Pasqal and Quandela become two of the more visible French quantum computing startups during the late 2010s and early 2020s. Pasqal works on neutral atom quantum processors, while Quandela focuses on photonic quantum computing approaches. Both companies build on French research strengths and attract investment as interest in quantum computing grows globally.
These companies face the typical deep tech challenges of long development timelines and the need to demonstrate meaningful quantum advantage over classical systems. They develop both hardware platforms and the software/tools needed to make those platforms usable by researchers and early commercial users. Progress is measured in incremental technical milestones rather than immediate broad commercial deployment.
From a business perspective, companies working on quantum hardware are making long-term bets on a technology that is still maturing. Success depends on both technical breakthroughs and the ability to build the surrounding ecosystem (software, applications, talent) needed for adoption. Investors and partners who engage with these companies are typically taking a multi-year view rather than expecting quick returns.
The growth of these companies also helps build the broader quantum ecosystem in France. They create jobs for quantum engineers and researchers, develop supply chains for specialized components, and create use cases that help define what quantum computing can eventually deliver. This ecosystem building is valuable even if full commercial quantum advantage takes longer than initially hoped in some areas.
What this period shows is that progress in quantum computing often comes through sustained, incremental effort by specialized teams rather than sudden breakthroughs. Organizations that can maintain technical focus and secure patient capital over multiple years are best positioned to contribute meaningfully as the technology advances. The companies that survive and grow during this phase often become important nodes in the larger quantum ecosystem.
Sources: Company announcements and funding news for Pasqal and Quandela, technical progress reports, quantum computing ecosystem analyses.