QAL brings quantum applications to the forefront at Quantum Meets
On 20 May, the Quantum Application Lab (QAL) hosted a session at Quantum Meets, shifting the spotlight from theory to practice. While the broader programme largely focused on academic advances in quantum technology, QAL demonstrated what matters most for organisations today: how quantum computing can already start delivering value. With a fully packed session and highly engaged audience, the message was clear: applications are on the verge of becoming a strategic priority.
QAL’s session centered on translating quantum into tangible business impact. By showcasing real-world collaborations, such as use cases with KLM on quantitative marketing and A/B testing, and with UMC Utrecht in radiotherapy, the session provided concrete proof of how quantum and quantum-inspired solutions can address industry challenges. Importantly, these use cases were presented together with partners, giving voice to end-users and offering practical insights into collaboration, implementation, and value creation. This not only sparked strong audience interest, but also led to highly relevant questions focused on partnership models and how organisations can initiate similar use cases.
Beyond individual use cases, QAL positioned itself as a critical bridge in the quantum ecosystem. By connecting academic expertise, technology developers, and industry players, QAL helps organisations navigate what works today, what does not yet, and where hybrid quantum-classical approaches can already make a difference. The session clearly illustrated that quantum computing potential spans aviation, healthcare, logistics, energy, and beyond. By grounding discussions in real-world applications, QAL enables organisations to build realistic strategies and accelerate adoption.
The impact of this approach was most visible in the conversations after the session. As Jasper Verbree, one of the speakers and scientist innovator at TNO, reflected: ‘What I appreciated most were conversations after the presentations. People were enthused and interested in the practical aspects and potential of collaborations like these. This also really helps to raise my own enthusiasm.’ This enthusiasm, combined with a clear appetite for collaboration, underscored the growing demand for application-driven quantum innovation.
Offering a closing perspective, Cornel Zachiu, speaker and Clinical Computer Scientist at UMC Utrecht, remarked ‘It was truly inspiring to witness the current capabilities of quantum technologies and the immense potential they hold for advancing cancer care and the broader medical field. Experiencing the energy and enthusiasm of those in attendance left a lasting impression, reinforcing my confidence that significant progress will be achieved in the near future.’
