Equal1, which makes a hybrid quantum-classical computing chip, has won the 2024 quantum Business Innovation and Growth (qBIG) Prize. Awarded by the Institute of Physics, the annual prize is given to a small or medium-sized company in the UK or Ireland that is focusing on the commercialization of quantum technology products or solutions.
Equal1 receives a £10,000 cash prize along with 10 months of mentoring from the UK-based venture capital firm Quantum Exponential – which sponsors the award. The company will also have access to the IOP Accelerator office space and business network in central London.
The award was given to Equal1 “for the development of a compact and energy-efficient silicon-based quantum computer designed for seamless integration into data centre infrastructure”.
Based in Dublin, Equal1 is developing rack-mountable quantum computers that are powered by its UnityQ device. This is a quantum system-on-a-chip (QSoC) that integrates quantum and classical components onto a single silicon chip using commercial fabrication processes. The company says that its approach will enable the development of quantum computers that are very compact in size.
Stimulate support
The award was presented yesterday in London at Economist Impact’s Commercialising Quantum Global conference. Accepting the prize on behalf of the company, Equal1’s CEO Jason Lynch said, “Winning the qBIG prize marks a significant milestone for Equal1, affirming our forward-thinking approach to quantum computing.” He added, “We believe that this recognition will stimulate increased industrial and governmental support as well as expedite our market readiness.”
Two runners-up for the award were also announced at the conference by Louis Barson, who is the IOP’s director of science, innovation and skills.
One is Leeds-based NIQS Tech, which was cited for “the development and commercialization of a revolutionary non-invasive, accurate glucose sensor which will support better diabetes management practices and reduce the impact of diabetes on individuals and healthcare providers”.
The other runner-up is Aquark Technologies, which is based near Southampton and was cited for “innovative contributions to quantum technology notably for their development of an advanced, accessible and robust cold matter platform based on the world’s first Supermolasses trap”.
“Today marks a momentous occasion as we celebrate the remarkable achievements of Equal1 and all the participants of the IOP qBIG Prize. Their dedication and innovation are integral to driving progress in the UK and Ireland’s economy and technology sector,” said Barson.
