#United States #Miami #eMerge Americas #Florida Quantum #Quantum Coast

Florida's Quantum Leap: The Launch of Florida Quantum

On December 3, 2025, amidst increasing national focus on quantum technologies, Florida took a significant step forward by launching the Florida Quantum initiative during the Tech Basel AI Summit in Miami. This statewide initiative seeks to organize, attract, and accelerate quantum innovation across the state, marking an important milestone in Florida's evolution as a hub for emerging technologies.

The launch comes just one week after the federal government's announcement of the Genesis Mission, a comprehensive initiative to boost science and innovation through quantum advancements and next-generation computing. Florida Quantum aims to align with these federal efforts, signaling a coordinated approach toward integrating emerging quantum technologies into the state's economy and educational framework.

Co-led by notable figures such as Matt Cimaglia, founder and managing partner of Quantum Coast Capital, and Tony Jimenez, managing partner of Medina Ventures, Florida Quantum is a collaborative effort involving various stakeholders. This includes the Florida Alliance for Quantum Technology (FAQT), eMerge Americas, and the support of FloridaCommerce.

The initiative operates under the domain FloridaQuantum.org, acting as a bridge between private enterprises and government entities to strengthen Florida's standing in the global quantum technology landscape. Its mission focuses on encouraging quantum companies to establish their operations in Florida, fostering a skilled workforce ready for the quantum era, and expanding the state's technology investment portfolio.

Florida's ambitions in quantum technology are visible through its recent historical activities, such as the Quantum Beach event, which brought together prominent players from the quantum sector, investors, researchers, and policymakers. This past October event marked a shift from isolated quantum events to a comprehensive statewide movement aimed at establishing Florida as a key player in the quantum economy.

Cimaglia emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, "Florida has long been a launchpad for technological revolutions, from the early days of computing to the modern aerospace era. With quantum technology, we're organizing early to ensure Florida doesn't just participate; we lead. This initiative will serve as a catalyst for collaboration, capital, and talent across the state."

The focus of Florida Quantum extends beyond mere attraction; it aims to create sustainable business opportunities, mirroring successful models established by other states in the quantum sector. The initiative plans to engage with accelerator programs, promote state investment in quantum-focused research and companies, and enhance workforce development initiatives. This includes engaging students from an early age in foundational quantum concepts, aiming to build a robust pipeline for future talent in this rapidly advancing field.

Tony Jimenez reiterated the initiative’s vision, highlighting the importance of synergy between quantum firms and federal and private partners. He remarked, "Connecting Florida's universities, investors, and leading quantum companies with government stakeholders enables us to create a sustainable ecosystem that drives research with a clear path to commercialization and job creation in quantum technologies."

In a broader context, 2025 has been recognized as the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology (IYQ2025), highlighting the global recognition of the transformative potential of quantum advancements. Florida Quantum is positioning itself strategically to align with both national and international efforts aimed at scaling the quantum technology sector. The initiative operates within a framework similar to other successful statewide quantum alliances across the country, offering companies a structured pathway to engage with resources and support.

Founding members of Florida Quantum represent a diverse coalition of industry leaders, academic researchers, and national security experts committed to pushing forward this essential sector. By fostering collaboration between the private sector and educational institutions, Florida Quantum aims to strengthen the state's innovation ecosystem, ultimately supporting advancements in national defense, cybersecurity, healthcare, and beyond.

As the landscape of technology continues to evolve, Florida Quantum is committed to ensuring that the state not only participates but also leads in the burgeoning quantum economy, showcasing the incredible potential that lies in this cutting-edge field.