PHOENIX — Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego announced Tuesday that the city will launch a Phoenix Quantum Strategy to position the Valley as a national hub for quantum computing.
“Phoenix is on the leading edge of biosciences and semiconductors,” Gallego said during her State of the City speech. “And we’re not stopping there. Now it’s time to get ready for the next frontier of advanced tech: quantum computing, communications and sensing.”
The initiative will be led by former National Science Foundation director Dr. Sethuraman “Panch” Panchanathan.
“Panch’s leadership at ASU and NSF helped shape America’s innovation agenda, and now he’s ready to lead the efforts for Phoenix,” Gallego said.
The strategy will unite universities and industry partners to accelerate breakthroughs in the emerging field.
Why is Mayor Kate Gallego pursuing the Phoenix Quantum Strategy?
“Quantum technology is a promising platform for new economic growth, and by harnessing our assets and having the right approach, we can attract investment and better diversify our economy with industries built for the future,” Gallego said.
Quantum computers are seen as tools that may eventually solve certain problems that would take modern-day computers years, according to IBM. They operate using the laws of quantum physics, a complex framework that can be difficult to explain outside the scientific community.
According to ASU News, the global effort to advance quantum technology has been likened to the 1960s Space Race due to the scale of investment and the competition involved. Thus, Gallego’s decision to build research partnerships, attract quantum-related companies and develop talent could position Phoenix as a hub for next-gen tech.
Christine Mackay, the president and CEO of the Greater Phoenix Economic Council, is also playing a role in the Phoenix Quantum Strategy.
“Mackay has agreed to convene regional partners who share our interest because this can be an incredible win for the entire Valley,” Gallego said.
What does this look like in action?
Phoenix isn’t starting from scratch. Several quantum-focused companies and research groups are already operating in the region.
“One company that shows what’s possible is EigenQ, which is building the infrastructure for post-quantum security,” Gallego said.
She said this company offers proactive solutions to future cybersecurity issues.
“Each day, our city depends on digital systems, from traffic signals to water treatment to emergency response. EigenQ is creating the next generation of digital protection, designed to defend against threats that haven’t yet arrived,” Gallego explained.
She said EigenQ came to Phoenix through the Southwest Mission Acceleration Center, a business incubator for companies working in the defense sector.
“That is a powerful signal that Phoenix is not just participating in the future of quantum technology,” Gallego said. “We have the potential to become the place where it takes root.”
