D-Wave and Creative Destruction Lab create one-year program for quantum machine learning startups

d-wave quantum computer

Burnaby-based D-Wave Systems is partnering with the Creative Destruction Lab at the University of Toronto’s Rotman School of Management to support quantum machine learning.

D-Wave will work as a CDL partner to create a new track for startups in this field, and will complement CDL’s existing machine learning track.

The one-year program includes an introductory boot camp led by Dr. Peter Wittek, author of Quantum Machine Learning: What Quantum Computing means to Data Mining; instruction and technical support from D-Wave experts; access to a D-Wave 2000Q quantum computer; and the opportunity to use a D-Wave sampling service to enable machine learning computations and applications.

“Helping to build an ecosystem of quantum AI and machine learning startups who develop applications speaks directly to D-Wave’s vision: bringing quantum computing out of the research lab and into the real world,” said Vern Brownell, CEO of D-Wave. “The convergence of quantum computing and machine learning will drive significant value to businesses and the world. We’re proud to join with CDL and use their proven approach to facilitate the creation of early-stage companies who share that vision, and to help them use D-Wave’s technology to jumpstart their businesses.”

Applications for the program — which is open to international contenders — will be accepted in three rounds with dates set for May 29, June 26, and July 24. D-Wave will provide a specified level of access to its quantum system and sampling service to each startup; any startup may procure additional access from D-Wave in exchange for equity or cash.

“We are thrilled to have D-Wave as a CDL partner and for our companies to have access not only to their quantum computing and sampling technologies, but also to their world-class team of quantum machine learning experts,” said Rachel Harris, director of CDL. “Access to D-Wave systems will not only help strengthen learning from the theoretical and applied concepts taught in the boot camp, it will also create an environment of experimentation and exploration of new approaches, and technologies, which lies at the very core of what we do at the Lab.”

Last week, CDL announced its expansion into three cities, including Montreal, Calgary, and Halifax.

Jessica Galang

Jessica Galang

Freelance tech writer. Former BetaKit News Editor.

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