The French company Pasqal, a world leader in quantum computing based on neutral atoms, has taken a decisive step in its international expansion with the opening of its first quantum computer factory in North America and the sale of a 100-qubit processor to Distriq, Quantum Innovation Zone, solidifying Québec as one of the global epicenters of this emerging technology.
A Strategic Commitment to Lead the Quantum Revolution
The new manufacturing center, located in the Espace Quantique 1 building in Sherbrooke (covering over 4,600 square meters), is Pasqal’s second industrial facility after its headquarters in France. This plant will enable the production of next-generation quantum processors to meet the growing demand in the North American market and positions Québec on the global quantum economy map.
The opening is part of a strategic plan launched in 2023, backed by a CAD 15 million loan from Investissement Québec. Thanks to this boost and continued investment, Pasqal is solidifying its status as one of the largest quantum computing companies operating in Canada.
A 100-Qubit Quantum Computer for the Québec Ecosystem
Coinciding with the factory’s inauguration, Pasqal has completed the sale of a 100-qubit quantum processing unit (QPU) to Distriq, the quantum innovation zone in Sherbrooke. The computer will be fully manufactured at the new facility and installed in the city, facilitating access to quantum resources for both researchers and the local and national industry.
The acquisition of this system was made possible through joint financing: a CAD 9.6 million loan from the Québec Ministry of Economy, Innovation, and Energy (MEIE) along with Investissement Québec, CAD 2.4 million from the National Bank of Canada, and CAD 1.2 million contributed by Canada Economic Development for Québec Regions (CED).
According to Wasiq Bokhari, CEO of Pasqal, “the opening of our first factory in North America and the sale of another QPU to an innovation zone is a clear signal that quantum computing is already a reality, not just a future promise. We are proud to partner with Québec to make it a global benchmark for quantum innovation.”
For his part, Mehdi Bozzo-Rey, Vice President of Growth and Alliances at Distriq, emphasizes that “the acquisition of this quantum computer marks a milestone in providing cutting-edge technology to Québec and accelerating the development of an ecosystem focused on industrial applications.”
Boosting Research, Industry, and Collaboration
The new quantum processor will be key to developing algorithms and solutions in sectors such as healthcare, energy, logistics, advanced materials, and finance. It will enable researchers and companies to tackle complex computational challenges, optimize processes, and propel artificial intelligence, opening the door to real experimentation on industrial quantum systems.
With the support of Distriq and Pasqal, Québec aims to establish itself as an international hub for training, attracting talent, and creating cutting-edge companies, contributing to a vibrant and sustainable quantum economy.
Pasqal and Distriq: Leaders of the Quantum Ecosystem
Founded in 2019 as a spin-off from the Institut d’Optique in France, Pasqal is a leader in manufacturing scalable, energy-efficient quantum processors that can operate at room temperature. Its systems are designed to integrate into hybrid workflows among quantum, classical computing, and artificial intelligence, addressing real-use cases across multiple industries. The company collaborates with major supercomputing centers and businesses worldwide.
Distriq, Quantum Innovation Zone, has acted as a catalyst for Québec’s quantum ecosystem since 2022. Its goal is to accelerate the development of an internationally recognized environment that trains and attracts talent, fosters the arrival of companies, and promotes technology transfer.
Canada Accelerates its Quantum Transition
The opening of Pasqal’s factory and the implementation of the new quantum processor in Sherbrooke represent a significant milestone in Canada’s transition to industrial and applied quantum computing. This advancement, the result of public-private collaboration, strengthens Québec’s strategic role and lays the groundwork for North America to play a leading role in the global race for quantum dominance.
Source: pasqal.com