ANNAPOLIS – Microsoft plans to open a new quantum research center just off the campus of the University of Maryland, giving academics and researchers direct access to the company’s latest hardware prototypes.
The new center will allow government agencies and academic institutions to collaborate on hardware and software development, Gov. Wes Moore announced on Wednesday.
“Maryland is making big bets on the future to grow our economy and drive innovation,” Moore said in a press release announcing the development. “Quantum is at the center of that strategy.”
Microsoft will be joining several other companies in the University of Maryland’s Discovery District, a research park designed to help government officials, researchers and entrepreneurs work together on new technology ventures.
The University of Maryland and other partners in the initiative have pledged more than $70 million to help the state become a leader in quantum computing, which performs mathematical calculations exponentially faster than the old way. Moore launched the Capital of Quantum initiative in January with an initial investment of $52.5 million of the state’s FY2026 budget.
“We are excited to be part of Governor Moore’s vision for the Capital of Quantum through the opening of this unique, partner-focused quantum center in Maryland’s Discovery District,” said Jason Zander, executive vice president at Microsoft. “This partnership exemplifies what is possible when state and federal leaders, academia, and industry unite for a common purpose.”