UKRI backs quantum projects and technician training
An October 16 UKRI announcement sets out support for practical quantum technology, networks and apprenticeships.
What the record says
UK Research and Innovation announced support on October 16 for businesses developing practical quantum technologies, alongside networking and training measures. The agency describes a £50 million package supporting innovation and skills, including work on railway monitoring, portable eye scanning and radio-signal systems. Its announcement also identifies £20 million for domestic quantum networking capability and an £8 million expansion of the QuEST apprenticeship programme. The apprenticeship scheme aims to help 150 engineering apprentices support the quantum workforce by 2030.
Source details and supporting locations.
Practical next step
Businesses and prospective trainees can use UKRI’s announcement to identify the named programmes and project areas.
Limits and what is not established
These are funding and development plans. Proposed benefits for railways, healthcare and communications are not evidence that the products are deployed or that the stated outcomes have been achieved. The funding figures are reported separately without assuming they form an additional combined total.
Sources checked October 18, 2026. Later notices may change instructions or arrangements.
Original sources
UK Research and Innovation: original information