U.S. Accelerates Quantum Tech & PQC Adoption: $2B CHIPS Act Grants to IBM, GlobalFoundries; Federal Systems Mandated PQC Migration by 2030

July 5, 2026

Wiley Rein USA

Overview

The U.S. government has launched a comprehensive strategy to accelerate quantum technology leadership and post-quantum cryptography (PQC) migration, driven by two Executive Orders signed on June 22, 2026. This includes a $2 billion allocation from the CHIPS Act for quantum R&D, with IBM receiving $1 billion for a superconducting quantum foundry and GlobalFoundries $375 million for diverse quantum architectures. Federal high-value assets are mandated to transition to PQC for key establishment by December 31, 2030, and digital signatures by December 31, 2031, signaling a critical push for national cyber resilience against future quantum threats.

In Depth

Key Findings

The United States government has significantly intensified its commitment to quantum information science and technology (QIST) and accelerated its transition to post-quantum cryptography (PQC) through two Executive Orders signed by President Donald Trump on June 22, 2026, alongside a substantial $2 billion allocation in CHIPS Act R&D funding. This strategic offensive mandates that critical federal systems implement PQC for key establishment by December 31, 2030, and for digital signatures by December 31, 2031, aiming to preemptively neutralize future cybersecurity threats posed by advanced quantum computers while simultaneously fostering quantum innovation and commercialization.

Technical / Policy Details

Quantum Innovation Executive Order: This directive outlines a whole-of-government approach to accelerate the commercialization of QIST. A central component is the “Quantum Computer for Application Development and Discovery Science (QC-ADDS) Effort,” which aims to develop a “scientifically useful” quantum computer by 2028. This initiative emphasizes a rapid progression from foundational research to practical applications and deployment.
Post-Quantum Cryptography Executive Order: Titled “Securing the Nation Against Advanced Cryptographic Attacks,” this order mandates an accelerated migration of federal systems, contractors, and critical infrastructure operators to PQC. Key milestones include federal agencies designating a PQC migration lead within 30 days, the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) issuing implementation guidance within 90 days, and the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) launching a PQC migration pilot project within 180 days. NIST had previously selected HQC as its fifth PQC algorithm in March 2025, broadening the available cryptographic options.
CHIPS Act Funding for Quantum Hardware: Complementing the executive orders, the Department of Commerce announced in May 2026 a $2 billion R&D funding package under the CHIPS Act, distributed among nine quantum companies. Notably, IBM is allocated $1 billion to establish a superconducting quantum foundry, and GlobalFoundries will receive $375 million to advance diverse quantum architectures. These investments underscore a targeted effort to bolster domestic quantum hardware manufacturing capabilities.

Background & Context

The rapid advancements in quantum computing pose an existential threat to current cryptographic standards, potentially compromising national security, economic stability, and critical infrastructure. The U.S. government’s updated National Quantum Strategy, emphasizing deployment, commercialization, and cyber resilience, is a direct response to this looming “Q-Day.” These new policy measures move beyond mere research support, pushing for practical, systemic security upgrades across all federal operations and extending compliance expectations to contractors and critical infrastructure. This proactive stance aims to ensure the U.S. maintains a competitive edge in the global quantum race, which is increasingly characterized by international competition for technological supremacy.

Strategic Significance & Outlook

These decisive actions by the U.S. government mark a pivotal moment in the quantum landscape. The blend of substantial financial investment and strict regulatory mandates is expected to catalyze innovation across the quantum ecosystem, driving both hardware and software development. The clear PQC migration deadlines will create a burgeoning market for PQC solutions, compelling not only government entities but also their vast network of private sector partners to rapidly invest in and implement quantum-safe technologies. This strategic pivot positions quantum computing as a mainstream technological imperative, transforming risk management and opening new avenues for economic growth and national defense, ultimately shaping the future of global technological leadership.

Source: https://www.wiley.law/alert-The-Next-Frontier-of-Quantum-Innovation-Key-Takeaways-from-President-Trumps-Quantum-and-Post-Quantum-Cryptography-Executive-Orders

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