, while Pasqal partners with EDF, Crédit Agricole, CMA CGM, and BMW on materials science, finance, and energy.

Diverse paths to quantum advantage

Each company is pursuing a different approach to achieve quantum advantage, with varying technologies and goals. France's quantum ecosystem is seen as unique, with multiple technological paths coexisting and potentially converging around industrializable solutions.