The Swiss Quantum Initiative aims to further strengthen Switzerland’s leading position in the field of quantum technology, from basic research to application.
Image : Gerd Altmann, CC0
Annonce
Call for Pre-Proposals under the Swiss Quantum Initiative
The Swiss Quantum Initiative (SQI) is excited to announce a new call for pre-proposals. The aim of the call is to accelerate quantum technologies in Switzerland towards practical and real-world applications.
Image : Argonne National Laboratory
The call for pre-proposals is closed. The call for proposals is now running.
The call for pre-proposals runs from April 30, 2025, until June 13, 2025. Interviews for selected pre-proposals are planned for July and August. The call is part of an initiative by the Swiss Quantum Commission to enhance technology readiness ("TRL-enhancing initiative") within the framework of financial support measures for 2025–2028. It aims to support the growth of new quantum technologies and to encourage collaboration between experts from academia, research institutions, and industry.
Focus of the call
The pre-proposals should aim to advance existing technologies towards medium to high Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) and to help shape new areas of application. They should focus on at least one of the following objectives:
Strengthen or expand quantum-specific shared infrastructures and platforms;
Build capabilities and initiate engineering efforts in quantum technologies;
Enhance national collaboration and foster expert and user networks.
By TRL, the SQI refers to the following scale:
TRL 1: Basic principles observed
TRL 2: Technology concept formulated
TRL 3: Experimental proof of concept
TRL4: Technology validated in lab
TRL 5: Technology validated in relevant environment (industrially relevant environment in the case of key enabling technologies)
TRL 6: Technology demonstrated in relevant environment (industrially relevant environment in the case of key enabling technologies)
TRL 7: System prototype demonstration in operational environment
TRL 8: System complete and qualified
TRL 9: Actual system proven in operational environment
Submission guidelines and upcoming webinar
The legal basis is described in the call paper and in the SQI funding regulations. Submissions are welcome until June 13, 2025 to using this submission form (max. 6 pages, images may be included as an appendix within the document).
There will be an information webinar on 14 May 2025, where the idea and goals of the call will be presented and clarified. There will also be enough time to answer potential questions. The webinar will take place on zoom. You can register here: Webinar pre-proposals TRL-enhancing initiatives.
Outlook for successful pre-proposals
Applicants of selected pre-proposals will be invited to submit full proposals to further develop their ideas. Funding of up to CHF 15 Mio. is available for these projects. The supported projects are expected to start in early 2026.
