The document outlines a federal request for proposals focused on the development of utility-scale quantum computing technology. It presents an approach for research and development, detailing a roadmap that spans through 2033. The initiative aims to tackle significant technological challenges and risks associated with quantum computing, including the need for verification and validation strategies to ensure functionality and reliability. It emphasizes the necessity of a comprehensive R&D roadmap, which will guide the development process and incorporate specific technical challenges along with planned mitigation strategies to address potential risks. The document also references the "Quantum Benchmarking Initiative," highlighting that the information within is sensitive and authorized for distribution only with the agreement of the responsible officer. The organizational involvement and points of contact are specified but not elaborated upon, which suggests a structured approach to collaboration within the government sector.

The DARPA Quantum Benchmarking Initiative (QBI) is soliciting proposals for the development of a Utility-Scale Quantum Computer. The submission process mandates the use of a specific abstract template, which includes a structured format for detailing the proposal. Key components required in the submission include a proposed approach, identification of technology challenges, demonstration of technical ability, and a roadmap with milestones through 2033. The maximum length for abstracts is eight pages, excluding references, which do not count against this limit. Proposers must articulate their strategies for overcoming technical difficulties, outline the capabilities of their team, and provide a timeline for project development. Additionally, organizations must confirm they are not providing conflicting services to DARPA through existing contracts. This initiative underscores the federal government's commitment to advancing quantum computing technology.

The document outlines an Other Transaction Agreement (OTA) between the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) and a designated performer focused on the Quantum Benchmarking Initiative (QBI). The primary objective is to support the government in assessing the viability of a Utility-Scale Quantum Computer Concept Design through a structured research and development approach. The agreement details the responsibilities for project management, payment terms linked to milestones, and provisions for patent rights and data usage. It emphasizes the need for continuous collaboration between the performer and DARPA, ensuring that proposed technological advancements align with military and commercial applications. Specific sections address the rationale for the initiative, management structure, and dispute resolution processes. The document also stresses the importance of safeguarding sensitive information related to the project, particularly in the context of cybersecurity. Overall, this agreement reflects a significant commitment by the government to foster advancements in quantum computing technology while maintaining rigorous oversight and compliance standards.

The document outlines the funding and milestones schedule for Stage A of a project, providing details on key deliverables and corresponding payment amounts. It specifies three main milestones: the kickoff meeting (Month 1) with a payment of $150,000, the concept design review (Month 4) for $500,000, and the final concept design report (Month 6) at $350,000. The total allotment for Stage A is capped at $1,000,000, indicating flexibility in payment distribution as long as the overall total remains unchanged. The attachment also references an accompanying Task Description Document, which aligns tasks and targets with the mentioned milestones. The highlighted sections indicate areas not to be completed by proposers, ensuring clarity in submission requirements. Overall, the document serves as a structured framework for managing project funding and deliverables within the realm of government contracting and grants, providing a clear earning schedule contingent on project advancement.

This document outlines a Task Description Document (TDD) for Stage A of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) Quantum Benchmarking Initiative (QBI), aimed at evaluating the feasibility of constructing a Utility-Scale Quantum Computer (USQC). The TDD specifies tasks and subtasks involved in developing a Concept Design Report over a six-month period, with an initial focus on the performer’s system concept. Key milestones include a kickoff meeting, a concept design review, and the delivery of a draft and final concept design report. Tasks will require a structured approach, assessing performer processes, physical decomposition, and functional decomposition of the USQC design. Locations for task execution are to be indicated and may involve human subjects or animals, which need to be noted if applicable. Deliverables are outlined for each subtask, ensuring a clear expectation for the government’s assessment and feedback. This initiative emphasizes the importance of rigorous verification and validation as the project proceeds from Stage A to potential advancement in future stages, reflecting DARPA’s commitment to advancing quantum computing technology in a staged manner.

The document outlines certifications and representations required for entities submitting proposals under the DARPA-PS-24-26 program solicitation. It emphasizes compliance with federal regulations, including debarment status, drug-free workplace requirements, and nondiscrimination laws. For proposals over $100,000, it mandates disclosures regarding lobbying activities and affirmations about unpaid tax liabilities or felony convictions. Additionally, it prohibits contracts with entities demanding confidentiality agreements that hinder reporting of fraud or abuse. The submission must also confirm that no prohibited telecommunications equipment or services will be used. Offerors are required to detail any participation by nontraditional defense contractors, nonprofit research institutions, or small businesses, with documentation supporting their claims. Furthermore, there are specific stipulations regarding intellectual property rights, especially regarding technical data, software, and patents involved in the proposed work. This document serves as an essential guideline for applicants in navigating federal funding protocols and regulations.

