In late 2022, leading Latvian scientists and academics from the University of Latvia, Riga Technical University, the Institute of Solid State Physics of the University of Latvia (ISSP UL), and the Institute of Mathematics and Computer Science of the University of Latvia established the Latvian Quantum Initiative. Hosted at the University of Latvia, the initiative was created to oversee and coordinate quantum technology activities in the country and to represent Latvian industry interests in European quantum technology networks.
According to the Ministry of Education and Science, investments from the EU Recovery Fund and the state budget amounting to more than €6 million ($6.5 million) were directed toward developing quantum technology skills through the initiative. Research and education activities focused on three thematic areas: quantum algorithms and software, quantum sensors and devices, and quantum communication and communication security.
Educational components included new study modules in quantum computing theory, quantum programming, physics of quantum technologies, and quantum communication technologies. Both students and industry specialists were targeted for training. Professor Andris Ambainis and Professor Vjačeslavs Kaščejevs served as the initiative’s most prominent leaders.