Quantum Benchmarking Initiative (QBI) 2026 Announcement

The DARPA Quantum Benchmarking Initiative (QBI) 2026 seeks revolutionary approaches that can deliver a utility‑scale, fault‑tolerant quantum computer by 2033. Each QBIT (topic) call will define a specific research challenge, required deliverables, eligibility, and the proposal format (abstract, written, oral). Award instruments will be Other Transaction (OT) agreements for either prototype development or research, with the acquisition strategy designed to reduce administrative burden and program risk. Proposers must submit a Stage B plan describing a research‑and‑development roadmap, associated risks, mitigation steps, and prototype milestones, followed by Stage C activities to verify and validate the envisioned USQC concept with the Government’s Independent Verification and Validation team. All work must protect Controlled Unclassified Information in accordance with DoD 5200.48, DFARS 252.204‑7012/7019/7020, and related export‑control requirements; classified submissions require prior notification. DARPA will evaluate proposals competitively at the QBIT level but will pursue every viable approach that receives funding, emphasizing breakthrough advances in design, engineering, test, and evaluation rather than incremental improvements.

Notice ID

c26b38bf041a4d70b00ed619bebb4773

Solicitation Number

DARPA-PA-26-02

NAICS Code

541715

Classification Code

AC12