Canada’s National Quantum
Strategy Survey
Final Report
Prepared for Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED)
Supplier Name: Nanos
Research
Contract Number: CW2343345
Contract
Value: $73,746.31 (including HST)
Award Date: 2023-12-27
Delivery Date: 2024-03-18
Registration
Number: POR 110-23
For more information on this report, please
contact Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada at: publicopinionresearch-recherchesurlopinionpublique@ised-isde.gc.ca
Ce rapport est aussi disponible en français.
Canada’s
National Quantum Strategy Survey
Final report
Prepared for Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) by Nanos Research
March 2024
This publication may be reproduced for
non-commercial purposes only. Prior written permission must be obtained from
Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada. For more information on
this report, please contact ISED at: publicopinionresearch-recherchesurlopinionpublique@ised-isde.gc.ca
© His Majesty the King in Right of Canada, as represented by the Minister of Public Services and Procurement Canada, 2024.
Catalogue Number:
IU4-434/2024E-PDF
International Standard Book Number
(ISBN): 978-0-660-71027-3
Aussi disponible en français sous le titre Sondage
sur la Stratégie quantique nationale du Canada.
Numéro de catalogue : IU4-434/2024F-PDF
Numéro international normalisé du livre (ISBN) : 978-0-660-71028-0
Table of Contents
D. Political neutrality statement and
contact information
Section 1 – Quantum Businesses
Section 3 – Quantum business and academia
A. Commercialization of technologies
B. Awareness and use of federal programming
C. National Quantum Strategy (NQS) Public Opinion
Appendix B: Survey questionnaire
This report begins with an executive summary outlining key findings and conclusions, followed by a detailed analysis of the quantitative results. A detailed set of “banner tables” is provided under a separate cover; this presents results for all survey questions by key segments such as region, size of organization and time in business/sector.
The quantitative results are expressed as percentages unless
otherwise noted.
Detailed
findings are presented in the sections that follow. Overall results are
presented in the main portion of the narrative and are typically supported by
graphic or tabular presentation of results. Net results cited in the text may not exactly
match individual results shown in the charts due to rounding. Results may not
add to 100% due to rounding or multiple responses.
The
bullets under the charts also note any significant differences between
sub-groups of respondents in different demographic groups.
The survey consisted of two streams: Stream 1: Industry/Non-profits and Stream 2: Academics. The following report contains findings from the two streams, and it is noted throughout whether the findings relate to the Industry stream and/or the Academic stream. Section 1 contains questions only asked of Stream 1 respondents, Section 2 contains questions only asked of Stream 2 respondents and Section 3 contains questions asked of both streams.
Details
of the methodology and sample characteristics can be found in Appendix A. The
final survey instrument can be found in Appendix B.
Quantum science, an emerging field at the forefront of research and innovation, holds immense potential to revolutionize various industries. From developing life-saving drugs to creating next-generation batteries, quantum technologies are set to reshape how we design and develop many things. Canadian scientists and entrepreneurs are poised to capitalize on these opportunities and become leaders in this fast-growing field.
The National Quantum Strategy (NQS) is an initiative to bolster Canada's quantum sector and ensure its prominent position among global frontrunners. The NQS revolves around three key pillars: research, talent and commercialization. Through strategic investments and targeted support, the NQS endeavours to achieve key missions in quantum computing hardware and software, communications and sensors.
Launched on January 13, 2023, the NQS aims to catalyse the growth of Canada's quantum sector and solidify its leadership in this transformative field. Specifically, the NQS seeks to amplify Canada's existing strength in quantum research, foster growth of quantum technologies and establish Canada as a global leader.
To fulfil its responsibilities and ensure the
effectiveness of the strategy, the NQS Secretariat has committed to addressing
data gaps and tracking progress. The NQS Secretariat hired Nanos Research to
conduct a quantitative survey, targeting two key groups: Canadian businesses
operating in the quantum field and academics specializing in quantum. The primary
objective of this research is to gain deeper insights into the Canadian quantum
ecosystem.
