About challenge
The Global Industry Challenge is hosted virtually, with participating teams tackling a prioritized set of industry-defined use cases and collaborating and competing to develop corresponding solutions with quantum computers.
The Global Industry Challenge is a platform for innovators, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders to engage in collaborative action to solve practical use cases using quantum and quantum adjacencies such as AI. The 2026 Challenge is hosted by Connected DMV and supported by American Physical Society, Aqora, qBraid, and Quantum World Congress. Platform Providers include D-Wave, Quantum Computing Inc, and IBM. With use-cases posed by Challenge Providers, AIST, Mitsubishi Chemical, qBraid, MITRE, JonesTrading, Quantum Computing Inc, and the U.S. Department of Energy Office of Technology Commercialization.
Timeline
Start
Mar 2026 Wed, ET
End
Sep 2026 Sat, ET
Why this challenge exists?
The Challenge targets the development of solutions for key sectors that drive the quantum industry. It is more than just a competition. It’s a global movement to drive quantum breakthroughs in Energy Infrastructure, Advanced Materials, and Dynamic Systems Forecasting.
Innovators, researchers, and industry leaders will collaborate to tackle real‑world challenges with access to cutting‑edge quantum platforms. By bringing together diverse teams and resources, the Challenge aims to accelerate the practical implementation of quantum technologies across key sectors. The 2025 competition brought together over 600 applicants from 60+ countries around the world, culminating in winning teams presenting and being awarded at the Quantum World Congress.
Who is this challenge for?
Participants worldwide
- innovators
- entrepreneurs
- industry professionals
- students
- researchers
Tracks
Prizes & Outcomes
No prizes yet.
How to get started
Important: Before you join the Challenge Competitions, you must have completed the following Participant Registration Form. This is also a rule for each competition.
Phase 1. Team Formation & Application
-All Teams. March – April 2026
-Form your team, select one or more use cases, and submit your Phase 1 deliverable.
-Extended Submission Deadline: Sunday, April 19, 2026 11:59 PM (EST).
-Form your team, select one or more use cases, and submit your Phase 1 deliverable.
-Extended Submission Deadline: Sunday, April 19, 2026 11:59 PM (EST).
How do I register for the Challenge?
Please sign up through the following form and follow the instructions to register on Aqora to access the Challenges and qBraid to access the work portal —
Steps for Participation:
- Register through the link and complete the Participant Form.
- Create your Aqora Account and qBraid Account.
- Check out the four Competitions on Aqora.
Who can participate in the Challenge?
The Challenge is open to participants worldwide, including innovators, entrepreneurs, industry professionals, students, and researchers. However, individuals from countries under active export control restrictions may be excluded to comply with US international regulations.
Do I need to have prior experience in quantum computing to participate?
While prior experience in quantum computing may be beneficial, it is not explicitly a requirement. The Challenge encourages diverse participation, and teams may consist of members with varying expertise. Collaborative efforts between individuals with different skill sets can lead to innovative solutions.