With the world’s rapid technological advancement, quantum technologies stand as innovations with the potential to reshape industries and address global challenges. The Saudi Center for the Fourth Industrial Revolution, in collaboration with KAUST and the World Economic Forum (WEF), has launched the “Quantum for Society” Challenge, an initiative aimed at harnessing quantum technologies to advance the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
This global competition is part of WEF’s UpLink open innovation platform and the Quantum Economy Network, encouraging innovators to propose solutions from early-stage startups that leverage quantum technologies — spanning sensing, communication, and computing — to tackle critical issues in areas such as climate change, materials and manufacturing, healthcare equity, agriculture, and freshwater systems. KAUST, a listed “quantum ecosystem partner”, plays a key role in inspiring local and regional participation, and although quantum computing is an emerging field not yet represented at KAUST, this initiative aligns with ongoing efforts to cultivate expertise in response to rising student interest.
The solutions provided from this challenge directly contribute to the SDGs by advancing, for instance, SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, through enhanced industrial efficiency and innovative materials design; and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, by fostering global collaboration.
Winners of the challenge will join a dynamic network of business partners dedicated to scaling purpose-driven startups. They will gain access to global events, projects, communities, and exclusive visibility opportunities, helping them turn transformative ideas into impactful, scalable solutions. This is a unique opportunity for innovators to be part of a global ecosystem driving change and, with its role as a Quantum Ecosystems partner, KAUST is proud to represent the Kingdom in such endeavors.
The call for submissions is open until December 13, 2024, with an evaluation period to follow. Innovators are encouraged to seize this chance to contribute to the future of quantum technologies. To learn more and submit your application, visit the Quantum for Society Challenge page.
