Bid guide
How to bid on DARPA's Quantum Benchmarking Initiative (QBI) 2026
What DARPA is buying and why it matters
The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is looking for research proposals related to quantum computing. Specifically, they want innovative approaches to build large and useful fault-tolerant quantum computers and develop computational workflows that include quantum compute steps.
This initiative, called the Quantum Benchmarking Initiative (QBI), aims to achieve revolutionary advances in the design, engineering, testing, and evaluation of such systems. This is a significant opportunity for firms working on cutting-edge quantum technology, as DARPA is seeking solutions that go beyond incremental improvements to current practices.
Key dates and what happens at the deadline
This is an umbrella announcement published on November 14, 2025. The overall announcement closes on November 14, 2026, at 6:59 PM ET. However, this announcement itself is not a direct call for proposals.
Specific research topics, detailed instructions, and individual proposal due dates will be released later through separate announcements called "QBIT" calls. Only proposals submitted in response to a specific QBIT call will be considered. Proposals sent directly in response to this general announcement will not be reviewed.
Who this opportunity suits
This opportunity is best suited for research institutions, technology firms, and academic organizations with expertise in quantum computing, quantum physics, advanced computer architecture, and related fields. DARPA is looking for revolutionary approaches, not just evolutionary improvements.
Vendors should be prepared to propose innovative solutions for designing, engineering, testing, and evaluating utility-scale fault-tolerant quantum computers and their associated computational workflows. This falls under the professional services category, specifically advanced research and development.
How to access the opportunity
To view the original source of this announcement, click the "View original source" link. If the first click takes you to the portal's homepage, click the link again to go directly to the bid.
You may need to create a free account on the portal to view all associated documents, though for some bids, this may not be necessary.
Practical tips for preparing a competitive response
Since this is an umbrella announcement, your first step is to monitor for the release of specific QBIT calls. Once a relevant QBIT is released, carefully read all instructions, as each QBIT will have its own specific requirements and submission deadlines.
Focus your proposal on demonstrating truly innovative and revolutionary approaches to quantum computing challenges, as DARPA explicitly excludes research that only offers evolutionary improvements. Clearly articulate how your proposed solution addresses the specific research topic outlined in the QBIT and contributes to building utility-scale fault-tolerant quantum computers.
See the live bid — deadline, agency details, and how to respond
Dates and requirements can change via addenda; always verify on the bid page and at the original source before responding.
View this bid on BiddingSimpleThis guide was prepared by BiddingSimple from the solicitation’s public posting. It is not official guidance from Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (darpa); the original posting controls.