Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald has launched new research setting out how Northern Ireland can turn advances in quantum technologies into jobs and investment, highlighting opportunities in quantum-secure communications, photonics, sensing and applied software.

The report, Quantum Technologies in Northern Ireland, was commissioned by MATRIX NI on behalf of the Department for the Economy and produced by SAMI Consulting. It examines where focused action could accelerate the translation of emerging quantum capabilities into economic benefit.

It concludes that Northern Ireland should adopt a specialised, application-led approach that builds on existing expertise while deepening connections with the wider UK, Irish and European quantum ecosystem.

Unveiling the findings at AICON 2026, part of Belfast Tech Week, at ICC Belfast, Dr Archibald said: "Quantum technologies present an emerging economic opportunity and this report identifies areas where we already have research and industrial capability on which to build, particularly quantum-safe communications, photonics, sensing and applied software.

"My priority is ensuring that emerging technologies translate into good jobs, investment and economic value is retained here. By focusing on the areas where we have genuine strengths, we can position ourselves to capture the opportunities presented by this rapidly developing sector. "This report gives us an important evidence base to help determine where focused action can deliver the greatest economic impact."

Tom Gray, who chaired the study and is a MATRIX NI panel member, said: "The report provides strong evidence that Northern Ireland should focus on areas where it already has relevant capability, particularly photonics, applied software and cybersecurity.

"Companies including Andor Technology and Seagate, alongside our universities and centres such as CSIT at Queen's University Belfast, provide a foundation for developing post-quantum cryptography, photonics-enabled sensing and future quantum applications.

"The task now is to focus, coordinate and retain the value created here. This report sets out how we can do that."

The study points to post-quantum cryptography and quantum-safe communications as the clearest near-term commercial prospects, alongside potential in photonics, sensing, imaging and applied software.

It also highlights established strengths including Queen's University Belfast's involvement in UK quantum programmes, the £63.9 million Smart Nano NI investment, and Seagate's advanced nanophotonics capability in L'Derry.

The full report is available at: matrixni.org/documents/quantum-technologies-in-northern-ireland/?portfolioCats=162