EU Funding Opportunities Across the Quantum Technology Spectrum
Nordic Innovators Can Help You in the Application Process
Quantum technologies are redefining the frontiers of science and innovation. From revolutionising computing and cybersecurity to transforming sensing and simulation, quantum advancements are set to become critical enablers for Europe's digital sovereignty, industrial resilience, and green transition.
Recognising this, the EU is actively supporting the growth of quantum innovation through an array of dedicated funding instruments — from early-stage research to market-ready breakthroughs. Whether you are a deep-tech startup, a research institution, or a fast-scaling SME, our team can guide you from concept to funding success, ensuring your quantum solution finds the right programme and partners.
Where Quantum Innovation Meets EU Funding
Our support spans the entire quantum value chain — from foundational research to scalable market deployment. We understand the challenges and opportunities within this strategic sector, especially for projects focused on:
Quantum Computing: Develop quantum processors, algorithms, and hybrid architectures that solve real-world problems beyond classical capabilities. Applications include optimisation, logistics, drug discovery, and advanced machine learning.
Quantum Simulation & Software Stack: Advance specialised quantum simulators and tools for modelling complex systems — from chemical reactions to material behaviour — inaccessible to traditional computers.
Quantum Communication & Cybersecurity: Build secure communication systems with quantum key distribution (QKD), quantum internet integration, and next-gen cryptography. This includes the development of post-quantum encryption protocols to safeguard data against future quantum attacks — ensuring robust, long-term security aligned with Europe's civil and defence security agendas.
Quantum Sensing & Metrology: Create ultra-sensitive sensors for medical diagnostics, environmental monitoring, navigation, and infrastructure. Enable accurate, traceable measurements with quantum metrology for standardisation and certification.
Relevant Funding Opportunities for Quantum Technologies
Horizon Europe (RIAs & IAs) Cluster 3
Collaborative R&D and innovation projects including Cluster 3 (Civil Security), Cluster 4 (Digital & Industry), and Cluster 5 (Climate, Energy & Mobility).
RIA: 100% funding rate + 25% overhead. Typically TRL 1-6, focusing on research and early-stage technology development.
IA: 70% funding + 25% overhead (100% for non-profits). Typically TRL 5–8, focusing on demonstration and market-oriented innovation.
Focuses on late-stage scale-up of quantum prototypes into industrial leaders. The dedicated STEP Scale Up call supports fast-growing SMEs and small mid-caps in transforming breakthrough prototypes into globally competitive industrial leaders. The focus is on quantum technologies, advanced semiconductors and other critical deep-tech enablers. You can also apply as an investor or PLC.
For high-risk SMEs scaling up validated quantum technologies (TRL 5+). It gives grants and equity funding to innovative startups and SMEs with high impact/risk products or services. A unique combination of funding from €0.5 to 17.5 million to support innovative, products, services or business models that can create new markets or disrupt existing ones. New application process - 3 main stages.
For early-stage, disruptive quantum research (TRL 1–4). The programme consists of a combination of both open and challenge driven funding. It supports the exploration of bold ideas for radically new technologies and welcomes the high-risk and interdisciplinary cutting-edge science collaborations that underpin technological breakthroughs.
The European Chips Act will unlock unprecedented funding to support the semiconductor sector across Europe and mobilise up to EUR 43 billion of public and private investments through 2030 to bolster Europe’s research, technology and industry in semiconductors. Funding supports R&D and industrialisation of quantum-enabled components.
Projects are high-risk, aiming for ambitious outcomes that drive new knowledge, growth, employment, and societal solutions in Denmark. Proejcts involve collaboration among companies, universities, and research institutions, covering stages from research to implementation. Grants typically range from DKK 5-30M lasting 2-5 years.