Advancing Quantum Networks: NRC Launches QUIN Challenge Program (Canada)

The National Research Council of Canada (NRC) is seeking proposals for the QUIN Challenge, a program designed to develop critical technologies for quantum networking. The initiative supports collaborative projects with Canadian researchers, SMEs, academic institutions, and not-for-profits to advance scalable quantum networks, interconnect quantum devices, and integrate quantum systems across multiple platforms. Funding of up to $500,000 per project over three years is available to accelerate innovation and establish the foundations of a quantum-enabled Canada.

Program Overview

The QUIN Challenge is part of the NRC Collaborative Science, Technology and Innovation Program and aims to:

• Foster collaboration between researchers and industry

• Advance applied quantum materials, devices, and systems

• Enable scalable, interconnected quantum networks

• Support integration of quantum advances into real-world networks, including on-chip, data centre, metropolitan, and satellite applications

The program emphasizes solving scientific and engineering challenges at every scale, from components to full network demonstrations.

Key Focus Areas

1. Applied Quantum Materials and Integration – Developing materials and techniques for reliable quantum devices.

2. Quantum Components and Devices – Building qubits, detectors, and other network-relevant technologies.

3. Interfaces, Transducers, and Interconnects – Enabling efficient quantum information transfer across different platforms.

4. Systems and Demonstrations – Integrating components into functional networks to demonstrate robust, scalable quantum communication.

Who is Eligible?

Eligible applicants include:

• Academic institutions conducting quantum research

• Research organizations in Canada

• Not-for-profits engaged in science and technology

• Canadian SMEs with capabilities in quantum technologies

Collaborative proposals involving NRC researchers are strongly encouraged. Projects that enhance quantum interconnects, devices, or systems are prioritized, while early-stage research must show clear downstream application potential.

Funding and Eligible Costs

• Total program funding: up to $5,000,000

• Maximum per project: $500,000 over three years

• Funding type: non-repayable grants and contributions

• Eligible costs include:

  • Salaries for highly qualified personnel

  • Consumable materials for experiments

  • Equipment below and above $10,000

  • Research support costs

  • Project-related travel

  • Contractor or consultant fees

  • Indirect costs up to 10% of total eligible expenses

Why It Matters

The QUIN Challenge is a strategic initiative that:

• Lays the foundation for a national quantum network

• Strengthens Canada’s quantum ecosystem

• Enables seamless quantum communication across multiple platforms

• Supports commercialization and technological sovereignty in quantum technologies

How to Apply / Submission Process

1. Prepare Proposal

   • Detail research objectives and relevance to quantum networking

   • Identify collaborators, including NRC researchers if applicable

   • Provide a detailed budget and timeline

2. Submission

   • Submit through the NRC designated portal within the specified timeframe

   • Ensure all required documents and templates are completed

3. Evaluation

   • Proposals are reviewed for technical merit, scalability, and alignment with program priorities

   • Selected projects receive funding and ongoing support from NRC

Tips for Applicants

• Clearly articulate quantum network applications and integration potential

• Demonstrate collaboration and cross-disciplinary impact

• Include risk assessment and mitigation strategies for technical challenges

• Ensure budgets align with eligible costs and are fully justified

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Who can submit proposals?
   Academic institutions, research organizations, not-for-profits, and Canadian SMEs engaged in quantum technologies.

2. Can early-stage research be funded?
   Yes, but it must show clear downstream benefits for quantum networking applications.

3. What is the maximum funding per project?
   Up to $500,000 over three years.

4. Are collaborations required?
   Collaborations with NRC researchers are strongly encouraged but not mandatory.

5. Which costs are eligible?
   Salaries, consumables, equipment, travel, contractor fees, research support costs, and up to 10% indirect costs.

6. Does the project need to demonstrate a working network?
   Systems and demonstration projects are prioritized, but component-level projects may be considered if they have strong integration potential.

7. What is the program’s broader goal?
   To enable a quantum-enabled Canada with robust, scalable, and interconnected quantum networks that support research and commercial applications.

Conclusion

The QUIN Challenge 2026 provides a strategic funding opportunity for Canadian researchers and organizations to push the boundaries of quantum networking. By supporting collaborative, technology-driven projects, the initiative seeks to establish the building blocks for a national quantum network, strengthening Canada’s leadership in quantum science, innovation, and technology integration.