The MadQuantum-CM project was awarded the Best Public Project to Support Digitalization in the D+I Innovation Awards 2023

October 24, 2023. The MadQuantum-CM project, with the objective of expanding MadQCI, Europe’s largest quantum communications network in the Community of Madrid, was honored with the Best Public Project to Support Digitalization award. The event took place on Thursday, October 19th, at Espacio Bernabeu La Salle by Eneldo, as part of the third edition of the D+I Innovation Awards 2023, organized by El Español. 

Quantum computing and quantum communications hold the potential to usher in a paradigm shift in computer networks. From a societal perspective, they are poised to make a significant impact as they enable the creation of highly secure data transmission networks. The project involves the participation of IMDEA Networks, a founding member of 5TONIC, along with six other partners, including the National Institute of Aerospace Technology, Spanish Metrology Center, Vithas Foundation, University Autónoma of Madrid, University Politécnica of Madrid (that coordinates the project), and University Complutense of Madrid.

5TONIC, the open research and innovation laboratory established by Telefónica and IMDEA Networks, is actively contributing to the project by hosting laboratory testbeds and demonstrations that illustrate the potential of quantum networks and communications. As Ignacio Berberana, Technical Coordinator at 5TONIC and Senior Research Engineer at IMDEA Networks Institute, points out, «Two areas to be explored in this project include the application of quantum cryptography and quantum communications to support emerging networks, such as future 6G networks.»

Arturo Azcorra, one of the founders of 5TONIC, Director of IMDEA Networks, and a full professor at the University Carlos III of Madrid, expressed his delight, saying, «I am thrilled that this cutting-edge project, aimed at expanding MadQCI, the new quantum communications network in the Community of Madrid and the largest in Europe, has been chosen as the winner in its category. This recognition is truly significant.»

The MadQuantum-CM project is a joint effort involving the Community of Madrid, the Spanish State through the Plan for Recovery, Transformation, and Resilience, and the European Union through the NextGeneration EU funds. Its objectives include establishing a top-tier security network to safeguard information transmitted through the MadQCI network and exploring the development of high-precision measurements and communications between quantum computers, among other technologies.

The event served as a gathering for the technology industry, the startup ecosystem, and the research community in Spain and Latin America. Notable attendees included Ana Ramírez de Molina, Vice-Minister of Universities, Research, and Science of the Community of Madrid, and Laura Ortiz, Technical Secretary of the MadQuantum-CM coordination team, who were responsible for accepting the award.