EeroQ on Capitol Hill: Advocating for U.S. Quantum Leadership and Innovation
Hannah Parnes, EeroQ’s Head of Policy and Governmental Affairs, went to Washington, D.C. for a congressional briefing on the future of quantum computing and the need for federal leadership.
During the Capitol Hill briefing, leaders from research, industry, and government expressed that sustained investment in quantum is transformative for communications, cryptography, and healthcare. The message was clear: the United States must maintain its leadership in quantum technology on the global stage.
Ms. Parnes made sure that EeroQ’s perspective was considered, highlighting the unique opportunities and challenges faced by small businesses as they work to scale quantum technologies. Key topics emphasized included the importance of strong public-private collaboration, consistent funding throughout every stage of the innovation pipeline, and policies that enhance workforce development and infrastructure.
Government support is crucial for small and medium-sized businesses, as it can provide the necessary resources to translate breakthroughs into practical applications. “A lot of innovation happens in academic laboratories and national labs,” Hannah states, “but also in small and medium-sized businesses that are taking big risks for the technologies of tomorrow.” She further explains, “So that means for Congress to recognize that sometimes nontraditional contractors need to have pathways and opportunities to engage with programs or access to funding so that the most innovative and groundbreaking technologies can be supported here in the United States.” Meanwhile, countries such as China, Canada, Germany, and the United Kingdom are making significant investments in quantum technology, underscoring the need for the United States to keep pace.
When asked about the briefing, Hannah said, “Congress realizes that quantum technologies will be the key for American economic competitiveness and national security for the decades to come, so I was pleased to share EeroQ’s perspective about how sustained support for the entire quantum innovation lifecycle will allow the US to keep pace in the global race to develop quantum technologies. As the federal government considers reauthorizing the National Quantum Initiative Act and embarking on an executive branch quantum plan, EeroQ will continue to have its voice heard as the only company worldwide developing our next-generation approach to quantum computing chip architecture.”
Hannah’s presence in D.C. is a testament to EeroQ’s commitment to being more than a technology company; we are actively informing the policy landscape for quantum in the United States. We are honored to have Hannah representing us, and we look forward to continuing further engagement in Congress to ensure quantum’s future is built here.