Quantum FAST Challenge

The Quantum FAST Challenge is a state-administered grant program designed to strengthen California’s leadership in quantum technology by investing in workforce development and applied innovation. The initiative is administered through a partnership between the California Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development and the California Education Learning Lab, both of which play central roles in advancing economic development and higher education innovation within the state. This funding opportunity reflects California policymakers’ prioritization of quantum technologies, including computing, sensing, and communication, as a critical driver of economic growth and technological advancement. The primary purpose of the Quantum FAST Challenge is to expand the state’s quantum talent pipeline and accelerate the development of practical applications of quantum technologies. The program supports projects that address workforce shortages, particularly at the certificate, undergraduate, and master’s levels, while also encouraging collaboration between academia and industry. Funded initiatives must align with one or more of four designated tracks, including expanding access to hands-on quantum learning experiences, building entry pathways for learners in adjacent technical fields, advancing applied research and use-case demonstrations, and supporting innovative approaches that fall outside traditional categories. Funding is structured to support a range of project scales and complexities, with total program funding of up to 2.7 million dollars and individual awards ranging from 50000 to 500000 dollars. Smaller awards of up to 100000 dollars are intended for prototyping curricula or limited-scale initiatives, while larger awards support multi-institutional scaling or applied demonstrations. The highest tier of funding is reserved for projects that incorporate multiple tracks and demonstrate strong collaboration across California’s public higher education systems. Projects are expected to be implemented over an 18 to 24 month period, and certain funding thresholds require formal collaboration between institutions within the University of California, California State University, or California Community College systems. Eligibility is restricted to projects led by faculty members or administrators within California’s public higher education segments. While private nonprofit institutions may participate, leadership must come from one of the three public systems. Applications must include at least two letters of recommendation, one of which must be from the applicant’s employer. Projects must align with the program’s stated priorities and include all required materials outlined in the Request for Proposals. For certain tracks, applicants must demonstrate how their work strengthens the quantum workforce pipeline, while Track 3 proposals must include a clear applied use case with measurable outcomes and industry collaboration. The application process consists of three primary stages, beginning with a required Statement of Intent that captures basic project information and eligibility confirmation. Applicants who meet initial criteria proceed to submit a full proposal along with letters of recommendation. During the review process, applicants may be asked to respond to clarifying questions from reviewers. All submissions are completed through an online portal, and adherence to deadlines is strictly enforced. The Statement of Intent is due by October 1, 2026, followed by the full proposal deadline on October 20, 2026. Proposals are evaluated using a structured rubric developed by the administering agencies, with final award decisions made by leadership at the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development and the Government Operations Agency. Evaluation criteria emphasize clarity of goals, feasibility of implementation, strength of partnerships, and potential impact on workforce development and innovation. Additional considerations include geographic distribution and alignment with broader state initiatives. Award notifications are expected in late November 2026, with grant agreements finalized by January 29, 2027, and project activities commencing on February 1, 2027. The program does not explicitly state recurring cycles, but timelines and structured rollout suggest a coordinated funding initiative tied to current state priorities.

Be specific about goals outcomes and evaluation metrics demonstrate strong collaboration align with workforce needs and provide clear practical implementation plans highlight research base and sustainability