Quantum information science, engineering, and technologies (QISET) has entered a new phase, moving from lab-based projects to real-world applications that are reshaping the strategies and finances of both the federal government and the private sector. Experts at the Special Competitive Studies Project (SCSP), a nonprofit and nonpartisan initiative aimed at strengthening America's long-term competitiveness in artificial intelligence, highlight that this evolution is not just a technological shift but a geographic one. The second phase, often called Quantum 2.0, centers on photonics, microelectronics, and specialized materials, building on the foundations laid by Quantum 1.0, which gave rise to lasers and transistors. As the United States seeks to accelerate its quantum capabilities, SCSP has launched a new limited newsletter, "Quantum States," to examine how different states and regions are leading the way. This matters because it underscores a critical implication: the future of quantum innovation will be determined not just by federal investment or corporate giants, but by place-based ecosystems that harness local strengths.
SCSP assessed states across a range of metrics, including cited quantum information science research, patents, the volume of both 'pure play' and quantum-enabling companies, the number of military research facilities, breadth of the full quantum stack (computing, sensing, and networking), and the number of quantum-related job openings. The findings reveal that a robust quantum ecosystem is not a one-size-fits-all endeavor. As SCSP experts note, "Developing a robust ecosystem of quantum technologies is not a one-size-fits-all approach, in which local leadership is guaranteed by hosting the most companies within a region. Rather, it requires a cohesive, strategic effort leveraging strengths within that state." This implies that simply attracting companies is insufficient; states must cultivate synergies between academia, national labs, startups, and private industry to build sustainable quantum hubs.
Currently, California leads in most aspects of Quantum 2.0, including industrial capacity, talent pipelines, and market ecosystems. Other established hubs include New York, Illinois, Colorado, Maryland, and Massachusetts. However, several states are poised to become significant players, such as Texas, North Carolina, and Florida, given their high number of PhDs awarded and the presence of quantum research centers in many of their academic institutions. The implication is clear: the geographic distribution of quantum innovation is broadening, which could lead to a more decentralized and resilient U.S. quantum landscape. This shift matters because it can spur regional economic growth, create high-tech jobs, and enhance national security by diversifying the quantum supply chain.
SCSP experts emphasize that "The most successful quantum states build strong synergies between pillars of a quantum ecosystem: academia, NIST, national labs, startups, and private industry." Ultimately, true quantum hubs emerge where industry, academia, and government actively connect. This interconnectedness is vital for translating research into commercial products and maintaining U.S. competitiveness against global rivals. As Quantum 2.0 unfolds, the states that foster these connections will likely reap the greatest benefits, from economic development to technological leadership. To learn more and for future editions of the Quantum States newsletter, visit https://scsp.ai.
