Quantum Tech Startups Partner on Manufacturing, Energy Sector Solutions

Quantum technology companies Jij Inc. and ORCA Computing have formed a strategic partnership, under which Jij will develop algorithms to maximize the capabilities of ORCA’s photonic quantum computers. Anticipated applications include logistics delivery planning, power supply and demand planning in the energy sector, and manufacturing production schedule optimization where the capabilities of traditional computing methods are challenged.

This partnership combines the system and architecture expertise of ORCA Computing with Jij`s extensive knowledge gained through developing unique algorithms across various industries, including energy, manufacturing, transportation, communications, materials development, and construction, the partners said.

(From left) Oscar Hard from the British Embassy, Hiroshi Nakata from Jij, Per Nyberg from ORCA Computing, and Phillip White from the U.K. Government's Department for Business and Trade at the U.K. National Technology Showcase 2024. Courtesy of Jij.

Moving forward, Jij said, it will strengthen its joint R&D and business collaboration with ORCA Computing and will expand into overseas markets through its U.K. subsidiary. The company said that it plans to establish the subsidiary next year. Jij joined the European Quantum Industry Consortium as an affiliate in October, and has participated as part of the Japanese delegation in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) U.K. Quantum Programs hosted by the U.K. Department for Business and Trade, the company said.

ORCA is a 2019 spinout of the University of Oxford, cofounded by chairman Ian Walmsley, provost and chair of Imperial College London’s experimental physics department, and other quantum sector technology leaders. ORCA acquired the Integrated Photonics Division of GXC, a provider of private cellular network solutions, earlier this year. The company also landed contracts with the U.K. Quantum Testbed and Eurostars this year, along with a partnership with NVIDIA and established a research consortium with Toshiba Europe, Bay Photonics, Imperial College London, and University College London.