On Thursday 20 April, the Technology Scotland team launched the Quantum Technology Vision Paper as part of our regular Photonics Scotland Members Social Evening at the Corinthian Club in Glasgow.

The launch was a great success and we were delighted to have both Richard Lochhead, Minister for Small Business, Trade and Innovation, and Ivan McKee, MSP, attend to share words of support for the paper and the ambition to create a billion pound quantum technology industry in Scotland. In addition to ministerial representation, it was brilliant to see over 50 of our members in attendance from across all areas of the photonics and quantum community in Scotland.

About the Quantum Technology Vision Paper

The global market for quantum technologies is set to grow rapidly over the next decade, accelerated by significant global investment and an improved understanding of their commercial use. The opportunity for Scotland is considerable, and with traditional strength in the adjacent area of photonics, the industry in Scotland is well positioned to secure future success.

The paper sets out the opportunity for Scotland and makes the case for future investment and strategic intervention that could develop our quantum sector into a billion pound industry by 2030.

The nine recommendations outlined in this paper have been developed in consultation with Technology Scotland members and the wider quantum technologies community. They have been categorised into four pillars:

  • Developing a workforce for the future
  • Supporting business growth
  • Growing Scotland’s position
  • Developing Scotland’s cluster

With quantum technologies (and the adjacent sub-sector of photonics) getting significant attention at both UK and Scottish Government levels, Technology Scotland hope that this paper will provide a framework for future decision making and a focal point for Scotland’s quantum ambitions over the coming years, helping secure Scotland’s place in the global arena.