Objectives
· Filling identified data gaps and tracking key
performance indicators;
· Assessing critical aspects of the quantum
ecosystem, such as inter-sector collaboration, quantum products and service
adoption, the evolving quantum job market and quantum community awareness of
NQS programming; and,
· Providing a more comprehensive and data-driven
understanding of the quantum landscape in Canada.
The survey was conducted online and was
deployed to a list provided by ISED and a total of 112 individuals
participated. The sample included 66 individuals in businesses/non-profits in
the quantum sector (46 unique businesses) and 46 academics (23 unique
universities/institutes) in the quantum sector. For business/not-for-profits,
only one response per organization was included. The survey had a response rate
of 26%.
The survey consisted of two streams: Stream
1: Industry/Non-profits and Stream 2: Academics. The questionnaire consisted of
separate modules for each stream with questions asked that are relevant to
each, as well as several core questions which were the same for both streams.
The
fieldwork was conducted between February 21st and March 1st,
2024. Details on the rate of participation can be found in Appendix A, and the
questionnaire is provided in Appendix B.
The contract value was $73,746.31 (HST included).
Supplier name: Nanos Research
PWGSC contract number: CW2343345
Original contract date: 2024-12-27
For more information,
contact ISED at publicopinionresearch-recherchesurlopinionpublique@ised-isde.gc.ca
I hereby certify, as a Representative of Nanos
Research, that the deliverables fully comply with the Government of Canada
political neutrality requirements outlined in the Government of Canada’s Policy
on Communications and Federal Identity and Directive on the Management of
Communications. Specifically, the deliverables do not include information on
electoral voting intentions, political party preferences, party standings with
the electorate, or ratings of the performance of a political party or its
leaders.
Nik Nanos
Chief Data Scientist and
President
Nanos Research
(613) 234-4666 x237
The survey consisted of two streams: Stream 1: Industry/Non-profits and Stream 2: Academics. The following key findings and report contain findings from the two streams, and it is noted throughout which stream the findings relate to.
Industry and academic respondents most often report they or their organization conducts research and development related to all of the quantum areas, in roughly similar proportions. Quantum sensors was identified as an area of R&D for 48% of academics; and 39% of industry respondents, quantum communications and cryptography by 44% each of academics and industry respondents, and quantum computing hardware (41% of academics; and 46% of industry respondents) and quantum materials (37%).
Almost all industry (95%) and academic (96%) respondents report collaboration with other players in the ecosystem. Academic respondents most often report collaborating with universities and colleges in Canada the most (87%), followed by universities and colleges in other countries (78%), companies located in Canada (67%), and Canadian research institutes (61%). Only four percent of academics report they do not collaborate with any of these entities. Similarly, industry respondents most often report collaborating with universities and colleges in Canada (85%), as well as companies located in Canada (77%), companies located outside of Canada (71%) and Canadian federal government laboratories (64%). Just five percent of industry respondents report their organization does not collaborate with any of these entities.
Both industry and academic respondents rate collaborations with universities and colleges in Canada as important (academics: mean score of 8.5 out of 10; industry: mean score of 7.9), however, industry respondents also rate companies inside (mean of 8.2) and outside of Canada (mean of 8.1) as most important. Academics are more likely to think collaborations with universities and colleges outside of Canada is important (mean of 7.9) than industry respondents (mean of 6.1).
In terms of the main benefits to these collaborations, both academic and industry respondents often mention innovation, advancing knowledge and the sharing of new ideas as the primary benefits (35% of academics; 37% of industry respondents). Additionally, both groups mention that the main output from these collaborations has been ongoing research collaboration or just ongoing collaboration (93% of academics; 79% of industry respondents).
Talent
Fifty-seven per cent of academic respondents report their department has tried to hire a new faculty member in quantum in the past six months, while more than two in three industry/non-profit respondents report their organization has tried to fill positions in the last six months for which a quantum science and technology background is important (69%). Industry respondents report the search took place primarily within Canada (89%), followed by the US (44%) or Europe (40%) and close to eight in ten say their organization is likely (61%) or somewhat likely (18%) to hire candidates in the next six months.
