in effect
Executive Order 14413, signed June 22, 2026, directs the federal government to take coordinated action to advance U.S. leadership in quantum information science and technology (QIST). It assigns specific tasks and deadlines to multiple cabinet departments and agencies, ranging from building a large-scale quantum computer to protecting quantum research from foreign threats.
A new national effort called QC-ADDS (Quantum Computer for Application Development and Discovery Science) is established, with the goal of delivering at least one large-scale quantum computer to a Department of Energy facility within a defined timeline; technical specifications must be publicly released within 90 days. The Departments of Energy and Commerce must explore private-sector partnerships and advance market commitments to help fund that computer within 180 days. A national center to benchmark and assess quantum computing performance must be created within 180 days. The FBI’s Quantum Counterintelligence Protection Team (QCPT) is directed to expand its staffing and coordinate threat information with industry and academia. Federal agencies must each submit alignment plans within 30 days of an updated National Quantum Strategy, which itself must be completed within 180 days.
U.S. quantum computing and quantum technology companies stand to gain from new government purchasing commitments, market access support, and reduced trade barriers abroad. Universities, national laboratories, and researchers will have expanded access to government quantum facilities, new workforce development institutes, and additional grant funding for user facilities. Federal employees in QIST roles may see new special pay rates and recruitment incentives, while the broader scientific community gains potential access to a government-funded large-scale quantum computer.