Quantum computing in the enterprise: keys to an imminent transformation

Quantum computing is ceasing to be a futuristic promise to become a technology with concrete applications in the business world. At the end of 2022, the Bankinter Innovation Foundation’s Future Trends Forum (FTF) brought together more than 30 international experts to analyse its impact in combination with artificial intelligence. As a continuation of that work, the Quantum Roadmap for Enterprises was presented in October 2024, a key document to help organizations adopt this technology.

However, many companies that could not attend this presentation are still wondering: how to start? To answer this question, the Foundation has recently organized a webinar with two experts in the field, both participants in both the FTF and the development of the roadmap: Esperanza Cuenca, Head of Developer Relations for Quantum Computing at NVIDIA, and Carlos Kuchkovsky, co-founder and CEO of QCentroid. Moderated by Juan Moreno Bau, Director General of the Foundation, this event breaks down the current state of quantum computing, its practical applications, and how companies can prepare for this transformation.

If you want to watch the webinar, you can do so here:

Webinar Quantum Roadmap for Enterprises

Quantum Computing Basics

Before we dive into its business impact, it’s critical to understand how quantum computing works. Juan Moreno Bau explains, in a simple way, the basic principles of this technology: quantum computing represents a radical change in the way we process information. Unlike traditional computing, which uses bits (0 and 1) to represent data, quantum computing relies on qubits, which can be at 0 and 1 simultaneously thanks to quantum superposition.

To understand this difference, you first need to remember how a classical computer works. It processes electrical signals through transistors, which translate the information into a sequence of zeros and ones. This binary representation is the basis of all the digital technology we use today.

However, in quantum computing, qubits can not only represent a single state, but multiple states at once. This allows quantum computers to perform calculations in parallel, rather than following sequential processes like classical computers. Although this concept may seem abstract, it is the key to its enormous potential.

As the physicist Richard Feynman said: “Whoever thinks he understands quantum mechanics is either lying or he is crazy.” Quantum computing is complex, but the important thing is not only how it works, but what it can be used for. Its application in sectors such as artificial intelligence, process optimization and materials simulation promises to revolutionize the way we solve problems.

The Current State of Quantum Computing

Quantum computing is a developing technology that has not yet reached its full potential. Although there are already quantum processors capable of handling more than 1,000 qubits, we have not yet reached a fully functional quantum computing that fulfills all the promises of this technology.

In industry there is no longer so much talk of quantum supremacy; We now speak of quantum advantage, which occurs when a quantum computer can solve a problem faster, more accurately, or with less computational power than the world’s best supercomputer. However, quantum computing still faces significant challenges, mainly in qubit stability, error correction, and noise reduction in calculations.

There are different technological approaches to quantum computing, such as superconducting qubits, trapped ions, and neutral atoms, each with its own advantages and difficulties. What seems clear is that quantum computers will not work in isolation, but within hybrid architectures, combining CPUs, GPUs and QPUs (Quantum Processing Units) in integrated systems.

This model is already being implemented in supercomputing centers such as the Barcelona Supercomputing Center, which recently announced the installation of a quantum computer. In this way, quantum computing will become a remotely accessible service, just like many other current computational resources in the cloud.

At the programming level, quantum computing completely changes the traditional paradigm, since the results of the calculations are not deterministic, but probabilistic. Instead of getting a single answer, quantum computers work with probability distributions, which is challenging in their adoption and in how algorithms are developed.

Challenges in the adoption of quantum computing

Although quantum computing offers enormous potential, its adoption in companies and organizations presents some key challenges that Carlos and Esperanza expose:

1. Access to technology: There is no need to buy a quantum computer, as many are available through the cloud. However, companies must choose the right platform, considering the multiple technologies available (superconducting qubits, trapped ions, neutral atoms, etc.), each with different advantages and limitations. Currently, there are more than 80 manufacturers developing these technologies, which adds complexity to decision-making.

2. Identifying the use case: Companies need to determine which problems can actually benefit from quantum computing. Since quantum algorithms require a different approach than classical algorithms, it is key to evaluate which hardware and computational model best fits your needs.

3. Lack of specialized talent: quantum computing not only requires physicists and experts in quantum algorithms, but also profiles in business, finance, and technology implementation who understand how to integrate it into business processes. Currently, the demand for talent far exceeds the supply, posing a significant barrier to adoption.