Sixty-one per cent of industry respondents report their organization found qualified Canadian candidates that met their needs (61%), and 64% report their organization filled some (42%) or all (22%) of the positions they were hiring for. Industry respondents said the most effective recruiting tools were social media (including LinkedIn) (64%), job posting websites (i.e., monster.ca, Indeed) (38%) and a recruiting agency (27%).
When industry respondents were asked what the biggest barriers are to hiring for their organization, top responses included a lack of qualified candidates (36%), candidate expectations (i.e., salary and benefits) (27%) and immigration barriers (22%). Industry respondents feel the biggest shortages of qualified candidates in the sector are in quantum computing hardware (49%), quantum communications and cryptography (47%), quantum software (46%) and quantum sensors (44%).
Industry respondents noted women were the top reported underrepresented group present in their organization’s workforce (86%), followed by racialized persons (72%) and the 2SLGBTQIA+ community (49%). The biggest challenges to have a diverse workforce included: few diverse candidates available to fill jobs and a lack of qualified candidates in a field that is already not diverse (43%), and that skills and talent are more important (19%).
Nine in ten academic respondents say they are likely (80%) or somewhat likely (11%) to remain in Canada in the next five years to pursue their research and say funding opportunities (mean score of 8.9 out of 10) and quality of life (mean of 8.8) are the top factors that are most important when choosing where to conduct their research. Similarly, a majority of industry respondents say their company or organization is likely (71%) or somewhat likely (14%) to remain in Canada for the next five years.
Regarding underrepresented groups included in the workforce of their academic department, respondents most often report that women are represented in their department (58%), followed by racialized persons (42%), 2SLGBTQIA+ community members (33%), and persons with disabilities (22%), while 27% report none of these groups are represented.
In terms of the main challenges related to hiring
a more diverse workforce, the top response for both industry and academics is
that there are few diverse candidates available to fill jobs and a lack of
applications (43% of industry respondents; 41% of academics).
Commercialization of
research
Over half (55%) of the respondents in both industry and academic streams report they have filed a patent related to quantum technology. Additionally, more than three in four industry and academic respondents report they have engaged potential end users of their product and/or service within the past year (78%), with industry respondents more likely to report having done this (88%) than academic respondents (64%).
When asked about the level of interest potential end users have in adopting quantum technologies, nearly all industry and academic respondents say end users are interested (63%) or somewhat interested (34%), but they are less likely to say end users are comfortable (20%) or somewhat comfortable (49%) with adopting quantum products or services.
Examining barriers to end users adopting quantum
solutions, industry respondents most often said that use cases are still being
proven and not adopted widely yet (21%), it is too early for adoption, and their
work or technology is not ready yet (20%) and that there is a lack of knowledge
and understanding of the technology by end users (20%). When academics were asked
about barriers preventing the commercialization of their research, a similar
sentiment was shared, as they also often said that it is too early and the work
or technology is not ready yet (27%), followed by not being interested in
commercializing it (18%).
Awareness and use of federal
programs
Overall, both industry and
academic respondents rate themselves as knowledgeable (71%, score of 7-10) of
how federal programming can support quantum research and development (mean of
7.4 out of 10).
Survey respondents indicated a high level of awareness
of many federal quantum related programs supporting commercialization, for
example, a majority of industry and academic respondents report having heard of
the NRC Industrial Research Assistance Program (IRAP) (87%), followed by the
NRC Challenge Program (84%) and the Innovation for Defence Excellence and
Security (IDEaS)(81%). Industry and academic respondents who had heard of these
programs were most likely to report having applied for and received funding
from IRAP (37%), Innovative Solutions Canada (ISC) (36%) and Regional
Development Agency funding (30%). Industry and academic respondents noted that
the application or approval process for these federal programs supporting
commercialization are too long or complex (20%) and there are too many
requirements, and they should be relaxed (10%).
