Espace Quantique 1 inaugurated in DistriQ’s Quantum Innovation Zone, Premier talks future
By William Crooks
Local Journalism Initiative
Sherbrooke’s Quantum Innovation Zone witnessed a significant advancement Nov. 24 with the opening of Espace Quantique 1 (EQ1) and the Quantum Technology Development Laboratory (DevTeQ). As a hub of innovation and a global showcase, EQ1 aims to be the forefront of Sherbrooke and Quebec’s quantum technology sector, extending its influence across Canada and North America. This development closely follows the introduction of IBM Quantum System One by PINQ2 last September. Quantum technology uses the findings of quantum science, which studies the fundamental building blocks of nature, and applies it to a wide range of areas, including computing, defense, and communications. Premier Francois Legault spoke at the inauguration and detailed its significance for Quebec’s future.
EQ1 spans 50,000 square feet, and is exclusively devoted to quantum technology. EQ1 offers a collaborative environment for startups, companies, and other entities in the field, with private offices and co-working spaces. A prominent feature of the facility is the 20,000 square foot DevTeQ, a shared world-class laboratory. This unique space will host around fifteen companies and partners, bringing together over a hundred top-tier professionals. EQ1 not only facilitates access to cutting-edge lab equipment for quantum technology development but also accelerates its industry adoption.
The Quebec government has significantly backed this initiative, contributing over $28.77 million towards the total $40.8 million investment. EQ1 is set to play a pivotal role in advancing this specialized field, easing the transition from research to commercialization and generating employment opportunities. Additionally, Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions (CED) and Desjardins have contributed $5.2 million and $1 million, respectively.
Martin Enault, General Manager of DistriQ, Quantum Innovation Zone, expressed his excitement about uniting quantum companies in one place. He highlighted the collaborative environment that EQ1 offers, aiding in the establishment of quantum companies within the Zone, and signaled readiness to welcome more quantum enterprises.
The Zone continues to bolster Sherbrooke’s growth and positions Quebec as a key player in quantum science and technology on the global stage. This is further reinforced by PASQAL’s (a leader in quantum computing) announcement of a $90 million investment over five years, promising over 50 new jobs.
Raphaël de Thoury, CEO of PASQAL Canada, underscored the decisive role of Quebec’s financial support and unique vision for DistriQ in their decision to expand their industrial strategy globally. He emphasized that EQ1 is a significant opportunity for companies in the quantum field, fostering collaboration among various stakeholders, from researchers to industrial application specialists. This synergy is expected to lead to significant innovations and high economic value in the future.
“There are challenges in Quebec that we also see in France,” Legault said, after emphasizing the importance of Quebec and France working together. There is a big debate between those who advocate for fundamental scientific research and those who advocate for research into its applications. Quebec is first in fundamental research, but last in developing its applications, he continued, which is something they are trying to change.
“What can we do to inspire zones of innovation in Quebec?” Legault said. Everyone tries to copy California’s Silicone Valley model, where universities like Stanford and local businesses work together to “commercialize” innovation.
Legault said he has been accused of being “utilitarian” for trying to bring universities and businesses together, but doing so is good for all Quebecers. Businesses make money and pay taxes that are put towards society as a whole. This is exactly why this inauguration is so important, he insisted. It is not an accident that it is being founded in Sherbrooke to partner closely with Sherbrooke University (UdeS), for UdeS has been working closely with the business world for decades.
“I find this extraordinary,” Legault continued; what they are working towards is developing the technology of the future. It is no exaggeration to say that Quebec is at the forefront of this movement, and Quebec’s economy is in the middle of being transformed. These are steps towards creating employment for Quebec’s children and grandchildren – our future generations. “Bravo! I am very proud.”