In line with the government’s modern Industrial Strategy (2025), the UKRI future roadmap for the next five years (2026-2031) singles out quantum technologies alongside artificial intelligence (AI) and clean energy as frontier technologies, recognising their growth potential and aiming to secure “an average of £3 of additional investment for every £1 of public funding, with some sectors achieving an even greater return” across their whole portfolio investment. Part of the Digital and Technologies portfolio, which also includes AI, engineering biology, advanced connectivity technologies, cyber security and semiconductors, quantum technologies will benefit from an allotted investment budget of £4B over the next five years.

The UKRI strategy acknowledges the success of the national quantum technologies programme in translating the country’s research excellence into commercial products, setting the foundations for a quantum-enabled economy. Alongside targeted investment in quantum computing, quantum sensing, imaging and timing, and quantum secure communications and networking, it further pledges support for training and skills development to help prepare the future workforce.

Find out more about the 2026-2031 UKRI Strategy.