Governor Hochul Announced Launch of Selection Process for Regional Quantum Technology Commercialization Hubs

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced a competitive Request for Proposals to establish up to four Regional Quantum Technology Commercialization Hubs across New York State. First proposed in her 2026 State of the State and funded with $60 million in the FY 2027 Budget, the initiative will help translate groundbreaking quantum research into new products, growing companies and good-paying jobs. The hubs - administered by Empire State Development's Division of Science, Technology and Innovation (NYSTAR) - build on the Governor's $300 million investment in the Quantum Research and Innovation Hub at SUNY Stony Brook, together forming a statewide network connecting universities, startups, industry and government partners to accelerate commercialization. Applications are due October 14, 2026; the RFP is available here.

"New York has never waited for the future to arrive - we invest in the people, ideas and infrastructure that will build it here. With this $60 million investment, we are creating regional hubs that will turn groundbreaking quantum research into growing companies, good-paying jobs and real-world solutions," Governor Hochul said. "By connecting our world-class universities and researchers with entrepreneurs and industry partners across the state, we are ensuring that New York leads in one of the most consequential technologies of the next generation."

Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, "Governor Hochul has made clear that New York will compete - and win - in the industries shaping the future. Our state already has world-class quantum researchers, facilities and ideas. These new hubs will connect those assets with the expertise, infrastructure and partnerships needed to turn quantum discoveries into New York companies, good-paying jobs and long-term economic growth."

Empire State Development's NYSTAR Executive Director Ben Verschueren said, "With these new hubs, we are preparing New York's commercialization engine for the quantum era. This unmatched platform empowers innovators to take world-changing technologies from the lab to the market and drive economic growth for generations."

Quantum technologies have the potential to transform industries through advances in computing, sensing and secure communications, with possible applications ranging from more secure financial transactions and renewable energy technologies to faster drug discovery. The sector is projected to generate $97 billion in global revenue by 2035, presenting a significant opportunity for New York to attract private investment, create jobs and strengthen its long-term economic competitiveness.

The Regional Quantum Technology Commercialization Hubs will become part of the NYSTAR network, expanding the statewide system that helps innovators transform discoveries into new products, businesses and career opportunities. The initiative also complements Governor Hochul's broader innovation strategy, which includes major investments in life sciences, semiconductors, advanced manufacturing and other high-growth industries.

Each selected hub will receive up to $15 million to establish a regional anchor for quantum innovation. The hubs will focus on commercializing new inventions and developing real-world applications for quantum technologies. Each will also operate an incubator for quantum-focused startups, providing early-stage companies with critical resources, including mentorship and access to local quantum networks and quantum-computing resources.

Applicants must hold 501(c)(3) nonprofit status and demonstrate relevant experience in quantum research and development, technology incubation, and innovation-related operations. Two or more entities may apply jointly as a consortium, with one member designated as the lead applicant. Proposals will be evaluated on the strength of the hub's operating plan, the applicant's industry partnerships and expertise, its capacity to support early-stage companies, access to advanced tools and research infrastructure, and proposed cost of services.

ESD will host an informational session for prospective applicants on Friday, August 21, 2026. Those interested must email [email protected] for an application and submit by Tuesday, August 18, 2026.