NSF Quantum Science and Technology Demonstrations (QSTD)

FUNDING OPPORTUNITY NUMBER: NSF 24-586: NSF National Quantum Virtual Laboratory – Quantum Testbeds (NQVL)

OPPORTUNITY:

The National Quantum Initiative (NQI) Act1 aims to ensure the continuing leadership of the United States (U.S.) in quantum information science and technology with a renewed emphasis on identifying and fostering early adoption of quantum technologies to transform the field of Quantum Information Science and Engineering (QISE) and to accelerate broader impacts on society. A systematic approach to maturing quantum technology platforms by integrating end-users and potential customers from other fields of science and engineering and other sectors of the economy into cycles of research, development, and demonstration should lower the barriers for end-users to pioneer new applications. NSF support for use-inspired and translational research in QISE, combined with continued strong support of the underlying foundational research, is anticipated to accelerate development of a market for quantum technologies.

DESCRIPTION:

This solicitation pertains to the Design and Implementation development phases of the QSTD projects part of the National Quantum Virtual Laboratory (NQVL) program. With this program solicitation, the Foundation is taking the next step in implementing the (NQVL) concept as an overarching shared infrastructure designed to facilitate the translation from basic science and engineering to the resultant technology, while at the same time emphasizing and advancing its scientific and technical value. The NQVL aims to develop and utilize use-inspired and application-oriented quantum technologies. In the process, NQVL researchers will explore quantum frontiers, foster the development of QISE education and workforce development strategies, engage in outreach activities at all levels, and promote input and participation from the full spectrum of diverse talent in QISE, thereby lowering barriers at all entry points of the research enterprise. Engagement with all sectors of the United States QISE community will be necessary for this initiative to succeed, and, indeed, the project is designed to include participation from a full spectrum of organizations who have expertise to contribute. NSF recognizes that the involvement of industry partners is essential and will welcome these to be a part of the overall structure. Partnerships with other U.S. Federal agencies under the NQI umbrella are also encouraged.

Applicable Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) Number(s):

• 47.041 — Engineering
• 47.049 — Mathematical and Physical Sciences
• 47.070 — Computer and Information Science and Engineering
• 47.074 — Biological Sciences
• 47.076 — STEM Education
• 47.084 — NSF Technology, Innovation and Partnerships

ELIGIBILE APPLICANTS:  

• Submission of a QSTD:
  • Design proposal is contingent upon the existence of a QSTD: Pilot project in the same topical area, and the positive recommendation from the Conceptual Design Review of the QSTD: Pilot project.
• Submission of a QSTD:
  • Implementation proposal is contingent upon the existence of a QSTD: Design project in the same topical area, and the positive recommendation from the Preliminary Design Review of the QSTD: Design project.

MATCHING FUNDS: Inclusion of voluntary committed cost sharing is prohibited.

FUNDING AVAILABLE: 

• $32 million for design awards: Funding for the Implementation Phase will depend on progress made by the NQVL: QSTD teams and the availability of funds appropriated by Congress.
• Maximum Award:
  • Design Phase: $2 million per year for up to two years
  • Implementation Phase: $10 million per year for six years.

APPLICATION DEADLINE: 

• QSTR: Design:
  • April 01, 2025; April 07, 2026; April 06, 2027
• QSTR Implementation:
  • April 04, 2026; April 06, 2027; April 04 ,2028