Quantum computing is no longer a far-off idea. It is happening now. And Finland is leading the way in Europe. With advanced technology, strong research, and international partnerships, Finland is building some of the most advanced quantum computers in the world.
From the first 5-qubit system to Europe’s first 50-qubit computer and upcoming 150- and 300-qubit systems, Finland is moving quickly.
This article explains how Finland became a leader in quantum technology, the key companies involved, the role of supercomputers, and why businesses and researchers should pay attention.
Key Takeaways
- Finland launched Europe’s first 50-qubit quantum computer.
- Key players include IQM, SemiQon, Algorithmiq, Bluefors, and Quanscient.
- 150- and 300-qubit systems will strengthen Finland’s global leadership.
- Integration with supercomputers (LUMI) enhances computing capabilities.
- Finnish startups and the BusinessQ community expand the ecosystem internationally.
- Quantum-safe encryption ensures secure future digital systems.
- Government and EU funding attract talent and accelerate innovation.
The Quantum Era in Finland – An Overview
Quantum computing uses the principles of quantum physics to solve problems that traditional computers cannot. Imagine a maze so complex that even the fastest supercomputer would take centuries to solve. A quantum computer could find the solution in minutes by exploring all paths at the same time.
Finland has invested heavily in quantum technology. Since 2020, the government has provided funding to support research, startups, and international collaboration. The Finnish Quantum Flagship (FQF) program in 2024 added €13 million to attract global talent.
Quantum computers can help in many areas, including medicine, materials science, artificial intelligence, cryptography, and industrial optimisation.
Flagship Quantum Systems in Finland
Finland’s quantum journey is more than just research. It’s about building powerful machines that can solve problems faster than ever. Let’s explore the flagship quantum systems that are putting Finland at the forefront of global quantum computing.
50-Qubit Quantum Computer – Europe’s First
In March 2025, Finland unveiled Europe’s first 50-qubit quantum computer, developed by VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland and IQM Quantum Computers. This system is available to researchers and businesses through the VTT QX quantum computing service.
The 50-qubit computer is part of a phased development:
- 2021: 5-qubit system
- 2023: 20-qubit system
- 2025: 50-qubit system
150- and 300-Qubit Superconducting Systems – The Future of Hardware
Finland is not stopping at 50 qubits. IQM Quantum Computers has partnered with VTT to build larger systems:
- 150-qubit system: Expected by mid-2026
- 300-qubit system: Expected by late-2027
Leading Finnish Quantum Companies and Their Roles
Behind Finland’s quantum success are companies turning research into real-world solutions. Let’s meet the leading Finnish quantum companies driving hardware, software, and infrastructure innovation.
IQM Quantum Computers – Hardware Pioneer
Based in Espoo, Finland, IQM builds superconducting quantum computers and full-stack systems. The company has raised over €200 million and operates in nine countries. IQM is also deploying quantum computers globally, including Japan, Poland, and the United States.
SemiQon – Silicon-Based Quantum Processors
SemiQon is a VTT spin-off developing silicon-based cryogenic CMOS processors. These are more scalable, affordable, and energy-efficient than traditional superconducting systems.
SemiQon secured €17.5 million from the European Innovation Council, allowing it to accelerate global commercialisation. Its technology could also be used for secure satellite communications.
Algorithmiq – Quantum Software and Algorithms
Algorithmiq specialises in quantum algorithms, especially for drug discovery and life sciences. Its Aurora platform, developed with IBM, combines quantum and classical computing for more accurate, scalable solutions.
Algorithmiq raised €13.7 million in 2023 and partnered with NVIDIA in 2025 to integrate supercomputing acceleration into its quantum software.
Bluefors – Cryogenic Infrastructure
Bluefors, headquartered in Helsinki, makes ultra-low temperature cryogenic systems needed to keep qubits stable. Its systems are essential for both research and industrial quantum computers.
Bluefors has expanded globally, including in the USA, and launched a Lab-as-a-Service model, giving companies access to advanced cooling technology without full ownership.
Quanscient – Cloud-Native Quantum Simulation
Quanscient builds a cloud-based quantum simulation platform for engineering. Its platform integrates multiphysics solvers, advanced cloud computing, and quantum algorithms. It allows engineers to run simulations up to 100 times faster than traditional tools.
Quanscient raised €5.2 million in 2024 and became the first company to run Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations on real quantum hardware.
Other Startups and Ecosystem Players
Finland’s BusinessQ community now includes over 25 companies working across the quantum value chain, such as Arctic Instruments and SemiQon spin-offs.
Together, they form a robust quantum ecosystem supporting research, commercial applications, and international collaboration.
Integration with Supercomputers
Quantum computers do not replace traditional supercomputers. Instead, they work together. A quantum computer handles problems suitable for quantum methods, while a supercomputer manages control, interpretation, and classical calculations. This combination creates quantum-accelerated high-performance computing.
In Finland, the LUMI supercomputer and VTT’s Helmi/50-qubit quantum computer were integrated in 2022. This was the first time in Europe that a universal quantum computer connected to a supercomputer was available to researchers. Scientists and businesses can access these systems through proposals submitted to the LUMI supercomputer.
Finland is also involved in international collaborations, including:
- FiQCI: Finnish Quantum Computing Infrastructure
- NordIQuEst: Developing Nordic quantum computing capabilities
- OpenSuperQ+: 28 European partners working on a 1,000-qubit quantum computer
Applications and Industry Impact
Quantum computing in Finland is being applied to:
- Material modelling: Faster and more accurate simulations for new materials.
- Artificial intelligence: Enhanced AI models and optimisation algorithms.
- Drug discovery: Using quantum algorithms to accelerate medicine development.
- Finance and cryptography: More secure and efficient computations.
- Space and satellite communications: Especially with silicon-based technologies like SemiQon.
Conclusion
Finland is emerging as a global leader in quantum computing, combining advanced hardware, software, and infrastructure with strong research and international collaboration. From the 50-qubit breakthrough to the upcoming 150- and 300-qubit systems, Finnish companies and startups are driving innovation across industries.
By integrating quantum computers with supercomputers, advancing quantum-safe encryption, and fostering a vibrant ecosystem, Finland is not just keeping pace with the global quantum race. It is shaping the future of technology. Researchers and businesses now have unique opportunities to explore this quantum frontier.
