Innovation Saskatchewan (IS) is investing $400,000 through the Innovation & Science Fund (ISF) to acquire and install the first university owned-and-operated, vendor-supported, full-stack, open-architecture quantum computer in Canada at the University of Saskatchewan (USask).
Designed and manufactured by Rigetti Computing, founded by Saskatchewan-born entrepreneur Chad Rigetti, the superconducting quantum processor at the heart of this quantum computer will provide researchers 24-7 on-site access for hands-on research, rapid testing and student training. The system will be operated by USask's Centre for Quantum Topology and Its Applications (quanTA) under the leadership of Dr. Steven Rayan (PhD), Director of the quanTA Centre and Professor, Mathematics and Statistics, USask College of Arts and Science, and will serve as the foundation for a future applied quantum research centre of excellence.
Quantum computers dramatically shorten research timelines by performing complex, high-precision calculations far faster than classical supercomputers. The USask facility will help accelerate discovery and optimization across key sectors, such as agriculture, life sciences, mining and critical minerals, energy, defence and digital technology, while strengthening Saskatchewan's capacity to build next generation research infrastructure that drives innovation, talent and economic growth.
"Innovation is moving faster than ever, and quantum computing is at the leading edge of that shift," Minister Responsible for Innovation Saskatchewan Warren Kaeding said. "By investing in USask's growing strength in quantum science, we are helping expand Saskatchewan's research capacity, unlock new economic opportunities and bring breakthrough solutions to market faster."
That potential is already taking shape in the province. For example, quanTA and the Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization (VIDO) are using quantum modelling to accelerate vaccine testing and development - work that currently relies on out-of-province systems. With a full stack quantum computer in Saskatchewan, projects like this will advance more efficiently, reduce external dependency and support broader research collaborations within the province.
Quantum innovation will also strengthen delivery on key commitments in Saskatchewan's Research Strategy by enabling faster genomic analysis for crop development, supporting precise simulations that accelerate drug discovery and optimizing energy systems to advance the transition to renewable power.
Additionally, expanding in-province quantum capacity will attract new research and industry partnerships, support the growth of local companies and build a highly skilled workforce that enhances the province's long-term competitiveness and resiliency.
"This remarkable milestone is a monumental achievement that positions USask as a key player in quantum research on the world stage," USask President and Vice-Chancellor Vince Bruni-Bossio said. "As we step into the future, USask is continuing to establish itself as a cutting-edge institution and a hub for national and international quantum-focused research that will propel work in agriculture, health sciences, defense technologies and more across the Prairies."
This provincial investment is complemented by $1.93 million from Prairies Economic Development Canada (PrairiesCan) through the Regional Innovation Ecosystems (RIE) program. This support aligns Saskatchewan with Canada's National Quantum Strategy, raises the province's profile nationally and positions it to participate fully in future federal research and industry partnerships.
Innovation Saskatchewan recently expanded the ISF program by nearly doubling annual funding to $5.2 million and launching four streams focused on research infrastructure, research projects, ecosystem development and international collaboration. Since launching in 2018, ISF has invested $26.6 million, leveraging $167 million in external funding to support academic research.
