US $2 Billion Quantum Grants Lift Infleqtion 23% as IBM Set for $1 Billion
Updated
Updated · Business Insider · May 21
US $2 Billion Quantum Grants Lift Infleqtion 23% as IBM Set for $1 Billion
7 articles · Updated · Business Insider · May 21
Infleqtion jumped 23% after the Commerce Department formally announced $2 billion in quantum-computing grants, confirming a White House plan that had fueled earlier gains.
IBM is expected to receive about $1 billion of the package, while GlobalFoundries is slated for $375 million and D-Wave, Rigetti and Infleqtion for $1 million each.
Pure-play quantum names outpaced IBM in Thursday trading, with D-Wave up 16.5%, Rigetti 14%, Quantum Computing 11% and IBM 7%.
The funding advances an October 2025 proposal to take equity stakes in quantum firms and underscores Washington's broader push to build US technology leadership and jobs.
With the government now a major tech shareholder, what are the new rules for the global quantum computing race?
Beyond the stock rally, what are the hidden risks when government acts as a venture capitalist in strategic industries?
U.S. Quantum Computing Surge: $2 Billion in Grants, Equity Stakes, and the Race Against China
Overview
On May 21, 2026, the U.S. government announced a major initiative to boost quantum computing by awarding substantial grants to leading companies and startups. D-Wave Quantum, Rigetti Computing, and Infleqtion each received $100 million, while Diraq was awarded $38 million. This strategic funding aims to accelerate innovation and secure a competitive edge in quantum technology. The announcement immediately sparked strong reactions in financial markets, increasing investment interest and signaling robust confidence in the industry's future. The government's commitment is expected to further amplify positive sentiment and drive growth in the quantum computing sector.