4. Define a clear roadmap: Companies need to ask themselves, “What do we want quantum computing for?” It is critical to understand what impact this technology will have and how it can be leveraged as quantum computers improve their capabilities.

5. Integration with current systems: finally, although access to the cloud facilitates experimentation with quantum computing, its integration with existing processes remains a challenge. Quantum computing must be seamlessly incorporated into business workflows, just as technologies such as artificial intelligence and cloud computing were once adopted.

In short, quantum computing is advancing rapidly and companies that want to take advantage of its potential must prepare now, facing these strategic and technological challenges.

What problems can quantum computing solve?

Having overcome the first challenges in the adoption of quantum computing, the big question is: what problems can be best solved with this technology? Although it is still under development, three major areas have already been identified where quantum computing could provide key advantages.

1. Optimization: Finding the best solution to complex problems

One of the fields where quantum computing has the greatest potential is optimization. These problems are present in multiple sectors:

• Design of more efficient transport routes.
• Inventory and supply chain optimization.
• Allocation of resources in hospitals, airports or universities.
• Distribution of financial investments.

The great challenge of optimization is that, as variables are added, the number of possible combinations grows exponentially, which means that classical computers require unaffordable calculation times. Carlos Kuchkovsky explains that quantum computers can drastically reduce this time, allowing more optimal solutions to be found in much less time.

2. Artificial intelligence and machine learning

Quantum computing can also improve artificial intelligence, both in optimizing machine learning models and in creating quantum neural networks. Esperanza Cuenca highlights that AI is also helping quantum computing, being applied in the calibration of systems and in the correction of errors. This breakthrough will make it possible to create more efficient models and accelerate the development of AI in areas such as data processing, pattern prediction, and autonomous decision-making.

3. Simulation of natural systems and materials

Another field where quantum computing offers unique advantages is the simulation of molecules and materials. Natural systems, such as chemistry, biology, or meteorology, rely on complex equations that require large amounts of calculation. Currently, many of these simulations can only be performed roughly or with immense computational resources.

Some prominent applications include:

• Discovery of new drugs through precise simulations of molecules.
• Design of new materials and more efficient fuels.
• Simulation of climate and the impact of climate change.
• Fluid dynamics modeling, key in the aeronautical and automotive industry.

As Carlos Kuchkovsky points out, many equations used in these fields are known, but their solution with classical computers is still partial and limited. Quantum computing could enable much more accurate and detailed simulations, accelerating innovation across multiple sectors.

The big players in quantum computing

After knowing the problems that quantum computing can solve, it is key to understand who is leading its development. Currently, the quantum ecosystem is made up of four large groups of actors: large technology companies, specialized companies, companies in the consolidation phase and spin-offs born in research centers.

1. Big Tech: IBM, Google, NVIDIA, Amazon, Microsoft, and Intel

Large technology corporations are investing significant resources in quantum computing, with different strategies:

• IBM has been a pioneer in quantum computing, with significant advances in superconducting processors.
• Google has developed the Willow chip, capable of solving calculations in seconds that a classical supercomputer would take hundreds of billions of years to process.
• NVIDIA, while not developing quantum hardware, plays a key role in integrating its GPU technology to accelerate quantum simulations and improve hybrid algorithms.
• Amazon Web Services (AWS) is facilitating access to quantum hardware in the cloud, integrating its platform with different quantum solutions.
• Microsoft is working on an approach based on topological qubits, which is still in the research phase.
• Intel, known for its leadership in conventional chips, is also developing quantum hardware of its own.

2. Companies specializing in quantum computing: IONQ, D-Wave, and Rigetti

These companies have been developing specific quantum technologies for more than a decade and have secured significant funding and investment:

• IONQ is one of the most advanced companies in quantum computing based on trapped ions.
• D-Wave has opted for a different approach, with quantum computers based on quantum annealing, suitable for certain optimization problems.
• Rigetti has managed to establish itself in the industry with its superconducting qubit approach and has attracted investment for the development of its own technology.