In terms of federal programs that support research, both
industry and academic respondents were most likely to report having heard of
the NSERC Alliance Quantum federal program(87%), while two in three report they
have heard of the Canadian Institute for Advanced Research (67%) and just over
one in ten report awareness of the Bank of Canada PIVOT program (12%). One in
three of industry and academic respondents who have heard of the NSERC Alliance
Quantum program report they applied for and received funding (32%; 21% report
they have applied, and the decision is pending), while two in ten say the same
for the Canadian Institute for Advanced Research (20%). When asked for comments
on their engagements with these federal programs, industry and academic respondents
mentioned the Alliance program doesn’t fund companies or the private sector
(24%) and nine percent said CIFAR doesn’t have open calls for funding, and it
is invitation only.
For federal programs that support talent, nearly all industry
and academic respondents reported having heard of the Mitacs program (98%),
while more than three in four had heard of NSERC Create (77%). More than half
of industry and academic respondents who have heard of Mitacs report they have
applied for and received funding (59%), while three in ten have received
funding from NSERC Create (31%; 11% report they applied but did not receive
funding). One in four industry and academic respondents each commented that the
federal programs supporting talents are good programs and they have applied
successfully (25%), that the programs are difficult to apply for or have too
many requirements (25%), that the programs don’t apply to industry and they
must go through academia to apply (25%).
Views
on the National Quantum Strategy (NQS)
Nearly all industry and academic respondents (98%)
reported being aware of that Canada released its National Quantum Strategy
(NQS) in January 2023, with close to one in two of those aware of the strategy,
saying they are satisfied with the three main aspects of the NQS: making Canada
a world leader in the continued development, deployment and use of quantum
computing hardware and software (54% satisfied, score of 7-10), ensuring the
privacy and cyber security of Canadians in a quantum enabled world, through a
national secure quantum communications network and a post-quantum cryptography
initiative (51% satisfied) and enabling the government and key industries to be
developers and early adopters of new quantum technologies (47% satisfied).
Over two in three industry and academic respondents
who have heard of the NQS agree (22%) or somewhat agree (47%) that the NQS
missions create clear priorities for quantum in Canada, while one in four
somewhat disagree (16%) or disagree (10%). When asked why they have that
opinion (either positive or negative), industry and academic respondents
mentioned the objectives being very broad (26%), not enough funding or issues
with funding (13%) and the implementation being slow or having issues with
implementation (12%).
A majority of industry and
academic respondents aware of the NQS (86%) report they have received
information from the Federal Government concerning events related to the NQS,
including workshops, roundtables and missions.
This section included general questions to help profile responding organizations.
Industry respondents most often reported their head offices were located in Ontario (54%), the West (27%) or Quebec (20%). The majority (56%) reporting having offices in other locations, including in Canada, especially Ontario (29%) or Quebec (20%). Almost a third (32.3%) reporting having offices abroad, including in the USA (8.5%) and UK (5.1%). In addition, respondents identified that their remote workers were located Ontario (48%) or Quebec (32%), while 27 per cent report their organization has no remote employees.
Half of business respondents
(50%) responded that their organization has 1 to 9 full time staff (including
themselves) employed in Canada working on quantum technologies, while 20% have
10 to 19 full-time employees, and 15% report 20 to 29 employees. About one
third of respondents report their organization has been in business for less
than 5 years (32%) or for 5 to 9 years (34%), while 20% responded that their organization has been in business 20 years or
more.
Q4 – Does your
organization have offices in other provinces and territories that work on
quantum technologies? (please
specify)
Select all options that apply.
Location(s) of
other offices
Location |
Total |
No other
locations |
44.1% |
Ontario |
28.8% |
Quebec |
20.3% |
Alberta |
13.6% |
British
Columbia |
13.6% |
U.S.A |
8.5% |
U.K. |
5.1% |
Several
countries/worldwide |
5.1% |
Europe |
3.4% |
Japan |
3.4% |
Manitoba |
1.7% |
New Brunswick |
1.7% |
Newfoundland
and Labrador |
1.7% |
Nova Scotia |
1.7% |
Northwest
Territories |
1.7% |
Nunavut |
1.7% |
Prince Edward
Island |
1.7% |
Saskatchewan |
1.7% |
Yukon |
1.7% |
Germany |
1.7% |
Ireland |
1.7% |
Hong Kong |
1.7% |
France |
1.7% |
Base: Individuals in industry or non-profits in the quantum sector, n=59,
based on multiple mentions.
