TOKYO - The entrepreneurs who continue to challenge themselves to change the world are now attracting even greater attention as they push into the unknown frontiers of quantum computing.
Their breakthroughs have drawn wide recognition, creating new opportunities for investment and collaboration. Many have said that after watching the program “Breakthrough,” they became fans, with some even offering financial backing. Well-known companies, including major global firms, have approached them with proposals to become involved, whether through hardware development or broader business partnerships. For startups aiming to create an entirely new quantum computing industry, these connections with large corporations are seen as invaluable.
Ishiba, speaking after one of these events, declared that this year marked the beginning of industrializing quantum computing in Japan. With the government pledging 7 billion yen in support for optical quantum technology, the commitment at the national level is clear. Executives in the field view this as a decisive chance for Japan to gain a foothold in the global competition. Compared with other advanced economies, Japan’s spending on quantum research is already substantial, creating an increasingly supportive environment for startups.
For now, startups are expected to take risks by hiring talent and advancing research and development responsibly. At the same time, attracting further investment from venture capitalists and institutional investors will be essential. While the timeline for listing or exiting remains uncertain, the goal is to raise 200 to 300 billion yen, based on benchmarks set by overseas rivals, some of which have already secured amounts exceeding 100 billion yen.
Deloitte recently published a ranking of fundraising among quantum startups, placing leading overseas firms at the top with 100 billion yen or more. Japanese companies, however, only appear around 30th place. To catch up, several hundred billion yen in funding will be necessary. Beyond capital, talent remains the most pressing challenge. OptQC, for instance, currently operates with about 30 members, including part-timers, but lacks the manpower to simultaneously expand both research and commercialization. Building a stronger team is seen as critical to transforming prototypes into products ready for the market.
The coming two years are viewed as a decisive phase for research and development, a window in which Japan’s quantum computing startups must prove their ability to compete globally.
Source: テレ東BIZ
