When Georges Boutet bought his first laser as a teenager growing up in France, he probably never imagined that one day, similar beams of light would help power computers of the future. Decades later, the company he helped found—Pasqal—is now leading a massive effort to build those futuristic machines right here in Europe.
This week, Pasqal launched Q-PLANET, a six-year project backed by 50 million euros ($54 million) to create a European supply chain for a type of quantum computing technology called neutral atom chips. Think of these chips like tiny atomic factories that use lasers to trap and control individual atoms, which can then perform calculations in ways regular computers never could.
The initiative brings together 28 partners across 11 European Union countries—including universities, research labs, and tech companies—all working toward the same goal: making quantum computers that can be built and sold in Europe, not just imported from abroad.
"Q-PLANET is a decisive step toward the EU's 2030 quantum ambitions," said Alexandra Paul, who coordinates the project. "By pooling scientific and industrial expertise across Europe, we are building a pan-European quantum-chip manufacturing backbone based on neutral atom technologies, from products to applications."
Quantum computers promise to solve certain problems far faster than today's machines—things like discovering new medicines, designing better batteries, or cracking complex codes. But right now, most quantum computers are fragile, expensive, and nearly impossible to manufacture at scale. That's exactly what Q-PLANET aims to fix.
The project will spend its first three years developing industrial-grade components: specific laser wavelengths, atom-sized chips, and microscopic vapor cells. Partners will test and refine these parts in three separate cycles, gradually moving from experimental lab equipment to reliable factory production.
One key goal is helping smaller companies join the quantum race. Q-PLANET plans to create standardized toolkits—called PDKs and ADKs—that will make it easier for startups and small businesses to design and build quantum chips without starting from scratch. This could democratize access to quantum technology across the continent.
Jari Kinaret, who leads the European Chips Joint Undertaking (the organization funding the project), pointed to the bigger picture: "This diverse project portfolio strengthens Europe's technological sovereignty in quantum technology and builds the foundations of a new industry."
The initiative also notes a growing focus on sustainability, recognizing that environmentally friendly manufacturing will matter more as quantum technology scales up and enters everyday use. By aiming to achieve industrialization at scale by 2030, Q-PLANET isn't just building chips—it's building a foundation for an industry Europe hopes to lead for decades to come.