Quantum computing has captured global attention, even as its practical use remains in the early stages. Nina Granqvist from Aalto University School of Business and Anne-Sophie Barbe, a CNRS Research Fellow at the University of Toulouse, shed light on a puzzling trend: massive investments and enthusiasm coexist with a cautious approach from many potential users.
Government and private funding have poured billions into the field—about $7.2 billion in the EU, nearly $3.7 billion in the U.S., and up to $25 billion in China—with venture capitalists contributing around $2 billion each year. Despite this flood of resources and high expectations, most companies are sticking to small trials or partnerships. It’s understandable when the science remains challenging and the market is still finding its footing.
Backed by the Research Council of Finland since 2019, experts have been examining these barriers closely. Quantum computing is touted for its ability to solve problems, like simulating complex chemical reactions, that classical computers simply can’t handle. As a result, several tech-centric firms are testing the waters by teaming up with hardware manufacturers or quantum software startups. These initiatives are about exploring potential, even if significant financial and technical commitments are yet to be justified by solid commercial returns.
Yet the landscape is anything but straightforward. ‘Quantum computing’ now covers a range of technologies—from general-purpose quantum machines to more specialised quantum annealers—each drawing on different scientific traditions. This diversity makes both understanding and comparison challenging, forcing companies to consider hiring in-house quantum experts, a move that can be both expensive and risky given the uncertain timeline for real-world applications.
As industries weigh their options, predicting early adopters is a mixed bag. While sectors like pharmaceuticals and aerospace, which already rely on high-performance computing, seem logical candidates, other fields such as logistics, construction, or manufacturing might embrace quantum breakthroughs sooner if they can pinpoint a clear advantage. Many organisations remain on the sidelines, grappling with the unfamiliar and often perplexing nature of the technology.
The bottom line is that while quantum computing holds exciting promise, wide-scale commercial adoption will likely come in measured steps as companies seek out clear use cases and build the expertise necessary to harness its full potential.