Q5 – Does your
organization have remote employees in any of the following provinces and
territories that work on quantum technologies? (please specify) Select all
options that apply.
Location of remote employees
Location |
Total |
Ontario |
47.5% |
Quebec |
32.2% |
No remote
employees |
27.1% |
British
Columbia |
22.0% |
Alberta |
18.6% |
U.S.A |
13.6% |
UK |
6.8% |
Global/several
countries |
5.1% |
Japan |
3.4% |
New Brunswick |
1.7% |
Nova Scotia |
1.7% |
Saskatchewan |
1.7% |
Romania |
1.7% |
Poland |
1.7% |
India |
1.7% |
France |
1.7% |
Europe |
1.7% |
Germany |
1.7% |
Belgium |
1.7% |
China |
1.7% |
Base: Individuals in industry or non-profits in the quantum sector, n=59,
based on multiple mentions.
Q6 – Including yourself, approximately how many full-time staff does
your organization employ in Canada that work on quantum technologies?
Number of full-time
employees
Number |
Total |
1 to 9 |
50.0% |
10 to 19 |
19.7% |
20 to 29 |
15.2% |
30 to 39 |
3.0% |
40 to 49 |
1.5% |
100 or more |
10.6% |
Base: Individuals in industry or non-profits in the quantum sector, n=66
Q7 – How many years has your
organization been in business?
Years in
business
Years |
Total |
Less than 5 years |
32.3% |
5 to 9 years |
33.8% |
10 to 14 years |
10.8% |
15 to 19 years |
3.1% |
20 years or more |
20.0% |
Base: Individuals in industry or non-profits in the quantum sector, n=65
Industry respondents most often report their organization conducts research and development related to quantum computing hardware (46%), quantum communication cryptography (44%), quantum sensors (39%) and quantum software (35%).
In terms of collaboration with various entities, industry respondents report their organization collaborates with universities and colleges in Canada the most (85%), followed by companies located in Canada (77%), companies located outside of Canada (71%) and Canadian federal government laboratories (64%). Just five percent report their organization does not collaborate with any of these entities.
The highest level of importance for collaborations with their organization was given to companies located inside (mean of 8.2 out of 10) or outside of Canada (mean of 8.1 out of 10), followed by universities and colleges in Canada (mean of 7.9). Although, still more likely to be seen as important rather than not important, collaborations with universities and colleges in other countries received a relatively lower importance score (mean of 6.1 out of 10).
Main benefits to collaborations were seen as innovation and advancing research and development in Canada (37%), followed by a knowledge and information exchange (18%) and access to talent (16%). In addition, those who report their organization collaborates said that the main outputs from these collaborations are ongoing collaboration (79%), an expanded network (70%), a prototype (54%), a market ready product or service (51%), a publication (46%) and a conference presentation (43%).
