WEF & IBM – Quantum Economy, 2024

The Quantum Economy Blueprint aims to assist regions and countries in developing and commercializing quantum technology initiatives. Quantum technologies, including quantum computing, sensing and imaging, and communications and networking, have the potential to create new solutions for unsolved problems and drive innovation in various industries. The blueprint serves as a reference for policymakers, government institutions, industry, and academia to understand the different elements involved in building a quantum ecosystem. It also helps stakeholders define their role in the quantum value and supply chain and determine the best approaches to accelerate implementation. The report highlights the potential for new jobs and economic growth in the quantum economy. It also emphasizes the need to protect economic security, business integrity, and cybersecurity. Responsible and sustainable development, deployment, and use of quantum technology are crucial, and the blueprint enables the development of strategies in these areas. The report draws on the analysis of existing national and regional quantum technology strategies. It captures the core elements of these strategies and distills them into overarching themes and detailed building blocks. These building blocks can be mapped to a timeline based on a country or region's progress in the quantum journey, helping prioritize focus areas in the short and long terms and defining their own quantum strategy. Countries and regions are encouraged to participate in the quantum economy, regardless of their capacity to occupy the entire value chain or develop complex quantum technologies. They can contribute by supplying critical quantum or adjacent components or by training a local quantum-literate workforce. It is important for countries and regions to objectively assess their strengths and weaknesses, align their choices with their long-term political and industrial goals, and consider their social and economic identity when reviewing and choosing relevant approaches.