Atom Computing was selected by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency to advance to the final stage of DARPA’s Quantum Benchmarking Initiative. Stage C of the program carries potential funding of up to $300 million.
The Quantum Benchmarking Initiative is evaluating whether utility-scale quantum computers can be built on a faster timeline than conventional industry expectations.
Atom Computing was selected for Stage A in early 2025 and advanced to Stage B later that year.
During Stage B, the company developed a detailed plan for building a utility-scale quantum computer, including technology milestones, risk assessments, mitigation strategies, and prototype systems.
During Stage C, an independent government verification and validation team will evaluate whether Atom Computing’s proposed system can be built and operated as designed.
Microsoft has also agreed to provide algorithmic support and error correction codes to Atom Computing as part of the effort.
Atom Computing develops quantum systems based on neutral-atom technology.
The company has demonstrated systems exceeding 1,000 physical qubits and said it has achieved sub-threshold performance with end-to-end quantum error correction across multiple rounds.
In 2025, Atom Computing completed what it described as the industry’s first commercial sale of a logical-qubit quantum computer to QuNorth.
The company also recently signed a letter of intent with the U.S. Department of Commerce involving $100 million.
KEY QUOTES:
“We believe utility-scale quantum computing is closer than many expect, and this milestone reinforces our confidence in the scalability and performance of neutral-atom architectures.”
Dr. Ben Bloom, CEO and Founder of Atom Computing
“Atom Computing’s neutral-atom architecture, combined with its demonstrated progress toward fault-tolerant quantum computing, positions the company at the forefront of delivering practical quantum systems capable of addressing some of the world’s most complex computational challenges.”
Dr. Jonathan King, Chief Scientist and Co-Founder of Atom Computing
