Atom Computing selected by DARPA for the next stage of exploring near-term utility-scale quantum computing with neutral atoms

November 7, 2025 – Berkeley, CA – Atom Computing has been selected by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) to proceed to the next stage of exploring how Atom’s highly-scalable neutral atom technology will realize utility-scale quantum computing in the near term.

Earlier this year, DARPA announced that Atom Computing was selected for Stage A of the  Quantum Benchmarking Initiative (QBI), an expansion of the existing Underexplored Systems for Utility-Scale Quantum Computing (US2QC) program. The QBI aims to determine the possibility of building an industrially useful quantum computer much faster than conventional predictions.

Yesterday, DARPA announced that Atom Computing has been selected for Stage B of the QBI program, a year-long project during which participating companies are asked to describe an R&D 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. As part of the program, Microsoft has agreed to also provide algorithmic support and error correction codes to Atom Computing.

To realize a utility-scale quantum computer, Atom Computing leverages the scalability and flexibility of its technology, as well as multiple critical platform capabilities such as high-fidelity gate operations, all-to-all qubit connectivity, 1,000+ physical qubits, long coherence times, mid-circuit measurement with qubit reset and reuse, and novel networking technology. These capabilities enabled a joint demonstration with Microsoft of the entanglement of 24 logical qubits, and error detection, correction, and computation with 28 logical qubits. The team recently demonstrated a new set of platform capabilities which improve the quality, reliability, and robustness of logical qubits.

“Being selected to proceed to Stage B of the QBI program is an amazing opportunity for our team to demonstrate how Atom Computing will achieve utility-scale quantum computing”, said Dr. Ben Bloom, Founder and CEO of Atom Computing. “We are looking forward to working with the team at DARPA to deliver on the exciting promise of pushing state-of-the-art quantum computing technology to utility scale applications.”

About Atom Computing

Atom Computing is developing large-scale quantum computers to enable companies and researchers to achieve unprecedented computational breakthroughs. Utilizing highly scalable arrays of optically trapped neutral atoms, the company has developed systems with over 1,000 qubits, featuring advanced capabilities towards fault-tolerant quantum computing. Atom Computing’s on-premises systems provide customers with new computational tools and logical qubit capabilities to address increasingly complex applications and to grow their quantum ecosystem. QuNorth, a Nordic quantum initiative funded by EIFO and Novo Nordisk Foundation, recently announced the purchase of Atom Computing’s on-premises system. The system, to be named ‘Magne’, will be installed and brought online in Copenhagen, Denmark. Learn more at atom-computing.com and follow us on LinkedIn.

NVIDIA introduces NVQLink

Inside the Colorado Quantum Incubator with Atom Computing

Original publication here.

By Heather Hansen

Hub for quantum advances grows as additional companies move in

The Colorado Quantum Incubator (COQI)—a CU Boulder-led hub for advancing quantum lab-to-market technology translation, research, innovation and community engagement—has rapidly taken shape in a state-of-the-art facility at BioMed Realty’s Flatiron Park in Boulder. COQI is ramping up operations as it welcomes its first tenant companies, now including tenant Atom Computing, a global leader in neutral atom quantum processors.

Atom Computing, which focuses on developing large-scale quantum computers that can achieve unprecedented computational breakthroughs, will use space at COQI while expanding and renovating its existing Boulder facility. Dr. Remy Notermans, director of strategic planning at the company said that COQI is filling a critical need at a time of great growth for the company, locally and globally. ”The quantum incubator is really pivotal and helping to allow us to grow in the area, and giving us that extra space to do that, so it’s all tying in in a really nice, neat way.”

Atom Computing has deep ties to CU Boulder; it was founded by Ben Bloom (PhD, Physics) and is advised by Jun Ye, professor of Physics and fellow at JILA and NIST. “Atom brings deep hardware experience and a global perspective” to the incubator, said Scott Sternberg, CUbit Quantum Initiative executive director and COQI project lead.

According to Sternberg, Atom’s residence goes beyond space rental. Each company moving into the incubator is helping to shape it in some way and Atom is helping to refine the incubator’s technical capabilities. “We’re not only getting a tenant, but we’re getting a consultant that’s telling us how to outfit the space for their needs, which is indicative of the needs of other quantum companies. So, that’s a good relationship,” said Sternberg.

Atom’s tenancy at COQI is a true symbiosis, agreed Justin Ging, Atom’s chief product officer. “We’ve had our technical teams advising on what the leading lab spaces need for this type of quantum work,” he said. “It’s been nice that we can give back, provide that expertise and guidance,” he said.

