Since 2021, the Netherlands has been strengthening its national quantum ecosystem through Quantum Delta NL. Around five hubs, in Delft, Eindhoven, Leiden, Twente, and Amsterdam, research, talent, entrepreneurship, and manufacturing capacity come together. With support from the National Growth Fund, the Netherlands is positioning itself as an international center and hub for quantum technology; the current momentum will last until the end of 2028.
State of Quantum
The data update shared today shows that the ecosystem has rapidly increased in size and maturity. In 2025, Dutch quantum startups counted 735 jobs, of which about 400 were in Delft; that is more than four times as many as in 2020. The number of startups grew to 29 over five years, and private investments increased by 1,600 percent during the same period, from €10 million to €160 million. Innovation power is also accelerating: the number of quantum-related patent applications rose from 11 in 2020 to 60 in 2025. Recent Series A rounds at companies such as QuantWare, Qblox, QuiX, and Orange Quantum Systems underscore that international investors are finding their way to the Netherlands.
The first applications are now emerging. In the Port of Rotterdam, a quantum-secure QKD connection is operating as part of a scalable multi-user network for critical communication. In healthcare, quantum sensors are being used for sharper MRI research. Additionally, quantum random numbers enhance the security of mobile phones. Together, these examples show that the transition from lab to factory is in sight.
Global race demands speed
At the same time, international competition is fierce. China is making large-scale public investments; the United States relies on strong private power with technology companies like Google, IBM, Microsoft, and Nvidia; and Europe is also joining forces. By around 2035, the global market value of quantum computers, networks, and sensors could grow to approximately $97 billion according to McKinsey. Those who move quickly now will determine future supply chains, exports, and high-quality employment. For this reason, Quantum Delta NL advocates for follow-up funding after 2028, so that Dutch companies can scale up and the lead is anchored in production, export, and strategic autonomy.
'We face a simple choice: watch others determine the future, or build it here with our people, companies, and facilities,' says Philippe Bouyer, chairman of Quantum Delta NL. "In the coming years, we must convert knowledge into production, export, and strategic autonomy. This requires predictable, long-term investments in talent, manufacturing capacity, and the transition from lab to factory.'
According to Niels Bultink, CEO of Qblox, the potential is great: 'The Netherlands has the opportunity to create dozens of "ASML moments" in the quantum chain in the coming decades, provided that capital and regulations scale up with ambitions.'
