The NQCC Quantum Computing Access Programme
The NQCC Quantum Computing Access Programme provides access to assured quantum compute services to grow the UK’s quantum computing user community.
The programme is part of the NQCC’s ‘SparQ’ initiative to support quantum readiness for the UK. It aims to accelerate scientific research, innovation, skills development and application discovery.
Users may request access to a range of state-of-the-art quantum computing platforms from leading technology providers. The programme seeks to remove access barriers and support multi-platform exploration and development.
Quantum computing platforms
The following quantum computing platforms are currently available through the Quantum Computing Access Programme:
Azure Quantum
IONQ ARIA 1 (25 Qubits), FORTE (32 Qubits) and RIGETTI ANKAA-3 (82 Qubits)
+ MICROSOFT and backend simulators
AWS BRAKET
IONQ ARIA 1 and 2 (25 Qubits), RIGETTI ANKAA-3 (82 Qubits), IQM GARNET (8 Qubits)and QUERA AQUILA (256 Qubits)
+ AWS and backend simulators
IBM QUANTUM
IBM BRISBANE, BRUSSELS, FEZ, KYIV, NAZCA, SHERBROOKE, STRASBOURG and TORINO. These are distributed across the processors: EAGLE R3 (127 Qubits), HERON R2 (156 Qubits) and HERON R1 (133 Qubits).
+ IBM simulators
Access for academic users
Users from the UK academic community may apply for access to quantum computing resources in support of research activities at UK universities. Access is awarded on a three-month basis, subject to a rolling application and review process
- Next available access period: 1st August – 31st October 2025
- Application will open early Summer 2025.
Access associated with funded research and development calls
The NQCC seeks to promote use-case discovery through a range of funding calls under the SparQ initiative.
In addition to NQCC application engineering expertise, collaborative Proof of Concepts projects now offer quantum computing resources as part of the award package.
Please monitor Funding opportunities – NQCC for the latest relevant funding calls.
Access for a partner institution or programme
The NQCC may consider allocation of access to a partner council or UK institution to deliver a programme aligned to UK quantum readiness objectives.
Please click here to submit preliminary details of your proposed programme/activity.