Spain’s Spinoff, Qilimanjaro, Set for Success
Qilimanjaro Quantum Tech, the spin-off of the UB, the BSC and the IFAE, pioneers quantum computing in Europe
Key points…
+ A team of researchers led by Prof. José Ignacio Latorre, from the Faculty of Physics of the University of Barcelona (UB), and including Dr. Pol Forn Díaz, from the Institute for High Energy Physics (IFAE), and Dr. Artur Garcia, from the Barcelona Supercomputing Center (BSC), have created Qilimanjaro Quantum Tech SL, a spin-off of the University of Barcelona, the Barcelona Supercomputing Center, and the Institute for High Energy Physics. The founding team is completed by Victor Canivell and Jordi Blasco, who have executive experience in the IT and M&A sectors respectively. This innovative spin-off also has the support of world-leading advisors from the quantum technology sector.
Qilimanjaro develops the software needed to exploit the potential of quantum computing using tools such as the MareNostrum supercomputer. “The first steps of quantum computing will be made in contact with supercomputing centres that will allow us to complement such a new technology, which in our case will act as a speed booster for optimization problems,” adds Artur Garcia, from the BSC.
+ Through a unique combination of hardware and software, Qilimanjaro promotes a leading initiative in Europe. José Ignacio Latorre explains that, “in the long term, Qilimanjaro aims to be one of the companies that develops quantum computers, while at the same time offering quantum algorithmic solutions for other companies”.
+ He adds, “we are currently focused on developing quantum algorithms and creating the necessary infrastructure for a quantum computer, including the design and manufacture of quantum chips”. Pol Forn explains that, “the differential feature of Qilimanjaro’s quantum hardware is that it is based on high quality quantum bits –or qubits– to perform calculations using adiabatic quantum computing, a technique with the potential to offer actual optimization applications in this early period of the quantum technology era”.
+ The objective of this spin-off is to offer a complete service and democratize this revolutionary technology, since the new computer, a quantum variational device, will be accessible from a cloud service. This will allow companies and users to explore the possibility of applying quantum algorithms to real-life problems.
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