Austria's Quantum Technology Ecosystem
The winning team of the Best Pitch Award at the final event of the Quantum Innovation Lab (from left to right): Rolf Szedlak, Mauro David and Philipp Rachle (all TU Vienna)
Photo: Alexander Bachmayer
Austria has long been at the forefront of quantum research, from the pioneering work of Erwin Schrödinger to its world-renowned quantum research groups and institutions today. In recent years, however, beyond fundamental research, there has been a growing trend of quantum researchers exploring the commercial potential of their work, bridging the gap between academia and industry.
Indeed, now is an exciting time for quantum technologies. Hardware with qubit manipulation capabilities, such as small-scale quantum processors, is advancing rapidly, becoming increasingly robust and capable of functioning in less controlled, real-world environments. However, quantum tech extends far beyond computing hardware. Research-driven innovations in high-precision lasers, advanced photonic technologies, and specialized electronics developed in quantum labs have broad commercial applications. At the same time, several successful quantum software startups are emerging, demonstrating that Austria is developing a well-rounded and diverse quantum tech industry.
Austria’s quantum startup community is primarily concentrated in Vienna and Innsbruck, with each region focusing on different aspects of quantum technology. Innsbruck has a strong emphasis on quantum computing, producing successful university spin-offs in both hardware and software. Meanwhile, Vienna has become a hub for quantum light technologies, underscored by the recent Nobel Prize awarded to Anton Zeilinger. This expertise has fueled the creation of multiple spin-offs focused on quantum-secure communication and photonic technologies.
The expansion of Austria’s quantum tech industry is more than just a driver of economic growth, it is also creating new career opportunities. While academic positions remain limited and often require relocation, quantum startups and industry roles offer attractive, application-focused careers for researchers. This helps retain top talent within Austria and strengthens local innovation, ensuring the country remains competitive in the fast-moving global quantum industry.
Recognizing this potential, Austria is investing in support structures, education, and partnerships to accelerate the commercialization of quantum research. Several initiatives are already in place to build a strong quantum tech ecosystem, such as the recently launched Quanten-Hub Tirol supporting quantum innovation in the region, as well as initiatives led by the Vienna Center for Quantum Science and Technology (VCQ) and the University of Vienna such as the quantum innovation lab, an entrepreneurship program specifically designed for quantum researchers, and other efforts focused on fostering collaborations and partnerships between researchers, industry and investors.
Panel discussion of the founders of quantum spin-offs at the Quantum Innovation Lab (from left to right): Alexander Schwartz (moderator, xista science ventures), Kevin Berghoff (Quantum Diamonds GmbH), Felix Tiefenbacher (Quantum Industries GmbH), Stefan Fürnsinn (QUBO Technology GmbH), Aisling Johnson (Tulon Photonics), Markus Wagner (i5invest and planqc), Simon Gröblacher (QphoX)
Photo: Alexander Bachmayer
As quantum technologies move closer to real-world applications, they have the potential to transform industries such as computing, communication, and sensing. With its strong research foundation, highly skilled talent pool, and growing innovation ecosystem, Austria is well-positioned as a key player in the global quantum technology landscape.
Participants, mentors and trainers from the Quantum Innovation Lab
Photo: Alexander Bachmayer