Planqc has secured the German Founders Award 2025 in the Startup category. The jury praised the clear scalability of the business model, which is based on three pillars: hardware sales, cloud-based quantum computing as a service, and software development. Pursue demonstrated how “quantum computing made in Germany” can be put into practice.
Quantum computer from Garching
Planqc is developing quantum computers that use neutral atoms as quantum bits – an approach that is particularly energy-efficient because the systems run at room temperature.
"This award is a tremendous endorsement for us. It shows that our technology is not only scientifically but also commercially compelling. We want to put quantum computing into practice together with strong partners from industry and science and help Germany and Europe achieve a leading position in this pioneering industry. This award recognizes precisely that."
says Alexander Glätzle, CEO and co-founder of Planqc.
The startup was founded in 2022 as the first spin-off of the Max Planck Institute of Quantum Optics in Munich's Quantum Valley. Today, Planqc is one of the pioneers of digital quantum computers in Germany. Together with the Leibniz Supercomputing Center and the German Aerospace Center, the startup is working on systems with up to 1,000 qubits, which are scheduled to be completed by 2027. Planqc also collaborates with partners such as Airbus, ESA, and Fraunhofer on software projects.
"This success is the merit of the entire team. We want to prove that it is possible to translate cutting-edge research into successful companies in Germany. The Founders' Award gives us the momentum to roll out our technology internationally and open up completely new opportunities for business and society,"
explained Sebastian Blatt, CTO and co-founder of Planqc.
The German Founders’ Award is one of the most prestigious business awards in Germany and is presented by ZDF, Porsche, Sparkasse and the Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung. Further information about the award and this year’s ceremony can be found here.