The DARPA document outlines expectations for the final Concept Design Report for the Quantum Benchmarking Initiative (QBI). It serves as a guideline for applicants on the content structure but is not mandatory for submission. The report should be in specific formats and adhere to formatting rules. Key sections include an Executive Summary, detailing the design and construction processes for a Utility Scale Quantum Computer (USQC) and how prior plans inform current concepts. Subsequent sections address prototypes, design processes, critical technological challenges, supply chain analysis, and physical/functional decompositions of the USQC system. Each section poses essential questions to guide the discussion of components, functionalities, operating modes, and applications of the USQC. The document aims to ensure comprehensive and coherent submissions that address the complexities of building a utility-scale quantum computing system, reflecting DARPA's investment in advancing national technology capabilities through structured grant applications and proposals.

The QBI Concept Design Evaluation document outlines the evaluation process for utility-scale quantum computing concepts under DARPA's Quantum Benchmarking Initiative (QBI) Stage A. It details a structured approach comprising three analysis thrusts: Deep, Targeted Analysis, Broad Systems Evaluation, and Utility Evaluation, all aimed at verifying ongoing research and development efforts at private quantum computing enterprises. The evaluation framework operates on a hierarchical system categorized into Roots, Branches, and Leaves, encompassing performer processes, physical and functional decompositions of a Utility-Scale Quantum Computer (USQC). The methodology is designed to be performer-agnostic and utilizes both quantitative and qualitative assessments to determine technical viability and potential applications. Foundational to the evaluation are aspects such as critical technologies, design processes, supply chain analyses, logical operations, and integrations with classical computing systems. The ultimate goal is to ensure that the selected concepts lead to a viable USQC that fulfills strategic needs for the U.S. Government. The evaluation criteria and methodologies are subject to change based on evolving data and insights.

The Quantum Benchmarking Initiative (QBI) program solicitation from DARPA’s Microsystems Technology Office seeks innovative solutions for challenges in quantum computing, specifically to develop a utility-scale fault-tolerant quantum computer by 2033. The solicitation outlines a structured proposal process, with key dates for submissions and evaluations set between August and November 2024. It emphasizes the need for verification and validation of proposed quantum computing concepts through three critical stages: Concept Description (Stage A), Research and Development Planning (Stage B), and Validation (Stage C). The program encourages submissions from all responsible sources, including small businesses and research institutions. DARPA anticipates multiple award contracts and is particularly interested in approaches that can achieve revolutionary advances instead of incremental improvements. The submissions will be evaluated based on technical plausibility, ability, and relevance to national security technology objectives. The overall goal is to rigorously assess the feasibility of various approaches to realizing utility-scale quantum computing, contributing valuable insights to U.S. government stakeholders. This initiative reflects DARPA’s ongoing efforts to advance technological capabilities in quantum computation, a field seen as transformative for various scientific disciplines.

This document serves as a Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) guide specifically for the Microsystems Technology Office (MTO) of DARPA, providing essential instructions for identifying, protecting, and managing sensitive information related to MTO solicitations or requests. The guide emphasizes compliance with federal regulations, namely DoDI 5200.48, and discusses various categories of CUI, including Defense, Export Controlled, and Proprietary Business Information. Key topics include the purpose of this guide, its applicability to DARPA personnel and contractors, and protocols for reporting unauthorized disclosures. The guide outlines the information protection requirements, emphasizing the safeguarding of CUI against unauthorized access and detailing processes for public disclosure and responses to FOIA requests. Additionally, it covers operational security measures to mitigate risks associated with information breaches and provides notification procedures for security incidents. This comprehensive guidance is vital for ensuring the protection of sensitive, unclassified information while facilitating proper handling under federal laws, particularly in the context of government RFPs and grants that may involve proprietary or export-controlled information.

