Denver-Boulder area seeks to establish itself as the futuristic equivalent of Silicon Valley through Quantum rush

The Denver-Boulder area is positioning itself as the new Silicon Valley of quantum technology, as companies and organizations in the region race to unlock the potential of quantum computing. With its thriving ecosystem, the region is attracting major players in the industry and making significant advancements in the field.

Atom Computing, a quantum company based in the San Francisco area, recently chose Boulder as the location for its new $100 million facility. CEO Rob Hays highlighted the region’s bright future and the remarkable progress they have made in building two of the largest quantum computers in just 18 months.

Maybell Quantum, another key player in the industry, is working on developing a super refrigerator that can chill atoms to extremely low temperatures, more than 100,000 times colder than the coldest part of Antarctica. This supercooled environment is crucial for quantum computers to operate effectively, as it helps minimize vibrations that can disrupt the delicate calculations performed by quantum chips.

The promise and potential of quantum technology are vast. Just as semiconductors paved the way for powerful computers and networking devices that revolutionized the internet, quantum technology has the potential to transform various industries, including medicine, defense, and agriculture. Maybell Quantum CEO Corban Tillemann-Dick envisions data centers filled with rows of quantum computers solving the world’s most pressing problems.

Colorado is actively competing to become a quantum hub and solidify its position as a global leader in the field. The Biden-Harris administration recently designated the Denver-Aurora region as one of 31 “Tech Hubs” in the United States, recognizing its high potential for growth in key technology sectors. Elevate Quantum Colorado, a private-public consortium consisting of over 100 organizations, is leading the charge to establish Colorado as a quantum leader. With support from the University of Colorado Boulder, state and local governments, federal labs, and private companies, Elevate Quantum Colorado aims to create Silicon Valley-like ecosystems for quantum technology.

Colorado Governor Jared Polis is a strong advocate for quantum technology and sees its potential to drive economic growth in the region. His administration plans to invest an additional $74 million into the quantum industry over five to nine years if Colorado is selected to receive federal funding. Polis believes that the time for quantum technology has come and is confident in the region’s chances of securing the funding.

The Denver-Boulder area is on the brink of becoming a quantum powerhouse, with major companies, organizations, and government support driving its growth. As the race to unlock the potential of quantum computing intensifies, the region’s thriving ecosystem and innovative spirit position it as a formidable contender to rival Silicon Valley in shaping the future of technology.

Tune in to CNBC’s “Cities of Success” special featuring Denver and Boulder on April 11 at 10 p.m. ET to learn more about the region’s quantum revolution.