Paris, France — Pasqal, a global leader in neutral-atom quantum computing, has announced the launch of its second “Blaise Pasqal Quantum Challenge” Hackathon, inviting participants from across the globe to leverage quantum AI in addressing critical sustainability challenges. The competition, which kicks off later this year, culminates in April 2025 with an award ceremony, where the first-place winner will receive a prize of €15,000 (approximately $19,100).

Quantum AI for a Sustainable Future

Pasqal’s annual hackathon, now in its second edition, aims to explore innovative solutions aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Open to students, startups, developers, researchers, and industry leaders, the challenge seeks groundbreaking quantum AI use cases that drive sustainability and deliver real-world impact.

Georges-Olivier Reymond, CEO and Co-founder of Pasqal, emphasized the transformative power of quantum AI, stating:
“Quantum computing can process complex calculations at speeds far beyond traditional methods. When paired with AI’s predictive capabilities, we can uncover insights and solutions at a transformative scale. By equipping the brightest minds with our technology and expert mentors, we aim to solve some of the world’s most pressing sustainability challenges.”

Key Focus Areas

Participants will work on quantum-enhanced AI solutions across three primary domains:

1. Transforming Energy Systems
   Quantum AI algorithms can optimize energy grids, integrate renewable sources more effectively, and reduce energy waste, contributing to decarbonization and global energy resilience.
2. Maximizing Resource Efficiency
   Quantum-driven insights can enable precise management of resources like water, soil, and raw materials, ensuring sustainability in industries such as agriculture, manufacturing, and urban planning.
3. Accelerating Sustainable Healthcare Innovation
   Quantum computing can expedite drug discovery processes, drastically cutting down research time and reducing environmental footprints. This approach promotes sustainable healthcare by minimizing resource use and emissions in pharmaceutical development.

The Hackathon Structure

The global competition will unfold in two key phases:

• Phase 1: Over eight weeks, participants will gain access to a dedicated platform to submit ideas and form teams. Pasqal will host virtual masterclasses led by technical experts and mentors from industry giants, including Capgemini, Sumitomo, Genci, and TCS, to inspire and guide participants.
• Phase 2: In February 2025, the top 15 teams will be selected to participate in an intensive, two-week virtual hackathon, where they will further develop their solutions.

At the conclusion of the challenge, a panel of distinguished jurors will evaluate the projects based on their innovation, feasibility, and sustainability impact. Jurors include:

• Georges-Olivier Reymond, CEO and Co-founder of Pasqal
• Eun-Ah Kim, Research Fellow at the National Assembly Futures Institute
• Jayne Thompson, Institute of High-Performance Computing, A*STAR
• Etienne de Rocquigny, CEO and Founder of Blaise Pascal Advisors
• Kristel Michielsen, Jülich Supercomputing Centre

Why This Matters

Pasqal’s initiative highlights the growing intersection of quantum computing and AI as a force for tackling global sustainability challenges. With quantum technology capable of processing immense datasets at unprecedented speeds, solutions developed in the hackathon could drive innovations in energy systems, resource management, and healthcare.

About Pasqal

Founded in 2019, Pasqal is a pioneer in building quantum processors using ordered neutral atoms in 2D and 3D arrays. The company’s mission is to deliver practical quantum advantage for real-world challenges, and it has secured over €140 million in funding to date.

For more details on the Blaise Pasqal Quantum Challenge Hackathon and registration information, visit www.pasqal.com.