Trapped-ion quantum computing hardware developer IonQ (NYSE: IONQ) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with CMC Microsystems to integrate its commercial quantum systems into Canada’s FABrIC Quantum Computing Sandbox (QCS). The non-binding framework designates IonQ as an official cloud quantum access provider, enabling Canadian academic researchers, post-secondary institutions, and small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs) to execute algorithms on IonQ hardware.

                 [ Canada FABrIC Quantum Computing Sandbox Architecture ]
                                            │
     ┌──────────────────────────────────────┼──────────────────────────────────────┐
     ▼                                      ▼                                      ▼
  Federal Funding & Administration     Hardware & Cloud Infrastructure       Target Innovator Cohorts
  • $217M CAD FABrIC Initiative.       • IonQ Trapped-Ion Processors.        • Canadian Post-Secondary Researchers.
  • Strategic Response Fund (SRF).     • Up to $100k Access Grants/Project.  • Domestic For-Profit SMEs (<500 Empl).
  • Managed by CMC Microsystems.       • Dedicated Application Support.       • Indigenous & Non-Profit Tech Hubs.

The collaboration connects Canadian quantum software teams directly with commercial hardware infrastructure through the national sandbox program:

  • FABrIC Infrastructure Access: Managed by CMC Microsystems and backed by the Canadian government’s $217 million CAD FABrIC initiative (funded via the Strategic Response Fund), the Quantum Computing Sandbox provides direct cloud credits up to $100,000 per project alongside technical engineering support.
  • Commercial Hardware Deployment: Participating research teams and businesses can deploy algorithms across IonQ’s trapped-ion processors—including its high-fidelity generation architectures—targeting applications in quantum chemistry, materials science, financial modeling, and logistics optimization.
  • Intellectual Property Framework: Under the QCS terms, all intellectual property (IP) generated by researchers and companies during sandbox projects remains entirely the property of the participating developers, with no IP claims held by CMC Microsystems or platform providers.

Led by IonQ Vice President of Global Strategy Lisa Lambert and CMC Microsystems CEO Gordon Harling, the agreement expands domestic access channels within Canada’s national quantum technology strategy.

Review official investor updates on IonQ Investor Relations here, and explore sandbox application deadlines and program guides via FABrIC Innovation here.

August 18, 2026

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