Jobs and Economic Growth
Summary
- Government is investing in research infrastructure upgrades at the University of Victoria (UVic), supporting breakthroughs in quantum computing
- This is part of the Province’s $1.9-million investment in UVic's research infrastructure supporting life sciences, natural resources and clean tech
- This work is part of the Province’s Look West strategy, which aims to grow targeted sectors, including technology, AI and quantum, and life science
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As part of Look West’s goal to strengthen B.C.’s economy by growing key sectors, the Province is investing in research infrastructure to advance quantum computing.
"British Columbia has been at the forefront of commercial quantum computing and remains a global leader in the field,” said Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Jobs and Economic Growth. “Building a resilient B.C. economy means investing in next-generation technologies, like quantum computing. Through the B.C. Knowledge Development Fund, we're equipping UVic researchers and students with the infrastructure to advance quantum technologies, partner with industry, and build rewarding careers right here at home."
As part of a $1.9-million investment in UVic’s research infrastructure, the Province is providing more than $90,000 for quantum computing research equipment at the university. The funding from the British Columbia Knowledge Development Fund (BCKDF) will help researchers design computers that are capable of solving problems that are beyond the capabilities of the most powerful classical supercomputers, with lower energy use.
Companies collaborating with UVic research teams will also be able to use the equipment to develop and test algorithms for commercial quantum computing applications.
Thomas Baker, professor of physics and chemistry and Canada research chair in quantum computing at UVic, is leading the design of the new research systems.
“Quantum has so much potential to solve real-world problems and to create new knowledge in fundamental science,” Baker said. “Support, such as the BC Knowledge Development Fund, is helping to feed the growing interest and activity in quantum fields among researchers, students and industry.”
Quantum computing
Quantum technology has significant potential to transform sectors, such as cybersecurity, mining, communications, health care, biotechnology, finance and transportation. With roots in early commercial quantum computing, British Columbia remains a global leader in the field.
Breakthroughs in quantum computing can help solve complex industry challenges, enhance cybersecurity and strengthen B.C.’s position in the global technology economy.
“Investing in Canadian quantum research is key to a stronger, more innovative future with real economic opportunities for homegrown talent,” said Rick Glumac, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence. “These investments bring researchers, industry, communities and governments together to solve big challenges. This is what our Look West strategy is all about: growing the industries that will define tomorrow, creating meaningful, high-quality jobs in B.C., and ensuring we continue to lead and compete in North America’s rapidly evolving tech economy."
Skills training
Students working on Baker’s research will gain hands-on skills to prepare them as the next generation of innovators and entrepreneurs. This aligns with Look West’s goal of building talent to meet industry needs and grow B.C.’s economy.
“B.C. is investing in breakthrough research like quantum and AI to fuel the next wave of good jobs and economic growth,” said Jessie Sunner, Minister of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills. “This research aligns with our government’s Look West strategy and will deliver practical solutions in cybersecurity, health care, agriculture, and defence.”
Supporting research in key sectors
This is one of 10 UVic research infrastructure projects supported through the Province’s $1.9-million investment. The remaining BCKDF-supported projects range from life‑saving health research, to clean‑tech innovation, climate and ecosystem science, advanced manufacturing and Earth‑observation technologies.
Look West economic plan
This work is part of the Province’s Look West strategy, which outlines B.C.’s vision to deliver jobs and opportunities by strengthening the workforce to develop a more independent economy. This includes delivering major projects quicker, diversifying markets and growing targeted sectors, such as technology, aerospace, marine, AI and quantum, life sciences, agriculture and construction innovation.
Quotes:
Lisa Kalynchuk, vice-president of research and innovation, UVic –
“As a major research university, UVic serves as a convening hub across government, industry, and Indigenous and community partners. This investment helps our internationally recognized researchers continue to lead in their fields and advances the university’s vision of creating a better world through engagement and innovation.”
Lisa Lambert, CEO, Quantum Industry Canada –
“Quantum leadership is built through sustained investment in people, collaboration and infrastructure. This initiative reinforces B.C.’s ability to turn ingenuity into practical solutions that advance science and benefit society.”
Quick Facts:
- The BCKDF, established in 1998, is government’s primary investment in research infrastructure in B.C.
- Since 2017, the BCKDF has awarded nearly $367 million for 618 projects.
- Funding is available for research equipment and facilities at public post-secondary institutions and their affiliated research hospitals and non-profit organizations.
Learn More:
- To learn more about the B.C. Knowledge Development Fund, visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/governments/technology-innovation/bckdf
- To read more about the Look West: Jobs and Prosperity for a Stronger B.C. and Canada strategy, visit: https://gov.bc.ca/LookWest
- Learn about the other ways the Province is building a stronger B.C. economy here: https://gov.bc.ca/StrongEconomy
A backgrounder follows.
