On December 11, 2024, the São Paulo Research Foundation (FAPESP) formally launched the Quantum Technologies Initiative (QuTIa) program. With a budget of approximately BRL 31 million (approximately USD 5.2 million) over an initial five-year period, the program aims to accelerate development, train human resources, and strengthen scientific and technological leadership in quantum technologies within São Paulo state and across Brazil.
According to Agência FAPESP, QuTIa also aims to stimulate the creation of startups and attract global investment and talent. Ulisses Rocha, Secretary of Science and Technology for Digital Transformation at MCTI, noted that the launch aligned with federal government initiatives in quantum technologies.
Upcoming steps for QuTIa include a joint call by FAPESP and the Rio de Janeiro Research Foundation (FAPERJ) to fund collaborative quantum research between the two states, selecting up to five proposals with funding of up to BRL 6 million. An additional call for up to three research consortia, each eligible for BRL 10 million, will include defense applications of quantum technologies developed in collaboration with military institutions such as the Army, Navy, and Air Force.