Quantum computing is steadily transitioning from a theoretical concept to a groundbreaking tool for practical experimentation. For enterprise leaders, the challenge lies in understanding when and how to engage with these transformative technologies to stay ahead. To provide clarity on the state of quantum computing and its strategic implications, we spoke with Matteo Chiesa, Data & AI Director at BIP xTech.

Q: Which sectors are investing seriously in quantum computing, and where do you see more experimentation?

Matteo: In Europe, much of the momentum comes from public initiatives aimed at democratizing access to quantum technologies. These programs make it possible for companies of all sizes to test use cases without prohibitive upfront costs.

That said, some industries are already making more concrete progress. The pharmaceutical and chemical sectors, as well as some financial institutions, are clear leaders. Their work in molecular modeling and complex simulations is naturally aligned with what quantum does best. Pharmaceutical companies, in particular, have been tackling quantum problems for decades – long before quantum hardware existed. That experience allows them to integrate quantum tools more quickly and effectively today.

Q: Are there early adopters whose strategies others should learn from?

Matteo: Pharma is definitely a standout. Drug discovery and molecular research are inherently quantum problems, so the industry has already a proper mindset and a head start. Leading firms are already embedding quantum algorithms into their R&D workflows – for example, to simulate protein folding or accelerate molecular interaction studies.

Finance is another interesting case. Banks and insurers are beginning to explore quantum for portfolio optimization and risk analysis. These pilots are still small in scale, but they show how sectors dealing with complex optimization problems can learn from pharma’s structured approach to adoption.

Q: What are the main quantum computing technologies and platforms available today?

Matteo: The quantum computing landscape is incredibly diverse, reflecting the field’s early stage of development. While this diversity fuels innovation, it also poses challenges for organizations trying to select a specific technology.

IBM Q was one of the first to make quantum resources accessible through the cloud. D-Wave focuses on quantum annealing, which is particularly suited to combinatorial optimization. QuEra, a key partner of BIP xTech, develops neutral-atom quantum processors with strong potential for scaling both in annealing and in gate-based quantum computing.

This diversity drives innovation, but it also makes choices less straightforward for enterprises. The key is not to bet on one single technology, but to understand how different approaches fit specific business challenges.

Q: How can businesses prepare for the quantum era, even if the technology isn’t fully mature yet?

Matteo: Preparation starts with awareness and strong upskill. Quantum computing requires demanding basic competencies, thus companies, despite they may not need quantum physicists in-house right away, they do need to foster curiosity and upskill their teams to understand the basics. Building this literacy is essential for making informed decisions when opportunities arise.

The next step is to identify where quantum could make a difference – especially in industries facing complex optimization challenges, like supply chain or financial services. Starting with small, low-risk experiments is a good way to learn without overcommitting resources.

Finally, partnerships play a crucial role. Collaborating with technology providers and consulting firms allows businesses to experiment and build knowledge while the technology continues to mature.

Q: What tangible benefits can companies expect from quantum computing today?

Matteo: In the short term, results are narrow but real – think of targeted optimization problems or financial simulations where quantum methods have already shown improvements.

But the bigger benefit is strategic: companies that start early to build internal skills, adopt new problem-solving mindsets and position themselves for future opportunities will gain strategic advantage. Just as we saw with AI a decade ago, readiness is what separates leaders from followers once technology becomes mainstream.

Q: For which type of company does it make sense to take quantum seriously now?

Matteo: Any organization that deals with complex optimization, heavy R&D should begin exploring. Companies with DNA for experimenting new methodologies could enjoy themselves with Quantum Reservoir Computing and applications to Machine Learning. You don’t need to commit large budgets, but you do need to start the learning journey. That way, you’re ready to act when quantum computing becomes mainstream.

Quantum computing is no longer a distant concept – it’s becoming a tangible tool with early real-world applications. Learning from early adopters, understanding the technology landscape, and building the right partnerships today will define who captures tomorrow’s opportunities.

Ready to move from exploration to execution?

In our next article, we’ll look at how companies can start with low-risk pilots, measure success, and understand why the right partner makes all the difference. Read our next article: “From pilot to impact: how businesses can experiment with Quantum Computing”