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Quantum Benchmarking Initiative (QBI) 2026 is a grant from the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) designed to rigorously evaluate whether quantum computing approaches can achieve utility-scale operation — meaning their computational value exceeds their cost — by 2033. The program is not a competition; DARPA aims to evaluate all viable approaches within available funding.
Performers progress through three stages: Stage A involves describing a plausible utility-scale quantum computer concept, Stage B requires a detailed R&D plan with risk mitigation prototypes, and Stage C involves DARPA-led verification and validation of the proposed concept. The application deadline is November 14, 2026.
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QBI: Quantum Benchmarking Initiative | DARPA Department of War organization. QBI: Quantum Benchmarking Initiative QBI: Quantum Benchmarking Initiative QBI aims to significantly increase engagement with and funding for quantum computing hardware companies that believe they have what it takes to make it through DARPA’s rigorous verification and validation process.
| 2:45 | More information on DVIDS Source: DARPA | Spencer Bruttig In the simplest terms, the Quantum Benchmarking Initiative (QBI) seeks to determine whether it’s possible to build an industrially-useful computer by 2033. Specifically, QBI is designed to rigorously verify and validate whether any quantum computing approach can achieve utility-scale operation — meaning its computational value exceeds its cost.
QBI is not a competition between performers: DARPA is interested in evaluating all viable approaches for which there is available funding. Successful performers will progress through three stages: Stage A: Describe a utility-scale quantum computer concept that has a plausible path to realization in the near term.
Stage B: Describe a Research and Development Plan capable of realizing the utility-scale quantum computer, the risks associated with that plan and the planned risk mitigation steps, and the prototypes needed to burn down these risks. | Learn more about Stage B teams Stage C: Work with the Government to Verify and Validate that their utility-scale quantum computer concept can be constructed as designed and operated as intended.
In addition to funding performers, QBI will add value to their ongoing research and development efforts by providing unbiased third-party verification and validation of an organization’s path to a utility-scale quantum computer. QBI will also effectively communicate the results of this verification and validation effort to other U.S. government stakeholders.
QBI is an expansion of the existing DARPA Underexplored Systems for Utility-Scale Quantum Computing (US2QC). QBI is separate from but related to the existing Quantum Benchmarking (QB) program, which sought to determine the yardstick for impact.
Download the presentation Quantum Benchmarking Initiative Topic (QBIT) Stage A QBI Topic Independent Verification and Validation (IV&V) Microsystems Technology Office Quantum Benchmarking Initiative expands quest to separate hype from reality DARPA, State of New Mexico establish framework to advance quantum computing DARPA, State of Maryland sign agreement to propel quantum research DARPA eyes companies targeting industrially useful quantum computers DARPA selects two discrete utility-scale quantum computing approaches for evaluation DARPA to host meeting, discussions with quantum computing companies Moving quantum computing from hype to prototype Voices from DARPA: The Quantum Mechanic | Ep 71
Based on current listing details, eligibility includes: Public and private institutions of higher education, non-profit organizations, and commercial entities. Applicants should confirm final requirements in the official notice before submission.
Current published award information indicates Multiple awards; see specific program announcement Always verify allowable costs, matching requirements, and funding caps directly in the sponsor documentation.
The current target date is November 14, 2026. Build your timeline backwards from this date to cover registrations, approvals, attachments, and final submission checks.
Federal grant success rates typically range from 10-30%, varying by agency and program. Build a strong proposal with clear objectives, measurable outcomes, and a well-justified budget to improve your chances.
Requirements vary by sponsor, but typically include a project narrative, budget justification, organizational capability statement, and key personnel CVs. Check the official notice for the complete list of required attachments.
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Review timelines vary by funder. Federal agencies typically take 3-6 months from submission to award notification. Foundation grants may be faster, often 1-3 months. Check the program's timeline in the official solicitation for specific dates.
Many federal programs offer multi-year funding or allow competitive renewals. Check the official solicitation for continuation and renewal policies. Non-competing continuation applications are common for multi-year awards.