As quick as quantum—Why Helsinki is the city to watch 

Helsinki is home to some of the world’s happiest people—and physicists (probably). From research to cryogenic systems and quantum computers, a strong quantum ecosystem pushes our research and development further each day. With over 1,000 experts in the field, there’s a lot happening here. And with hefty funding opportunities in Finland and the EU, there’s plenty more to do. Ready to tune into our frequency? 

Why Helsinki for quantum computing?

Advanced cryptography, high-precision sensing, drug development and more. We’re in the middle of the second quantum revolution, and there’s much to be excited about. If you’re considering European business expansion, here’s why you should put Helsinki on your map (pssst, we’re near the top):

1. We’ve been on this ride for decades

Our commitment to quantum technology began with low-temperature physics in the 1960s. Today, Finland has one of the world’s most powerful hybrid HPC+nQC resources.  Our long-running enthusiasm for quantum computing and digital advancement has created a unique ecosystem, with Helsinki boasting a solid Quantum supply chain and a wide range of products and services that could help your business grow. 

2. Access to quantum computing resources 

Finland’s world-class quantum research and technology offer a real path into the future. Some of our lead players include VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland (VTT), a state-owned research centre boasting two quantum computers; InstituteQ, an organisation dedicated to shaping Finland’s role in global quantum technology; and IQM, which builds quantum computers. Our quantum computing infrastructure is readily available to private companies like yours. These resources include: 

Helmi and Leena

Helmi and Leena are quantum computers in Finland. Helmi is a 5-qubit quantum computer (VTT Q5) that’s available to be used by companies and researchers alike.​ Leena boasts 20-qubits and will be scaled up to 50 qubits by the end of 2024, with plans to scale it to 300 qubits by 2027 using a EUR 70 million budget granted by the Finnish government. Both quantum computers were co-developed with IQM and are owned by VTT.

Kvasi, the Atos Quantum Learning Machine

Kvasi is a simulator that can be used to develop new quantum algorithms for quantum computers of 30+ qubits. 

Micronova

Micronova is the largest cleanroom facility in the Nordic countries. It has MilliLab—an external laboratory for mmWave tests and

characterisation up to ~300 GHz—, quantum and cryogenic characterisation environments, and optics and photonics characterisation environments. It’s also connected to the quantum computer Helmi and supercomputer Lumi. 

The Low Temperature Laboratory

The Low Temperature Laboratory is one of the world’s leading ultra-low-temperature physics and technology centres. Its equipment can withstand temperatures as low as -273°C. 

3. We’re hot on snow (LUMI)

Lumi means ‘snow’ in Finnish. It’s also the name of a supercomputer at the CSC’s data centre in Kajaani, Finland. In fact, it’s the fastest supercomputer in Europe and the third fastest globally. Better yet, when combined with HELMI—a 5-qubit quantum computer—LUMI is the world’s most powerful quantum-assisted supercomputing infrastructure. 

By tapping into the power of both quantum and supercomputers​, LUMI could solve the world’s greatest scientific and societal problems. If you’re willing to partner with research groups or companies in Finland, private companies like yours can use it too. Up to 20% of all its resources are available to industry and SMEs to support their research and development (RDI) activities. 

Lumi is a joint undertaking with the EuroHPC consortium.

4. A collaborative quantum workforce

Home to the most quantum experts in the Nordics, our workforce of over 1000 professionals makes a vibrant, well-connected quantum community. Why is our workforce so unique? Collaboration. Helsinki is known for its public-private-people partnerships. Government agencies, academic institutions, research organisations and private companies work together. It helps us punch above our weight in many research areas and leads to better innovation within the sector. Because what’s good is good for everyone. 

5. Access to funding 

Government-funded organisations like Business Finland offer funding for international companies that are established or registered in Finland. This includes startups, SMEs, and large companies interested in joining Finland’s quantum computing ecosystem. As of 2024, it has provided 4.1 million euros in funding.  

You’ll also be able to access funding from the EU. The European Innovation Council offers 10 billion euros for quantum projects over 2021-2027. Another 1 billion euros is available through the European Commission’s Quantum Technologies Flagship initiative. 

6. Helsinkians have a global mindset

Helsinki is strategically located in Northern Europe, with direct flights to major business centres worldwide—just perfect for Nordic business expansion. We also have one of the highest levels of English proficiency in the world, ranking #8 globally according to the EF English Proficiency Index 2024. This fluency drives progress, makes for smooth collaboration in multinational teams, and supports the ease of doing business. Many of our top companies think diversity makes for better teams, and future workplaces will be fundamentally international. 

7.  There’s an empty seat with your name on it

In Helsinki, we’ve honed in on developing quantum hardware, algorithms, and software, as well as cryogenic technologies, microelectronics, and semiconductors. And with strong research in other areas like 6G, artificial intelligence and cybersecurity, the city is a melting pot for the cutting-edge. Our success stories? Just check out IQM, Bluefors, SemiQon, and Quantrolox. While many make up our ecosystem, it isn’t complete. Interested in quantum sensing, quantum compilers, or quantum OS? There’s an empty seat with your name on it. 

Now’s the right time to get involved 

Innovation in Helsinki isn’t just a buzzword. Thanks to government support for quantum computing, organisations like Business Finland are set on internationalising the Finnish quantum ecosystem. If you’re interested in international market expansion, the Quantum Computing Campaign provides funding and support for companies looking to solve major problems through quantum computing. It’s also open to international startups, SMEs, and large companies, provided your company is registered or established in Finland. 

Don’t just take our word for it

Quantum computing is an emerging industry, and developments are hard to predict. The question on everyone’s lips: How can it be commercialised? We don’t have all the answers, but we’re getting there. Some companies to watch include: 

QuantrolOx

QuantrolOx is a software company in Helsinki. Their product Quantum Edge automatically tunes and optimises superconducting quantum computers to reduce the time for fundamental experiments such as resonator and qubit spectroscopy to mere seconds. 

Bluefors

Bluefors is a private company based in Helsinki and a leading developer of ultra-low-temperature cooling systems, such as cryogenic measurement systems, cryocoolers, and cryogenic products. With 600+ employees and EUR 160 million in revenue, it offers cooling solutions for quantum technology, fundamental physics research and groundbreaking applications.

SemiQon 

SemiQon builds quantum processors for the million-qubit era. They develop silicon-based quantum processors to make future quantum computers more affordable, scalable, and sustainable—the three major challenges in quantum computing.

Hei quantum experts, you’re welcome here

Helsinki is a place to grow in the quantum landscape. The city boasts a thriving ecosystem that excels in crucial areas like cryogenics, microelectronics and semiconductors. As a member of the EU and NATO, you’ll benefit from strong international ties, European market access, excellent transportation links, and logistics infrastructure. 

Ready to tune into our frequency? Same. Our digital team at Helsinki Partners can help you identify the right opportunities when starting a business in Finland—whether opening a subsidiary, piloting a new product, establishing an R&D hub or more. We can introduce you to the key people in the city, from government officials to private companies or research institutions. We’ll also help you access tax incentives, understand corporate tax rates, get access to data sharing and funding opportunities, and offer practical advice on setting up operations in Europe.

Curious? 

Book a meeting with one of our Senior Advisors to find out if Helsinki is the right place for your business.