On September 23, 2025, the White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB) and Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) issued memorandum M-25-34 (NSTM-2) outlining the administration’s research and development budget priorities for fiscal year 2027. Quantum information science and technology was listed among the top-priority critical and emerging technologies alongside artificial intelligence, semiconductors, advanced communications networks, and advanced manufacturing.
According to Nextgov/FCW reporting, the memo was issued by OMB Director Russell Vought and OSTP Director Michael Kratsios and identified five R&D priority fields for the executive branch. The memo directed agencies to deepen focused efforts, such as centers and core programs, to advance basic quantum information science while also prioritizing R&D that expands understanding of end-user applications and supports the maturation of enabling technologies.
Specific quantum-related directives in the memo included developing consortia to support pre-competitive R&D, investing in testbeds and other critical infrastructure, boosting efforts to manufacture next-generation quantum devices, and increasing funding for related basic and applied materials research and mathematical and physical sciences. The memo also tied quantum science to national security, mandating preparation for post-quantum cryptography and building resilience against future quantum-enabled attacks.
The memo was intended to guide federal agencies as they prepared their FY2027 budget submissions, though Congress ultimately sets appropriations levels. The annual R&D priorities memorandum signals to agencies what the White House considers worthy of increased investment.