Four pillars, one mission

COQI was launched last January with the goal of connecting Colorado’s world-class capabilities in quantum research to commercialization, and offering facilities for prototype testing, collaborative development and public engagement. The 13,000-square-foot facility is backed by bipartisan legislative support and spearheaded by CU Boulder, in partnership with Colorado State University, Colorado School of Mines and Elevate Quantum, a coalition of 120 organizations.

COQI is built around a mission to be “Human driven, quantum powered,” said Sternberg. That mission is supported by four pillars: two on the “human” side, including support services specialized for quantum development and community gathering places like the CUbit-sponsored Quantum Café and the Colorado Quantum Meeting Series, a regular forum for researchers, industry professionals and students to exchange ideas and build partnerships.

On the “quantum” side are university-inspired lab platforms and instrumentation suites that leverage CU Boulder’s deep expertise in areas like atomic clocks, quantum networking, quantum materials and more. “All of this is designed to provide a nexus and attract companies—whether they’re local or global,” said Sternberg. “These are assets you can only get in total in one place in the world—and that’s Boulder, Colorado.”

Momentum at the core

The incubator is fast becoming a fulcrum for an industry that promises to transform how societies communicate, compute and solve problems once thought unsolvable. COQI’s list of new and prospective tenants is varied and growing, said Sternberg. “The interest has been overwhelming. It’s a door that people have beaten a path to, wanting these conversations, wanting to understand what we’re really building here,” he said. “The real benefit is that we’re at the center of the conversation. This is part of our innovation strategy—creating a nexus for quantum conversation, quantum talent development and quantum business development.”

CU Boulder has already established itself as a powerhouse of discovery and talent, with four Nobel Prizes in physics and a steady stream of graduates who are sought after in quantum-related careers. By inviting companies into the deep tech space and giving them access to difficult-to-acquire instrumentation, the incubator fulfills another objective—turning fundamental discoveries into industry-shaping innovations by advancing quantum technologies from the lab to the marketplace. “Certainly we’re focused on spinning out companies from the university,” said Sternberg. “This is a logical landing point for a startup, a first bridge out of the university into the real world.”

About Atom Computing

Atom Computing is developing large-scale quantum computers to enable companies and researchers to achieve unprecedented computational breakthroughs. Utilizing highly scalable arrays of optically trapped neutral atoms, the company has developed systems with over 1,000 qubits, featuring advanced capabilities towards fault-tolerant quantum computing. Atom Computing’s on-premises systems provide customers with new computational tools to address increasingly complex applications and to grow their quantum ecosystem.

About the Colorado Quantum Incubator

The Colorado Quantum Incubator (COQI) was created through collaboration among partner universities and state and regional economic development initiatives. Its purpose is to support quantum startups, provide access to advanced scientific equipment and serve as a testbed for quantum innovations. COQI aims to accelerate research into real-world applications, foster economic development, create quantum-related jobs and position Colorado as a global leader in quantum technology. 

Interested in being part of the Colorado Quantum Incubator? Reach out to cubit@colorado.edu.

 “The Quantum Marketplace” with Justin Ging

Atom Computing Strengthens European Presence with Appointment of Former Danish Ambassador Jesper Kamp as Regional Director

August 5, 2025 – Berkeley, CA — Atom Computing, a pioneer in scalable quantum computing built on neutral atoms, today announced a significant step in its commitment to the European quantum ecosystem with the appointment of Jesper Kamp as Regional Director for Europe. He will be based in Atom Computing’s Denmark office, effective immediately.

Kamp brings two decades of distinguished leadership in diplomacy, innovation policy, and strategic international engagement. Most recently, he served as Ambassador, Consul General, and CEO of Innovation Centre Denmark in Silicon Valley under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark. Kamp’s experience at the intersection of technology, geopolitics, and global public affairs will be instrumental as Atom Computing deepens its Danish and European presence and strengthens cross-sector collaboration within the rapidly emerging quantum ecosystem.

Dr. Ben Bloom, CEO and Founder of Atom Computing, commented: “Europe plays an increasingly critical role in shaping the global quantum landscape. Jesper’s unique background in diplomacy and innovation will help us build meaningful partnerships that advance the development and responsible deployment of quantum technologies. His appointment reflects our commitment to engaging strategically with European institutions, industry leaders, and governments to accelerate the path toward quantum advantage.”

Jesper Kamp added: “After more than 20 inspiring years in the Foreign Service, I am proud to join Atom Computing, a global frontrunner in quantum technology. The evolution of quantum and atom-based computing is no longer a scientific frontier alone; it is a strategic imperative for Europe’s technological sovereignty, security infrastructure, and economic resilience. I look forward to contributing to Atom Computing’s mission and forging strong partnerships across the region.”

