University of Maryland Hosts Capital of Quantum Startup Symposium to Accelerate Quantum Innovation
Media Relations mediainfo@umd.edu
Left to right: Moderator Dan Kunitz with panelists Ronald Walsworth; Nate Roberts; John Beieler; Walter Gonzales; Thomas Kramer; and Harry Coker Jr.
COLLEGE PARK, Md. – The University of Maryland (UMD) convened leading voices in technology, government and entrepreneurship today for the Capital of Quantum Startup Symposium, spotlighting Maryland’s role as a national and international hub for quantum innovation.
Held in the Anacostia Building (formerly the American Center for Physics) in the heart of the university’s Discovery District, the event was hosted by the UMD I-Corps program. As the lead institution for one of only 13 National Science Foundation I-Corps Hubs nationwide, the program equips researchers with real-world tools to translate scientific discovery into market-ready solutions that address global challenges.
The symposium is part of the inaugural quantum and national security UMD I-Corps workshop for entrepreneurs developing quantum commercial solutions. Fifteen startup teams made up of faculty, researchers, students and regional entrepreneurs are currently in the workshop developing quantum-focused solutions in areas such as cybersecurity, healthcare, life sciences, government, defense, aerospace, nanotechnology, IT, imaging and education.
“Building upon over 30 years of quantum research at the University of Maryland, [we] provide the ideal location and ecosystem to drive new advancements in quantum,” said UMD Vice President for Research Gregory F. Ball. “Our efforts are not only focused on research and education, but also on innovation and commercialization.”
Maryland Secretary of Commerce Harry Coker, Jr. delivered keynote remarks, highlighting a $40 million investment in the state’s 2026 fiscal year budget aimed at establishing Maryland as the “Capital of Quantum,” including millions in support directed toward UMD’s growing quantum ecosystem.
“Maryland won’t just adapt to the quantum era—we will help define it,” said Maryland Commerce Secretary Harry Coker, Jr. “With its highly-skilled cyber and tech workforce, its research infrastructure like the labs and resources here at UMD, and its federal and military partners, Maryland will be on the cutting-edge of developing new tools and systems. So, for entrepreneurs and investors, Maryland is the place to be.”
In addition to Secretary Coker’s remarks, a panel discussion featured Secretary Coker; Walt Gonzales, Deputy Chief of Staff for U.S. Representative Glenn Ivey; UMD Professor and Quantum Technology Center Founding Director Ronald Walsworth; John Beieler, Executive Director of UMD’s Applied Research Laboratory for Intelligence and Security; Thomas Kramer, Chief Financial Officer of IonQ; and Nate Roberts, Vice President of Technology at In-Q-Tel.
Panelists explored the national security implications of quantum technologies, the need for cross-sector collaboration, and Maryland’s unique potential to support entrepreneurs through a deep bench of researchers, investors, and innovation infrastructure.
For more information, visit https://quantum.umd.edu/.
About the University of Maryland
The University of Maryland (UMD) is the state's flagship university driven by a community of more than 50,000 fearless Terrapins. As a leading research university and top 20 public institution, UMD is proud to be part of the Association of American Universities. Dedicated to excellence and impact for the public good, the university is propelled by a $1.4 billion joint research enterprise. UMD is the nation’s first Do Good campus, and is consistently ranked for its innovation, research and top-tier academic programs. Located in the National Capital Region, the university offers an unparalleled student experience with federal internship opportunities, hundreds of academic programs and study abroad options, and top-ranked living-learning programs. Spurred by a culture of innovation and creativity, UMD’s faculty are global leaders in their fields and include Nobel laureates, Pulitzer Prize winners and members of the national academies. For more information about the University of Maryland, College Park, visit umd.edu
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