Quantum technology events

There are some fascinating events this year around quantum – from commercialisation to cryptography, sensing to condensed matter, there’s something for everyone either working in or interested in the field.

What’s particularly exciting to see is the practical approach of these events, and the natural collaborations between academia and business, working together on innovation.

Quantum Photonics Spotlight 2026 – Paderborn, Germany (28 September–2 October 2026)

Quantum Photonics Spotlight 2026 focuses on the full development chain of photonic quantum technologies, from fundamental theory and modelling through to system design, simulation, applications and enabling technologies. Hosted in Paderborn, it is a strong fit for researchers, innovators, and technical leaders working in or adjacent to quantum photonics, one of the areas likely to shape future progress in quantum communication, sensing and computing.

Quantum Effects 2026 – Stuttgart, Germany (6–7 October 2026)

Quantum Effects is one of Europe’s most application-oriented quantum technology events, bringing together industry, research, and politics around the practical development of quantum technologies. The Stuttgart event is particularly relevant for readers interested in commercial applications, industrial adoption, and Europe’s role in the global quantum race. It has more of a trade fair structure than some of the research-led conferences listed here, but its focus on application and market readiness makes it worth inclusion.

Munich Quantum Software Forum 2026 – Munich, Germany (14–15 October 2026)

The Munich Quantum Software Forum is aimed at the software layer of the quantum ecosystem: tools, stacks, hybrid workflows, end-user needs, and the infrastructure required to make quantum computing practically accessible. Taking place in one of Europe’s strongest quantum regions, the forum is a good fit for readers interested in the less glamorous but critical question of how quantum systems will actually be programmed, integrated, and used.

Q+AI 2026 – New York City, USA (25–27 October 2026)

Q+AI 2026 focuses on the convergence of quantum computing and artificial intelligence. Produced by Inside Quantum Technology, the event is designed around a deliberately vertical topic rather than a broad technology showcase, with additional attention to post-quantum computing and cryptography. For readers tracking the next wave of advanced computing, this is a useful marker of how the quantum and AI communities are beginning to overlap, technically, commercially and strategically.

EQTC 2026: European Quantum Technologies Conference – Dublin, Ireland (29 November–3 December 2026)

EQTC 2026 is the European Quantum Technologies Conference and one of the key gathering points for Europe’s quantum research and innovation ecosystem. Taking place in Dublin, the event will bring together academia, industry, start-ups, policymakers, investors, and international collaborators across quantum computing, simulation, communication, sensing, and metrology. With the next phase of the European Quantum Flagship and the emerging EU Quantum Act in view, this is a strong strategic addition for readers tracking where European quantum capability, policy, and commercialisation are heading next.