3. Chasing group: QuEra Computing, Pasqal and Qilimanjaro

This group of companies is one step behind the leaders, but has made major advances in quantum computing with innovative approaches:

• QuEra Computing (USA) and Pasqal (France) are developing quantum computers based on neutral atoms, an approach that promises greater stability in qubits and possible scalability beyond other technologies.
• Qilimanjaro, based in Spain, has positioned itself as a leading player in adiabatic quantum computing, a distinct method that could be applied in specific optimization problems.

4. Spin-offs and new approaches: ZuriQ and planqc

In recent years, various research centers and universities have promoted spin-offs dedicated to developing new approaches in quantum computing:

• ZuriQ, a startup that seeks innovative solutions to overcome the barriers of quantum scaling.
• planqc (Germany), which is working on new architectures for qubits, exploring different ways to make quantum computing more efficient.

In addition, as we have already mentioned, centers such as the Barcelona Supercomputing Center are beginning to integrate quantum processors into their infrastructures, consolidating the interconnection between quantum computing and classical supercomputing.

Spain and its role in quantum computing

Although quantum computing is dominated by technology giants and specialized companies, Spain has an important role in its development. Not only does it have an ecosystem of internationally renowned researchers, but also research centers, pioneering startups, and companies that are experimenting with this technology.

One of the most prominent references in this field is Ignacio Cirac, Director of the Max Planck Institute for Quantum Optics and member of the Future Trends Forum of the Bankinter Innovation Foundation. His work has been key in the development of theoretical models for quantum computing and their practical application. In addition to Cirac, there is a community of Spanish researchers spread all over the world, working in companies, research centres and top-level universities.

According to Carlos Kuchkovsky, Spain has the opportunity to consolidate itself as one of the global leaders in quantum computing if the ecosystem continues to be strengthened and initiatives such as Quantum Spain promoted.

Cybersecurity in the Quantum Age: The Challenge of Post-Quantum Cryptography

One of the most relevant debates about quantum computing is its impact on digital security. The ability of these computers to solve certain mathematical problems exponentially faster poses a direct risk to today’s encryption systems, which protect most sensitive communications and data around the world.

The risk: breaking current encryption: The biggest danger comes from Shor’s algorithm developed in 1994, which theoretically allows a quantum computer to decompose prime numbers much faster than any classical computer. Since most of today’s encryption systems rely on the difficulty of factoring large prime numbers, this breakthrough would allow current cryptography to be broken in a matter of days or even seconds, rather than the 200 million years it would take for today’s supercomputers.

The immediate answer is post-quantum cryptography, which does not use quantum computing, but algorithms designed to resist attacks from quantum computers. These algorithms are in the process of being standardized by NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology of the USA), which has already selected several candidates that, so far, have not been able to be violated.

However, these algorithms require a large amount of computational resources, which poses a challenge in terms of performance. Companies such as NVIDIA have developed solutions that use GPUs to accelerate post-quantum cryptography, allowing its implementation without affecting the efficiency of the systems.

In the longer term, the adoption of quantum cryptography is expected, which is not based on hard-to-solve mathematics, but on physical principles of quantum mechanics to ensure secure communications. This technology uses entangled photons to detect any interception attempt in a communication. However, quantum cryptography still faces technical challenges, and its large-scale adoption is uncertain. Esperanza Cuenca points out that, in practice, the most viable thing will be to implement both solutions in parallel, adopting post-quantum cryptography in the short term and exploring quantum cryptography as the technology advances.

A worrying phenomenon is known as “Harvest Now, Decrypt Later”. It is suspected that certain actors are storing large volumes of encrypted data with the intention of decrypting it in the future, when quantum computers will be powerful enough. To mitigate this risk, companies are conducting audits of their cryptographic systems, identifying which algorithms they use, and developing a plan to migrate to post-quantum solutions. As Carlos Kuchkovsky points out, this process is complex and must be done gradually, ensuring a safe transition before quantum computing poses a real threat.

Impact of quantum computing on society and geopolitics

Quantum computing will not only transform cybersecurity and business optimization, but will also have a direct impact on the lives of citizens. From the improvement of public services to the evolution of personalized medicine, its development will mark a new era in technology and global geopolitics. Below is a summary of Esperanza and Carlos’ answers to questions from webinar attendees:

1. How will citizens’ lives change?

In the short term, the first effects of quantum computing will be seen in the optimization of public resources. As Carlos Kuchkovsky explains, this technology will allow more efficient planning in Smart Cities, improving the distribution of hospitals, public transport and other essential services.

