International scientists head into the fast-lane of Denmark’s burgeoning quantum ecosystem
Ambition and international talent converge as Denmark scales up in quantum science The post International scientists head into the fast-lane of Denmark’s burgeoning quantum ecosystem appeared first on Physics World .

International scientists head into the fast-lane of Denmark’s burgeoning quantum ecosystem
Denmark is not just talking about quantum science and innovation, but is actively walking the walk, as its quantum ecosystem continues to grow and thrive. The country has made significant strides in recent years, with more than 75 organizations now actively engaged in the field through the Danish Quantum Community, a network that includes start-ups, scale-ups, technology companies, investors, research institutions, and government agencies. This collaborative effort is driven by a shared national mission to advance quantum science and translate it into innovative technologies.
One of the key drivers of this growth is the 55North venture-capital fund, which was launched in October last year as the world’s largest fund dedicated exclusively to quantum technologies and applications. Based in Copenhagen and backed by the Novo Nordisk Foundation and the Export and Investment Fund of Denmark (EIFO), the fund opened with a capital injection of €134 million, with a target base of €300 million. This substantial investment is aimed at supporting high-growth companies in the nascent quantum supply chain, both within Denmark and beyond.
However, the success of Denmark’s quantum ecosystem is not solely dependent on funding. Workforce development is a critical component of the country’s strategy, as it recognizes the need to scale the “quantum talent pipeline” to translate advances in fundamental science and applied research into next-generation quantum technologies. Danish universities are working closely with industry and government partners to train a skilled and diverse quantum workforce, with the recruitment of international scientists and engineers seen as fundamental to Denmark’s long-term quantum ambitions.
One example of this joined-up thinking in quantum research is Maria Cerdà Sevilla, head of Quantum DTU, the Center for Quantum Technologies at the Technical University of Denmark (DTU). Located in Lyngby, just north of Copenhagen, Quantum DTU coordinates the research activities of around 300 researchers and students, fostering collaboration between academia, industry, and government. The center’s mission is to drive innovation in quantum technologies, with a focus on translating scientific discoveries into commercial applications.
Cerdà Sevilla and her colleagues at Quantum DTU are shaping the trajectory of technology translation and commercial innovation in quantum science. Their work is part of a broader effort to establish Denmark as a global leader in quantum technology, leveraging the country’s strong academic traditions, government support, and thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem.
The Danish Quantum Community’s efforts are not limited to research and development. The community also focuses on building a supportive ecosystem for start-ups and scale-ups, providing access to funding, mentorship, and networking opportunities. This holistic approach ensures that Denmark’s quantum ambitions are not just confined to the lab, but are being translated into real-world applications that can drive economic growth and create new industries.
In conclusion, Denmark’s burgeoning quantum ecosystem is a testament to the power of collaboration, innovation, and strategic investment. By fostering a vibrant community of researchers, entrepreneurs, and investors, the country is positioning itself at the forefront of the quantum revolution. With a strong focus on workforce development and the recruitment of international talent, Denmark is well-positioned to continue its rapid ascent in the world of quantum science and technology.









