Quantum momentum

This October, hundreds of researchers, entrepreneurs, investors, industry leaders and policymakers will gather in Calgary for qConnect 2026, Quantum City's signature event

For Alberta Innovates, the event highlights an important opportunity: helping Alberta businesses understand how quantum technologies can create real-world value.

While quantum computing often captures headlines, one of the biggest challenges facing the sector today is adoption. How can companies identify where quantum technologies can deliver value? How can researchers connect their innovations with industry needs? And how do promising ideas move from the lab to commercial opportunity?

That's where Quantum City comes in.

Founded through a partnership between the University of Calgary, the Government of Alberta and Mphasis, Quantum City brings together industry, researchers and innovators to explore practical applications for quantum technologies and accelerate commercialization in Alberta.

Turning potential into application

Quantum City focuses on bridging the gap between scientific discovery and industry adoption.

Through initiatives such as its industry challenge programs, collaborative events and innovation networks, Quantum City enables organizations identify business problems that can benefit from quantum-enabled solutions while connecting companies with the expertise needed to explore these opportunities.

Alberta Innovates supports this work through funding for the Quantum City Global Challenge, helping create opportunities for researchers and industry partners to work together on problems with commercialization potential.

The approach reflects a shared understanding that innovation happens faster when the right people are connected to the right opportunities.

The power of connection

Technology alone does not build an ecosystem.

People do.

One of Quantum City's strengths is its ability to convene researchers, entrepreneurs, investors, businesses and government partners around a common goal: ensuring Alberta is positioned to benefit from the next generation of advanced technologies.

Whether through collaborative programs, industry partnerships or events such as qConnect, Quantum City helps create the relationships that drive innovation.

These connections are increasingly important as Alberta's quantum ecosystem continues to grow and attract national and international attention. Recent announcements, including new investments and initiatives, demonstrate the growing momentum behind Alberta's quantum sector and the opportunities ahead.

A shared vision for Alberta's future

This “quantum momentum” aligns closely with Alberta Innovates' 2026-2029 Business Plan and the Government of Alberta's Technology and Innovation Strategy 2.0, both of which identify quantum as a priority sector for future economic growth and global competitiveness.

For Alberta Innovates, supporting organizations like Quantum City is about helping create the conditions for success: bringing together talent, industry and investment so new technologies can move more quickly from research to application.

As qConnect 2026 brings the quantum community together it serves as a reminder that the future of quantum will not be defined solely by breakthrough discoveries.

It will be defined by adoption, commercialization and collaboration.

By helping make those connections happen, Quantum City is strengthening Alberta's position in one of the world's most promising technology sectors, and creating new opportunities for innovators, businesses and the province's economy to grow.