NRC Quantum Internetworking Challenge (QUIN)

Insider Tip

QUIN is one of three parallel NRC quantum challenge programs (alongside IoT Quantum Sensors and Applied Quantum Computing) and they deliberately cover different technical domains. If your technology spans quantum networking AND sensing, check whether QUIN or the IoT Quantum Sensors Challenge is the better primary fit — NRC may guide you to the most appropriate program. The collaborative model means NRC researchers work alongside your team, so organizations with lab facilities or test infrastructure that NRC can use in return are particularly attractive partners. Email the program team before attempting any formal application.

Success Profile

A Canadian photonics company, quantum device manufacturer, or university spinout with TRL 2–5 in quantum networking components (sources, detectors, repeaters, memories), seeking access to NRC's world-class quantum lab infrastructure and research expertise to advance toward demonstration-scale quantum networks. Strong candidates have existing IP in quantum hardware and can contribute specialized equipment or materials to the collaboration.

Evaluation Criteria

NRC selects partners based on: (1) Technical complementarity — does the partner's expertise advance QUIN's photonic/superconducting/semiconductor quantum networking agenda; (2) Research quality and team credentials in quantum networking; (3) Ability to contribute resources (facilities, equipment, personnel) that NRC cannot provide internally; (4) Alignment with Canada's National Quantum Strategy missions; (5) Realistic path to quantum network commercialization or deployment in Canada.

Application Steps

Required Documents 5

Eligible Expenses 8

• Salaries for quantum research personnel assigned to the project
• Quantum materials and components for device fabrication
• Specialized test and measurement equipment
• Cryogenic and photonic lab supplies
• Subcontractor fees for specialized quantum fabrication services
• Travel for NRC collaboration and network demonstrations
• IP protection and patent filing costs
• Knowledge mobilization and publication activities

Ineligible Expenses 5

• General overhead not tied to the specific project
• Commercial product manufacturing at scale
• Marketing and sales activities
• Activities completed before the collaboration agreement is signed
• Costs duplicated with other NRC or federal funding on the same project

Intake Periods

Ongoing from 2026 through 2033. First collaborative call launched early 2026. No fixed intake windows — contact NRC to discuss collaboration opportunities at any time.

Deadline Notes

The QUIN program launched in 2026 and will run until 2033 as a multi-year collaborative initiative. The first call for industry and academic collaborators was open as of early 2026. Collaboration opportunities are ongoing — contact the program team at NRC.QuantumInternetworking-Interreseautagequantique.CNRC@nrc-cnrc.gc.ca to express interest. Specific calls or deadlines for new cohorts have not been published on the website; interested organizations should contact NRC directly.

Ineligible Organizations

• Organizations with no demonstrated quantum networking expertise
• Foreign-controlled entities without a Canadian R&D presence

Compatible Programs

Clawback Risk

Low Risk

NRC collaborative R&D contributions are subject to standard clawback provisions if project milestones are not met or if the partner fails to maintain a Canadian R&D presence during the agreement term.