Google Opts Out of U.S. Quantum Program

Google has opted out of a U.S. federal quantum technology funding program, citing concerns over funding conditions that could impede progress.

Google has decided not to participate in the U.S. federal program supporting quantum technologies. The company stated that the funding conditions could hinder the development of a practical quantum computer, according to Semafor.

In May, the U.S. Department of Commerce preliminarily approved $2.013 billion in funding for nine companies under the CHIPS and Science Act. The parties signed letters of intent and must finalize the funding conditions. The list includes GlobalFoundries, which is set to receive $375 million, and IBM, which is allocated $1 billion.

Seven other companies are expected to receive:

Atom Computing — $100 million;
Diraq — up to $38 million;
D-Wave — $100 million;
Infleqtion — $100 million;
PsiQuantum — $100 million;
Quantinuum — $100 million;
Rigetti — up to $100 million.

The U.S. Department of Commerce stated that the program aims to accelerate research and production of technologies for the quantum ecosystem. Companies will explore various approaches to quantum computing, including neutral atoms, silicon spin qubits, superconducting systems, photonic technologies, and ion traps.

As a condition of funding, the department will acquire a minority non-controlling stake in each recipient company. The specific requirements that influenced Google's decision remain unclear.

On June 10, Google Quantum AI's Chief Operating Officer, Charina Chow, noted during the Semafor Tech Summit in San Francisco that the corporation continues to collaborate with the U.S. government "in other ways." She mentioned that the government could provide more support for the quantum sector through funding fundamental research. Google is working with national laboratories and academic institutions, and such research is foundational for more advanced quantum developments, she added.

Chow also highlighted the challenging environment for attracting researchers from abroad. She emphasized that to make breakthroughs in quantum technologies, the U.S. will need "the best talent from around the world," while China remains a "serious competitor."

PsiQuantum co-founder Pete Shadbolt supported government involvement in funding the sector. He stated that it is natural for U.S. authorities to invest in quantum technologies due to their "deep geopolitical implications" and importance for national security.

PsiQuantum is among the companies that received a letter of intent for $100 million. The funds are intended to address technical challenges in photonic quantum computing, including materials, single-photon detectors, and photonic packaging.

It is worth noting that in March 2025, China announced the creation of the superconducting quantum computer Zuchongzhi 3.0. The system, featuring 105 qubits, exemplifies the accelerating competition between the U.S. and China in the field of quantum computing.