IonQ and CMC Microsystems are expanding quantum computing access in Canada through a new collaboration. The partnership brings IonQ’s commercial trapped-ion quantum computing systems to Canada’s FABrIC Quantum Computing Sandbox.
The companies formalized the collaboration through a newly signed memorandum of understanding. Under the agreement, IonQ becomes a listed cloud quantum computing access provider for the QCS.
The Quantum Computing Sandbox operates through FABrIC. The initiative receives funding from the Government of Canada’s Strategic Response Fund. CMC Microsystems manages the program and supports its delivery across Canada.
Furthermore, the initiative targets Canada’s growing semiconductor and quantum technology sectors. It provides engineering support and cloud quantum computing access to Canadian researchers and small-to-medium sized enterprises.
The collaboration aims to make advanced quantum computing resources more accessible. As a result, researchers and businesses can explore quantum technologies without relying solely on physical computing infrastructure.
The agreement also supports broader research and development opportunities across Canada. In addition, organizations can gain practical experience with commercial quantum computing systems.
“Innovation moves faster when researchers and businesses can work with frontier quantum computing systems,” said Lisa Lambert, Vice President, Global Strategy & Managing Director, Canada at IonQ. “The FABrIC Quantum Computing Sandbox expands access to IonQ’s commercial technology so more Canadian researchers and businesses can start building quantum expertise and real capability now.”
The partnership also strengthens the connection between quantum research and commercial applications. Therefore, Canadian innovators can use cloud-based quantum resources to test ideas and develop new capabilities.
FABrIC Strengthens Quantum Research and Enterprise Access
FABrIC was established to support Canada’s semiconductor and quantum technology ecosystem. The program combines technical expertise with access to advanced computing resources. Through the Quantum Computing Sandbox, eligible users can access cloud-based quantum computing capabilities. This model can help organizations evaluate quantum applications while developing relevant technical skills.
Moreover, the initiative supports both academic researchers and smaller businesses. These groups can use quantum computing resources to investigate emerging applications and research opportunities.
“This is FABrIC’s mandate in action: pairing a leading commercial quantum computing platform with the expertise to use it, so Canadian innovators can move from access to application,” said Gordon Harling, CEO of CMC Microsystems. “That’s the outcome FABrIC was built to deliver.”
The collaboration also reflects the growing focus on quantum computing infrastructure. Across the industry, cloud access is becoming an important pathway for organizations exploring quantum technologies.
For Canadian businesses, broader quantum computing access in Canada can support experimentation and technology development. Meanwhile, researchers can gain direct experience with commercial quantum systems. IonQ’s trapped-ion technology adds another commercial platform to the Canadian quantum ecosystem. Consequently, users of the FABrIC Quantum Computing Sandbox can explore quantum computing through a commercially available system.
The initiative may also help reduce barriers for organizations entering the quantum technology field. Cloud access allows users to work with quantum systems without building dedicated hardware infrastructure. Overall, the MOU creates a framework for wider access to quantum computing resources in Canada. It positions IonQ as a listed provider within the FABrIC Quantum Computing Sandbox.
The collaboration also supports the development of quantum expertise across Canadian organizations. As adoption grows, such access could help connect research activity with practical enterprise applications. By expanding quantum computing access in Canada, IonQ and CMC Microsystems aim to support the country’s next phase of quantum innovation. The partnership brings commercial quantum computing capabilities closer to researchers and businesses across the Canadian ecosystem.
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News Source: Businesswire.com
