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18 Jun 2025
£25M investment by quantum computing developer expected to create more than 30 jobs.
Photonic, the Canadian startup working to develop quantum computers based around optically linked silicon spin qubits, says it is planning to open a new research site in the UK.
While no specific locations or other details are forthcoming, the company is aiming to invest £25 million and create more than 30 jobs at some point over the next three years.
Quantum missions
Photonic founder and “chief quantum officer” Stephanie Simmons, who completed a PhD in quantum technology at the UK’s University of Oxford before establishing the startup in 2016, said in a company release:
“Our expansion into the UK is a win-win - strengthening our ability to scale globally while reinforcing Canada’s position as a leader in secure, scalable quantum technologies.
“Ever since earning my doctorate in quantum computing at the University of Oxford, I’ve admired the UK’s trailblazing approach to quantum. I am really excited by the ambition laid out in the next phase of the UK Government’s National Quantum Strategy, and we are looking forward to supporting the government in delivery of its Quantum Missions.
“Quantum has enormous potential to drive societal impact and economic growth - and Photonic is committed to unleashing that potential through deep, collaborative partnerships between our two countries.”
UK Science Minister Lord Vallance added: “Photonic’s decision to expand their presence in the UK is a clear vote of confidence in the UK's fast-growing quantum sector, which is leading advances on everything from sensing for healthcare to quantum computing.
“This £25 million investment will create jobs and generate economic growth, while deepening collaboration between the UK and Canada on this vital technology.”
Secure transatlantic link
Simmons met UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer during his visit to Canada for the G7 summit, which included an announcement of wider collaboration between the two countries on trade, science, technology, and innovation.
According to a joint statement from Starmer and Canadian PM Mark Carney that will include industrial research and development projects on semiconductors, photonics, emerging materials, and chip design.
On quantum technologies, there is a joint commitment to develop secure transatlantic communications, seen as “laying the groundwork” for a global next-generation network with applications in the financial and telecom sectors.
Other key areas of collaboration include fusion energy, critical minerals, AI, and biomanufacturing - including a £15 million joint commitment to support biomanufacturing research.
Canada’s Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation, Evan Solomon, said that the planned Photonic expansion reflected a shared ambition to build a trusted transatlantic quantum future, adding:
“We’re proud to support Photonic as it scales internationally while anchored in Canada - creating jobs, advancing the commercialization of quantum technology, and strengthening Canada’s quantum leadership.”
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