This appointment builds on Atom Computing's increasing engagement in the region. Novo Nordisk Foundation and EIFO (Export and Investment Fund of Denmark), recently announced their $93 million investment to establish QuNorth and acquire “Magne,” the world’s most powerful quantum computer. Magne, which will be located in Copenhagen, will be powered by Atom Computing’s neutral atom hardware and further solidify Denmark's role in advancing both the European and global quantum ecosystems.

With Kamp’s leadership, Atom Computing will further align its European initiatives with its global mission: to accelerate the path to practical quantum advantage through scalable, high-fidelity neutral atom quantum computing platforms.

About Atom Computing

Atom Computing is developing large-scale quantum computers to enable companies and researchers to achieve unprecedented computational breakthroughs. Utilizing highly scalable arrays of optically trapped neutral atoms, the company has developed systems with over 1,000 qubits, featuring advanced capabilities towards fault-tolerant quantum computing. Atom Computing’s on-premises systems provide customers with new computational tools to address increasingly complex applications and to grow their quantum ecosystem. Learn more at atom-computing.com and follow us on LinkedIn.

The Quantum Revolution: Ben Bloom

EIFO and the Novo Nordisk Foundation Acquire the World’s Most Powerful Quantum Computer

EIFO, the export and investment fund of Denmark, and the Novo Nordisk Foundation, an independent Danish enterprise foundation, are investing €80 million in the establishment of a new Nordic quantum initiative, QuNorth, to advance the region’s technological development. Microsoft and Atom Computing will bring to QuNorth the world’s most powerful quantum computer and the first operational deployment of a machine powered by logical qubits.

The commercial and geopolitical stakes in quantum technology are immense, and significant technological advances have been made over the past decade. Despite a historically strong position in quantum research, Denmark and the Nordic region risk losing ground in the global race due to the lack of access to next-generation quantum systems, the Level 2 quantum computers.

To address this, EIFO and the Novo Nordisk Foundation are investing €80 million to establish QuNorth, a new Nordic quantum initiative. QuNorth’s primary mission is to acquire and operate the world’s most powerful commercial quantum computer to date. 

The computer will be named Magne, inspired by Norse mythology, where Magne, the son of Thor, is known for his immense strength. Magne is currently set to become the world’s most powerful commercially available quantum computer as one of the very first Level 2 quantum systems globally which is characterized by performing calculations using so-called logical qubits. With Magne, Denmark and the Nordic region will gain unprecedented research and commercial potential, contributing to a global leadership position. 

Morten Bødskov, Danish Minister of Industry, Business and Financial Affairs, commented: 

"The world has changed, and the competition for critical technologies is fierce. China and the USA are investing massively while Europe is falling behind. Quantum technology comes with enormous potential, and Denmark and the EU must seize this opportunity. With the investment in the world's strongest quantum computer, we are making a solid shift in the global quantum race. This will benefit all of Europe. We need to harness the untapped possibilities of quantum technology for Danish and European businesses, society, and security. Denmark and the EU must lead the race in developing new technologies." 

Both EIFO and the Novo Nordisk Foundation have intensified their focus on quantum technology over the past year. With the investment in QuNorth and Magne, the two foundations aim to strengthen both the Danish and Nordic quantum ecosystems. 

Peder Lundquist, CEO of EIFO, commented: 

“A quantum computer of Magne’s caliber maximizes the likelihood that Denmark will be among tomorrow’s winning nations. Having access to one of the world’s very few Level 2 quantum computers will give Danish researchers and companies a unique advantage of national significance. With QuNorth, Denmark is taking a quantum leap into a future laid by the foundations of Niels Bohr’s research.” 

Mads Krogsgaard Thomsen, CEO of the Novo Nordisk Foundation, commented:  

“Today, the Nordic countries have limited access to the latest quantum computers on the market. This means our researchers and companies risk falling behind compared to other parts of the world. With the investment in QuNorth and Magne, we aim to provide a strong platform that prioritizes access for Nordic users.”

QuNorth will work proactively to support researchers and industry in leveraging Magne – among other things by developing new applications across areas such as material science and chemistry related product development, and by helping to attract talent and new quantum investments to the Nordic region. QuNorth will collaborate closely with other stakeholders involved in the development and commercialization of quantum research in the Nordic region, which is expected to also provide a European competitive advantage. 

