Exciting Achievement for Quantum Computing Start-Up
Garching, Germany – The innovative start-up planqc, born from the Max Planck Institute for Quantum Optics, has secured the prestigious German Entrepreneur Award in the StartUp category. Founded in 2022 by quantum physicists Johannes Zeiher, Sebastian Blatt, and Alexander Glätzle, this company aims to revolutionize quantum computing.
Planqc focuses on developing quantum computers that utilize neutral atoms as their basic units of computation, known as qubits. This unique approach promises higher energy efficiency compared to traditional quantum computers that operate at extremely low temperatures.
The German Entrepreneur Award is a collaboration celebrated by esteemed organizations like ZDF, Porsche, Sparkasse, and the Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung. Planqc’s recognition highlights the significant potential of quantum computers, which could expedite advancements in fields such as material and drug discovery, as well as enhance climate modeling and turbine technology.
Alexander Glätzle, CEO and co-founder of planqc, expressed his excitement, stating, “This award validates our technology, showing its appeal in both scientific and business realms.” He emphasized the company’s goal to collaborate with leading industry partners to position Germany and Europe at the forefront of this emerging sector.
CTO and co-founder Sebastian Blatt added, “This honor belongs to our entire team. We aim to illustrate that Germany can turn groundbreaking research into successful companies. The Entrepreneur’s Award provides us with the momentum to expand our technology globally, opening new avenues for both industry and society.”
At their headquarters, a former hardware store in Garching, the planqc team is conducting groundbreaking work using individual atoms trapped in optical lattices created by laser beams. This setup allows for effective combinations of qubits into a functional quantum processor. Looking ahead, planqc, in partnership with the German Aerospace Center and the Leibniz Supercomputing Centre, aims to develop miniaturized, programmable quantum computers by 2027.
Max Planck President Patrick Cramer commented on the importance of investments in advanced technologies like quantum computing, noting that the recognition of planqc within just four years of establishing Munich Quantum Valley is a testament to the region’s collaborative success.
The German Entrepreneur Award is among Germany’s most esteemed business accolades, supported by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy. The award ceremony took place on September 9, 2025, at the ZDF capital studio in Berlin, celebrating the promising future of quantum technology.
