Quantum Benchmarking Initiative (QBI) 2026 Announcement
ID: DARPA-PA-26-02Type: Solicitation
Overview

Buyer

DEPT OF DEFENSEDEFENSE ADVANCED RESEARCH PROJECTS AGENCY (DARPA)DEF ADVANCED RESEARCH PROJECTS AGCYARLINGTON, VA, 222032114, USA

NAICS

Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Nanotechnology and Biotechnology) (541715)

PSC

NATIONAL DEFENSE R&D SERVICES; DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE - MILITARY; APPLIED RESEARCH (AC12)

Original Source

https://sam.gov/workspace/contract/opp/c26b38bf041a4d70b00ed619bebb4773/view
Timeline
    Description

    The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is soliciting innovative proposals for the Quantum Benchmarking Initiative (QBI) 2026, aimed at developing utility-scale quantum computers by 2033. This initiative seeks to explore groundbreaking approaches to constructing fault-tolerant quantum computing systems and computational workflows, specifically excluding evolutionary improvements to existing technologies. The program anticipates multiple awards through specific QBI Topic (QBIT) calls, which will detail research areas, proposal processes, and deadlines, with a focus on high-risk, high-reward research. Interested parties should submit proposals in response to the defined QBIT calls and can contact the QBI PA Coordinator at QBI@darpa.mil for further information.

    Point(s) of Contact
    QBI PA Coordinator
    QBI@darpa.mil
    Files
    Title
    Posted
    DARPA-PA-26-02.pdf
    DARPA's Microsystems Technology Office (MTO) has issued the Quantum Benchmarking Initiative (QBI) 2026 Program Announcement (DARPA-PA-26-02) to solicit innovative approaches for developing utility-scale quantum computers. The primary goal is to determine if any quantum computing approach can achieve utility-scale operation by 2033. This initiative expands on previous programs (US2QC and QBI 2024) and encourages new entrants to propose high-risk, high-reward research. Proposals are not submitted directly to this announcement but through specific QBI Topic (QBIT) calls, which will define research areas, proposal processes (including abstract and oral presentation requirements), eligibility, scope, and specific deadlines. The program anticipates multiple awards, primarily using Other Transaction (OT) agreements for prototype or research, aiming for streamlined administration and rapid prototyping. QBI will provide unbiased third-party verification and validation of proposed paths to utility-scale quantum computing. Key stages involve describing a plausible utility-scale quantum computer concept, outlining a research and development plan with risk mitigation, and collaborating with the government to verify the concept's construction and operation.
    QBI_CUI_Guide.pdf
    The DARPA Quantum Benchmarking Initiative (QBI) Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) Guide, version 1.0, dated June 11, 2025, outlines policies for protecting unclassified but sensitive information related to the QBI program. The QBI program aims to determine the feasibility of building an industrially useful quantum computer by 2033. This guide, applicable to all DARPA personnel and contractors, details CUI categories such as Defense, Export Control, Financial, Proprietary Business Information, and Operations Security. It also specifies handling procedures for CUI, including disclosure protocols, protection requirements, and reporting unauthorized disclosures. The document emphasizes adherence to DoDI 5200.48 and NIST standards, providing charts and additional guidance for identifying, marking, and controlling the dissemination of sensitive program information, including proprietary data from performers. The guide also addresses Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) exemptions and foreign disclosure conditions for CUI.
    Lifecycle
    Title
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    Quantum Benchmarking Initiative (QBI) 2026 Announcement
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