Digital Catapult and the NQCC collaborate to strengthen the UK’s quantum capabilities  

Digital Catapult and the National Quantum Computing Centre (NQCC) are joining forces to launch a new phase of the Quantum Technology Access Programme (QTAP), sponsored by SparQ from the NQCC. 

QTAP is designed to inspire and prepare UK organisations for a future shaped by quantum computing. It offers a guided pathway for business users to understand what quantum could mean for their industry, helping them move from curiosity to practical exploration. The programme brings together training, hands‑on experimentation, and expert support to help participants imagine new possibilities and begin building the skills and knowledge needed to harness the potential of quantum computing.  

This new phase combines the Digital Catapult’s expertise in accelerating the practical application of deep tech in industry with the NQCC’s growing national capability in quantum computing and testbeds. 

The NQCC’s SparQ programme focuses on applications discovery, skills development, and building a connected UK quantum ecosystem, and Digital Catapult has enabled over 20 companies to get first-hand access and experience with quantum computing.  

The new collaboration aims to support up to twelve organisations across a whole range of sectors including energy, healthcare, transport and logistics, financial services, aerospace and defence. By enabling industry professionals to use quantum computing for business impact, the programme will help to drive early adoption and develop the next generation of quantum‑skilled practitioners. 

Through immersive learning and guidance, the cohort will explore two high impact quantum use case streams: 

• Combinatorial optimisation to address challenges such as logistics, resource allocation, and scheduling. 

• Quantum machine learning, supporting next generation data analysis and pattern discovery.  

Paul Ceely, Director of Technology Strategy, Digital Catapult said: “Our partnership with the NQCC represents an exciting milestone as we continue to prepare UK industry for the next wave of technological transformation. Quantum computing is approaching a moment of real opportunity, and this programme is designed to ensure businesses have the clarity, confidence and practical skills to explore where quantum can create meaningful impact, and to experiment on NQCC’s quantum computing systems. We’re thrilled to deepen our collaboration with the NQCC’s SparQ team and help build a stronger, more connected quantum ecosystem for the UK.” 

Simon Plant, Deputy Director for Innovation, NQCC, said: “Through the SparQ programme we are committed to opening up access to quantum computing technologies and helping industry understand their potential impact. By working with Digital Catapult, we can bring these capabilities to an even broader audience and support UK organisations in developing the pathway to real world quantum applications.” 

Applications open shortly for organisations across a wide range of sectors to explore quantum enabled approaches to some of the most pressing industry challenges.