California officials gathered at the University of California, Berkeley to launch Quantum California, a new statewide initiative aimed at advancing quantum technology and creating jobs. The event brought together university researchers, industry leaders, and government partners to develop a unified strategy for quantum innovation.
Governor Gavin Newsom emphasized the state’s history of technological leadership in his remarks: “California has always been the place where the future happens first – everything from semiconductors to the internet to clean energy. With Quantum California, we’re ensuring the next revolution in technology starts here, too. Quantum computing, sensing, and communication will transform the world as we know it, and California will lead the way, creating jobs, advancing discovery and securing our technological edge for decades to come.”
The event was co-hosted by the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz), the University of California Office of the President, and UC Berkeley. It marks a coordinated effort to keep California at the forefront of emerging technologies. This initiative follows recent legislation signed by Governor Newsom that provides funding for research and development in quantum industries.
Quantum computing is expected to bring major advances by solving complex problems much faster than traditional computers. Potential applications include drug discovery, artificial intelligence improvement, climate modeling, and secure communications networks.
Officials at the event discussed recent breakthroughs in quantum computing as well as practical uses for quantum sensing and networking. They also addressed how existing infrastructure such as national labs and foundries can help move prototypes into real-world applications in areas like advanced manufacturing.
University of California President James B. Milliken commented on the collaborative nature of Quantum California: “Quantum California brings together some of the world’s best researchers, most successful businesses, and top state leaders to advance technology, science, and economic strength — and ensure that California remains the world’s innovation hub,” he said. “From our campuses to our national labs, UC researchers are at the vanguard of quantum breakthroughs, paving the way to a healthier, safer, and more prosperous California. UC is proud to join our partners in this effort.”
UC Berkeley Chancellor Rich Lyons added: “Berkeley is thrilled and honored to be the launchpad for ‘Quantum California.’ Our university excels at what this moment demands: fueling and facilitating the free exchange of ideas between academia, industry, and government in pursuit of discoveries that will advance the health, well-being, and security of the American people.”
In October 2025 Governor Newsom signed Assembly Bill 940 authored by Assemblymember Buffy Wicks (D-Oakland). The bill establishes a statewide strategy focused on translating quantum research into commercial output. GO-Biz will publish a strategic framework aligned with California’s Economic Blueprint while $4 million from state funds will support workforce development initiatives.
Dee Dee Myers—Senior Advisor to Governor Newsom and Director of GO-Biz—said: “Quantum California is about turning discovery into opportunity so that our state’s research powerhouses can connect with entrepreneurs and companies to drive real innovation, investment, and job creation,” she said. “No other place in the world has the ability to bring together this depth of talent, technology, and creativity as a force for economic progress.”
California is home to several leading quantum research centers—including those at UC Berkeley; UCLA; USC; Stanford; Google Quantum AI Campus (with UC Santa Barbara); Microsoft Station Q Lab (UC Santa Barbara); Amazon Web Services Center for Quantum Computing (Caltech)—and produces top talent through its universities’ strong artificial intelligence programs.
State officials highlighted that these investments aim not only at maintaining technological leadership but also expanding economic opportunities across regions.
