SMEs often view quantum technologies such as quantum computing as a distant science fiction concept, but the race to integrate it into supply chains and logistics is already happening. So the key question is: What problems can quantum technologies actually solve for my company? Or how can our company supply the emerging quantum industry?
This was at the centre of the panel discussion “Quantum for SMEs & Family-Owned Companies”, organised by ALPHAZIRKEL and hosted by UnternehmerTUM, where QBN CEO Johannes Verst together with QBN member 42de GmbH joined managing directors and investors to discuss when and how small and medium-sized companies (SMEs) should approach the hyped topic “quantum”.
The addressable quantum market is projected to reach €9 billion by 2030, while quantum technologies are expected to generate up to €800 billion in global economic value by 2040. These figures underline why more and more businesses are beginning to assess potential risks and opportunities, means what position they can aim to benefit as a supplier and where quantum could help tackle technical or operational pain points.
Why SMEs Should Act Today
Preparing for quantum does not require major investments or immediate access to specialised hardware. Instead, the next 12 months should be defined by identifying where technology can solve real technological or business challenges.
However, navigating this landscape can be complex. As the central industry network in Germany, QBN acts as a single point of contact, bridging the gap by connecting businesses directly with member organisations that possess the specialised software, hardware, and integration expertise required to launch e.g. pilot projects.
- The User Perspective: The Learning Curve Starts Today
Future quantum applications in logistics, manufacturing, scheduling, simulation and materials development will require far more than purchasing software once it becomes commercially available. Integrating quantum into business processes starts with understanding your own data, workflows and optimisation challenges. The learning curve is steep, making early preparation a strategic advantage rather than a technological exercise.
2. The Supplier Perspective: Value Chains Are Being Built Now
From lasers and cryogenic systems to control electronics and enabling technologies, global quantum supply chains are taking shape today. Strategic partnerships are already being established, creating long-term opportunities for companies that engage early rather than trying to catch up later.
3. The Security Perspective: “Store Now, Decrypt Later” Is a Real Threat
Quantum computers will eventually break today’s encryption methods. Adversaries are already stealing sensitive company data and intellectual property to decrypt it once sufficiently powerful quantum computers become available. Beginning the transition to Post-Quantum Cryptography should therefore become part of every organisation’s long-term cybersecurity strategy.
How Can SMEs Get Started?
Preparing for quantum does not require major investments or immediate access to specialised hardware. For most businesses, the next 12 months will be defined by how quickly they begin understanding where quantum can create value within their own organisation.
A practical starting point is to:
- Pinpoint your most complex optimization, scheduling, simulation or other computational challenges before looking at the technology.
- Instead of searching the market, leverage the QBN network to tap into members with proven capabilities in quantum software development, hardware access, and systems integration.
- Collaborate with specialized ecosystem partners to design highly targeted pilot projects, using cloud-based access to test applications without heavy upfront infrastructure costs.
The Competitive Advantage Starts Today
The companies that will benefit most from quantum will not necessarily be those investing the most capital today, but those building the strongest strategic readiness.
As Germany’s central quantum industry network, QBN serves as the one-stop shop for businesses entering the quantum economy, simplifying navigation, matching business needs to technical solutions, and fostering cross-industry collaboration. Through this collaborative ecosystem, SMEs gain direct, frictionless access to the cutting-edge capabilities of QBN members, who provide the practical expertise, technology, and integration power to turn theoretical quantum advantage into real-world business value.
Quantum readiness begins with knowing which technological and business problems you cannot afford to ignore, and knowing the ecosystem that can help you solve them.