Magne will be delivered by a partnership between Microsoft and Atom Computing – both are world-leading companies in the field of quantum technology and are already strongly rooted in the Danish ecosystem. Microsoft has invested significantly in building and expanding its global quantum innovation center just north of Copenhagen and will equip Magne with their specialized quantum software and applications powered by the recently unveiled Microsoft Discovery. Atom Computing decided last year to establish its European headquarters in Copenhagen as EIFO and a local pension fund invested in the company. Atom Computing has developed a “neutral atom” technology, currently considered the best performing quantum technology. 

Jason Zander, Executive Vice President, Microsoft Corporation, commented: 

“We are thrilled to deepen our collaboration with Denmark and the Nordics - key to Europe’s quantum ambitions. Together with Atom Computing, we are striving to build the world’s most powerful quantum computer that applies Microsoft’s advanced error correction to Atom Computing’s high-fidelity qubits. We are proud that this state-of-the-art system comes to life in Denmark, also home of our decades-long investment in advanced quantum fabrication and research. We welcome this era of collaboration with the Novo Nordisk Foundation, EIFO, and industry leaders, accelerating innovation across scientific breakthroughs, from drug discovery to disease modelling. Reliable quantum computing is now a reality.” 

Dr. Ben Bloom, CEO at Atom Computing, commented: 

“The team at Atom Computing is excited to deliver its cutting-edge technology into the hands of a broad range of users, as Atom’s hardware integrates advanced compute capabilities that enable deep technical research into novel logical qubit algorithms and quantum error correction. On top of that, together with Microsoft, the system provides a full-stack solution that empowers quantum innovation and applications for academia and industry. We believe that together with Microsoft and QuNorth, the Danish and Nordic quantum ecosystems will take a global leadership position for years to come.” 

Construction of Magne will begin in autumn 2025, and the computer is expected to be ready for its first tasks by the new year 2026/27. The selection of Microsoft and Atom Computing in making Magne possible is the result of a thorough evaluation of various quantum platform’s current technological strengths and benefits, as well as the solution’s overall contribution to the Nordic quantum ecosystem, including access for researchers to the physical hardware. 

Magne will be 100% Danish-owned, with EIFO and the Novo Nordisk Foundation each investing approximately €40 million in the establishment of QuNorth. Search for a CEO for the new company will now begin, and QuNorth plans to build a small organization of around 10 employees, whose primary task will be to ensure optimal utilization of Magne across commercial and academic users in the Nordic region. In addition, QuNorth will establish four PhD/postdoc roles in collaboration with Microsoft.  

QuNorth will present its commercial and academic program at a Nordic quantum event to be held in autumn 2025. Both Magne and QuNorth will be based in Copenhagen. 

About QuNorth

About Magne 

About quantum technology and level 2 computers 

The three levels of quantum computing are: 

About EIFO, www.eifo.dk

About Novo Nordisk Foundation, www.novonordiskfonden.dk

Repeated Ancilla Reuse for Logical Computation on a Neutral Atom Quantum Computer

Improving the Quality, Reliability, and Robustness of Logical Qubits

At the end of 2024, Atom Computing and Microsoft demonstrated the entanglement of large numbers of logical qubits in Atom’s flagship systems, and used them for running algorithms. Since then, the team at Atom has been improving the quality, reliability, and robustness of these logical qubits.

Today, researchers at Atom Computing demonstrated new error correction capabilities which enable high-depth logical circuits on Atom’s neutral-atom quantum processors. Leveraging these capabilities, the team also demonstrated improved system reliability with deterministic creation of logical qubit quantum states (logical Bell pairs) and increased system robustness by replacing qubits that are lost mid-circuit without disrupting the rest of the running algorithm, thereby enabling the platform to run circuits indefinitely.

The key enablers of this progress are an upgraded implementation of Atom’s unique mid-circuit measurement technique (the ability to read out a subset of the qubits in the platform without disturbing all other qubits) with immediate qubit reset and reuse, and the integration of real-time conditional branching (the ability of the system’s software stack to decide what its next operation should be, based on the mid-circuit measurement results).  

Atom Computing continues to execute on its roadmap towards fault-tolerant quantum computing, both through advanced research projects and participation in the DARPA QBI program. This progress shows that Atom Computing’s neutral atom technology is not only scalable in the number of logical qubits, but also in their performance. Improvements along both vectors is crucial for being able to build and deliver platforms that can solve large computational problems that enable scientific and economic value beyond classical computing.

Dr. Ben Bloom, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Atom Computing, said “These demonstrations of our technology continue to prove that Atom is a leading contender to win the race to fault-tolerant quantum computing. With our scalable logical qubits, both in numbers and in quality, we are looking forward to enabling our customers to fully leverage this technology for their researchers and ecosystems.”

The work was supported by researchers from the Microsoft Quantum team.

Quantum computing could change science forever - if it works