The Commerce Department is in discussions with several quantum computing firms, including IonQ ($IONQ), Rigetti Computing ($RGTI), and D-Wave Quantum ($QBTS), about granting federal funding in exchange for government equity stakes. The potential deals represent a new phase in the Trump administration’s push to directly invest in strategic technologies.
- The proposed funding would provide at least $10 million to each company, sourced from the Chips Research and Development Office.
- Other firms, including Quantum Computing Inc. and Atom Computing, are also considering similar arrangements.
- The discussions follow a precedent set in August when the U.S. took a nearly 10% stake in Intel in exchange for converting $9 billion in grants to equity.
- Shares of leading quantum computing companies rose roughly 10% premarket after reports of the talks.
- The funding structure could include warrants, royalties, or intellectual property licenses alongside direct equity stakes.
Relevant Companies
- IonQ ($IONQ) — Potential recipient of federal funding tied to government equity participation.
- Rigetti Computing ($RGTI) — In discussions with the Commerce Department regarding investment terms.
- D-Wave Quantum ($QBTS) — Reportedly engaging with federal officials over similar funding structures.
Editor’s Note: This is a developing story. This article may be updated as more details become available.