In the medium and long term, its greatest impact will be in personalized medicine, as it will allow molecular interactions to be accurately modeled and simulated, accelerating the creation of treatments and drugs adapted to each patient. It will also be key in the fight against climate change, optimising energy consumption and facilitating the development of new sustainable materials.

2. Training and job opportunities in quantum computing

Since quantum computing is still in development, job opportunities in this field will continue to grow in the coming years. Esperanza Cuenca points out that there is more demand than supply for professionals with training in this area, and that the learning curve depends on the type of role. Profiles can be divided into two broad categories:

• Technical profiles: specialists in quantum algorithms, quantum hardware and error correction, which require advanced training in physics and mathematics.
• Business and application profiles: experts in quantum technology integration in specific sectors, where it is key to have a good technical base, even if it is not in quantum programming.

What’s more, quantum computing is evolving in a similar way to artificial intelligence: years ago it was necessary to design neural networks from scratch, but now they can be programmed in high-level languages like Python. In quantum computing, a similar trend is already being seen, with tools that facilitate its adoption without the need to be an expert in quantum physics.

3. Raw materials and energy consumption of quantum computers

Another relevant issue is the impact of quantum computing on the use of raw materials and energy. Carlos Kuchkovsky explains that, although the manufacture of quantum computers shares similarities with the semiconductor industry, it requires specific materials such as helium-3 and helium-4, which are essential to maintain ultra-low temperatures in superconducting processors.

In terms of power consumption, although quantum computers require large amounts of energy to operate, their efficiency in complex calculations could reduce total energy consumption compared to current supercomputers.

4. Geopolitics of Quantum Computing: Europe, the US and China

Quantum computing is a technological and strategic race at a global level. Carlos Kuchkovsky, who participates in a European decision-making group on this technology, points out that Europe has a leading role in quantum research, with a strong scientific production and a large number of experts trained on the continent.

However, the pace of investment and development in the US and China is much faster. China, in particular, is seen as a “black box” in terms of progress, as it does not always publish its research openly. For Europe to consolidate its leadership, it is necessary to maintain a scheme of investment and collaboration between institutions and companies.

Esperanza Cuenca emphasises the importance of collaboration between research centres, specialised companies and end users. Projects that combine these three elements are more likely to succeed, as quantum computing is too complex a field to be approached in isolation.

5. Impact on cryptocurrencies and blockchain

Finally, a recurring theme is whether quantum computing could break the security of cryptocurrencies. Carlos Kuchkovsky confirms that most blockchain protocols are based on traditional cryptography, which would make them vulnerable to quantum attacks. However, many projects are already migrating to post-quantum cryptography to protect themselves. In addition, quantum computing could also power cryptocurrencies, enabling the integration of quantum algorithms into smart contracts, which would improve their ability to solve complex problems at speed.

Conclusion: 2025, the year of quantum computing

2025 has been declared the Year of Quantum by UNESCO, a recognition of the growing impact of this technology on society and the global economy. For Esperanza Cuenca, this is a unique opportunity to bring quantum computing closer to a wider audience, promoting knowledge about a technology that will have an increasing presence in our daily lives.

Carlos Kuchkovsky agrees on the importance of this milestone, stressing that the more people – citizens, scientists, businessmen – are interested in quantum computing, the faster its development will advance. This year’s declaration is key to raising awareness and accelerating the adoption of this technology in different sectors.

Besides, the time to start is now. Although quantum computing still has challenges to solve, there are already pragmatic and affordable ways to start exploring them. As Esperanza Cuenca points out, many companies are already taking the first steps, collaborating with other entities without the need to make large capital investments. What they do generate, and is a key asset in the knowledge economy, is intellectual capital, something that will make a difference in the future.

The final message of the webinar is clear: quantum computing is here and whoever starts adopting it now will have a competitive advantage in the coming years. As Juan Moreno recalls, the Bankinter Innovation Foundation will continue to explore this technological revolution, promoting knowledge and collaboration around one of the most promising technologies of the 21st century.