British businesses developing quantum technologies are being backed with a share of £50 million as part of a new government package. This funding aims to support innovators in turning new science into real-world solutions, with potential applications in railway maintenance, eye diagnostics, and military communications.
The investment is being delivered through UK Research and Innovation’s (UKRI) Quantum Technologies Priority Programme. It will directly support companies building next-generation systems that could outperform current technology in critical areas, such as quantum sensors for precise measurements in healthcare, transport, infrastructure, and national security.
Winning projects include MoniRail, based in the West Midlands, which is developing a quantum monitoring system to pinpoint railway track faults where GPS is unavailable. Bristol-based Siloton is creating a handheld quantum eye scanner designed to make advanced eye diagnostics more accessible outside specialist hospitals. Oxfordshire-based ColdQuanta UK is also receiving support to develop a compact, mobile quantum radio system for accurate signal location, which could aid military operations, critical infrastructure, and emergency responders.
This funding contributes to the government's broader goal of making the UK a world leader in quantum sensing by 2030, supported by up to £2 billion in investment earlier this year. UKRI is also investing £20 million in UK-based businesses to build domestic capability in quantum networks, supporting companies like Sheffield-based Aegiq to develop specialist components such as lasers and photonic chips.
Additionally, an £8 million expansion of UKRI’s QuEST Apprentices Programme will create new routes into skilled quantum jobs. This programme aims to train engineering and specialist quantum technicians needed to build, maintain, and commercialise these technologies, with a goal to equip 150 apprentices by 2030.