The Quantum Benchmarking Initiative (QBI) is a program solicitation from DARPA (PS Number: DARPA-PS-24-26) aimed at fostering innovation in utility-scale quantum computing. The solicitation outlines the proposal submission process, key deadlines (including abstract submissions due by September 19, 2024), and the nature of funding through Other Transactions (OT) for Prototypes. Notably, the initiative encourages participation from nontraditional defense contractors and small businesses. Participants must adhere to eligibility requirements, including registration in the System for Award Management (SAM) and the submission of DARPA-specific certifications. Abstracts must address key components such as proposed approach, technology challenges, and technical capabilities. The evaluation will focus on scientific merit, relevance to DARPA’s mission, and budget considerations. Key milestones feature fixed payable criteria, and award decisions are based on observable technical events. Additionally, the document emphasizes clear communication protocols during various phases, from solicitation to negotiation. This initiative showcases DARPA's commitment to leveraging flexible procurement strategies to enhance relationships and collaboration in the defense sector while driving technological advancements in quantum computing.

The Quantum Benchmarking Initiative (QBI) is a DARPA program aimed at advancing the development of industrially useful quantum computing by 2033. The initiative offers funding, unbiased verification, and communication of results to U.S. Government stakeholders for organizations focused on building utility-scale quantum computers. Motivated by the economic opportunities and security threats posed by quantum computing, QBI seeks to separate hype from reality, establishing whether a truly powerful quantum computer can be constructed. The program is structured into three stages: Stage A involves evaluating the feasibility of proposed quantum computer concepts for up to $1 million, Stage B examines detailed research and development plans for up to $15 million, and Stage C focuses on validation, co-design, and the assessment of prototypes with potential funding up to $300 million. Partnerships with key stakeholders, such as the Department of Energy and the State of Illinois, strengthen the initiative by facilitating testing and evaluation resources. Proposers are encouraged to submit abstracts to begin engagement with the program. Overall, QBI aims to foster breakthroughs in quantum computing for anticipated industrial applications in various fields.

The Quantum Benchmarking Initiative (QBI) is seeking Abstract submissions for Stage A of its program, which aims to facilitate the development of utility-scale quantum computing. The document provides a series of questions and answers to clarify eligibility, application procedures, and evaluation criteria. Key points include that organizations interested in application and algorithm development must be part of a larger team and can apply through the QBI Program Solicitation (PS) or the Request for Information (RFI). Multiple awards are anticipated across the stages, with no restrictions on foreign participation as long as legal requirements are met. The timeline for submission includes an Abstract due by September 19, followed by an oral proposal phase. Questions about budget allocations, collaboration opportunities, and publication rights are addressed, emphasizing that all proposals should demonstrate the potential for industrial utility by 2033. The QBI aims to broaden participation from diverse technological approaches in quantum computing while fostering collaborative research and development efforts throughout the program duration.

The Quantum Benchmarking Initiative (QBI) is a federal solicitation aimed at developing utility-scale fault-tolerant quantum computers by 2033. The initiative seeks abstracts for Stage A, indicating a focus on collaboration among teams to create comprehensive quantum computing solutions. Proposals that consider both industrial and military applications are welcome. DARPA emphasizes the importance of evaluating computational value and encourages diverse technological approaches without limiting participation based on prior programs. Key deadlines include an abstract submission by September 19 and oral proposal presentations from November to December 2024. The funding structure anticipates flexibility, with Stage B likely being a modification of Stage A and Stage C focusing on component validation rather than complete system construction. The initiative allows multiple submissions from the same organization, aiming for innovative and transformative technologies. QBI fosters collaboration throughout all stages and places strong emphasis on confidentiality regarding proprietary information. Overall, the initiative represents DARPA's commitment to advancing quantum computing technology through collaborative efforts and rigorous evaluation criteria.

The Quantum Benchmarking Initiative (QBI) is a solicitation by DARPA aimed at inviting proposals for developing utility-scale quantum computers by 2033. The document details responses to frequently asked questions regarding application eligibility, including foreign participation, team composition, funding structures, the assessment of proposals, and expectations for each of the program's three stages: A (6 months), B (12 months), and C (36 months). Key points include the solicitation of abstracts, evaluation criteria based on computational value, and the potential for multiple awards across divergent hardware approaches. The program is open to both innovative and mature technologies, emphasizing robustness in intellectual property protection and collaboration between teams. While DARPA encourages the development of industrially and militarily relevant systems, no applications are expected for evolutionary improvements on existing technologies. Throughout the initiative, DARPA prioritizes speed and clear communication, allowing teams to adapt and engage with diverse partners while maintaining compliance with federal regulations. The overarching goal is to foster the creation of a fault-tolerant quantum computing environment to meet national and industrial needs.