Q8 – In which areas does your organization conduct
research and development in quantum technologies? [SELECT ALL THAT APPLY]
Areas of
research and development
Area |
Total |
Quantum
computing hardware |
45.5% |
Quantum
communications and cryptography |
43.9% |
Quantum sensors |
39.4% |
Quantum
software |
34.8% |
Quantum
materials |
13.6% |
Quantum
technologies (general) |
4.5% |
Market Research |
1.5% |
AI |
1.5% |
Photonics |
1.5% |
Banking sector |
1.5% |
Deep Technology |
1.5% |
Fibre optics |
1.5% |
Quantum
training and education |
1.5% |
Economic
development |
1.5% |
Investments in
quantum |
1.5% |
Base: Individuals in industry or non-profits in the quantum sector, n=66,
based on multiple mentions
Q9 – Does your organization collaborate
with the following entities? [RANDOMIZE] [SELECT ALL THAT APPLY]
Collaborating
with entities
Type
of entity |
Total |
Universities/colleges
in Canada |
84.8% |
Companies
located in Canada |
77.3% |
Companies
located outside of Canada |
71.2% |
Canadian
Federal government laboratories such as the National Research Council |
63.6% |
Canadian
research institutes such as the Institute for Quantum Computing |
54.5% |
Universities/colleges
in other countries |
48.5% |
Government
laboratories or international research institutes in other countries, such as
the U.S. Department of Energy |
42.4% |
None of the
above |
4.5% |
Base: Individuals in industry or non-profits in the quantum sector, n=66,
based on multiple mentions
Q10-16 – On a scale from 0 to 10, where 0 is not at
all important and 10 is very important, how important is it for your
organization to collaborate with the following entities to advance your
research interests? [RANDOMIZE]
Importance of
collaborations
Type
of entity (n=66) |
Mean |
Not important (0-3) |
Neutral (4-6) |
Very Important (7-10) |
Companies
located in Canada |
8.2 |
3.1% |
14.1% |
78.1% |
Companies
located outside of Canada |
8.1 |
6.3% |
9.4% |
78.1% |
Universities/colleges
in Canada |
7.9 |
9.2% |
9.2% |
80.0% |
Canadian
Federal government laboratories such as the NRC |
7.4 |
9.4% |
15.6% |
70.3% |
Canadian
research institutes such as the Institute for Quantum Computing |
7.3 |
11.1% |
17.5% |
63.5% |
Government laboratories
or international research institutes in other countries, such as the U.S.
Department of Energy |
7.1 |
12.9% |
21.0% |
59.7% |
Universities/colleges
in other countries |
6.1 |
22.6% |
25.8% |
48.4% |
Base: Individuals in industry or non-profits in the quantum sector, n=66
Q17 – [IF COLLABORATES WITH ANY ORGS
IN Q8] What is the main benefit for your organization, if any, of these
collaborations? [OPEN]
Main benefits of
collaboration
Benefit |
Total |
Innovation/Advance
research and development |
37.3% |
Knowledge/Information
exchange |
17.6% |
Access to
talent |
15.7% |
Building an
ecosystem |
7.8% |
Risk management |
7.8% |
Revenue |
5.9% |
Reducing
workload |
2.0% |
Validation of
technology |
2.0% |
Other |
3.9% |
Base: Individuals in industry or non-profits in the quantum sector, n=51
respondents who collaborate with at least one type of entity.
Q18 – [IF COLLABORATES WITH ANY ORG IN
Q8] What has been the main output of these collaborations? [SELECT ALL THAT
APPLY] [RANDOMIZE]
Main output
from collaborations
Output |
Total |
Ongoing
collaboration |
79.4% |
Expanded
network |
69.8% |
Prototype |
54.0% |
Market-ready
product or service |
50.8% |
Publication |
46.0% |
Conference
Presentation |
42.9% |
Patent |
30.2% |
Sales |
3.2% |
Promoting
business success |
1.6% |
Hiring |
1.6% |
White paper |
1.6% |
Base: Individuals in industry or non-profits in the quantum sector, n=63
respondents who collaborate with at least one type of entity, based on multiple
mentions.
Q19 – [IF DOES NOT COLLABORATE WITH
ANY ORGS IN Q8] What is the main barrier, if any, preventing your organization
from collaborating? [OPEN]
NOTE: This
data has been suppressed due to a sample size of less than 30.
More than two in three industry/non-profit respondents report their organization has tried to fill positions in the last six months for which a quantum science and technology background is important (69%), with the search taking place primarily within Canada (89%), followed by the US (44%) or Europe (40%). In addition, close to eight in ten say their organization is likely (61%) or somewhat likely (18%) to hire candidates in the next six months.
More than three in five report their organization found qualified Canadian candidates that met their needs (61%), and a similar proportion report their organization filled some (42%) or all (22%) of the positions they were hiring for, while another one in five say the process is still ongoing (22%).
Respondents said the most effective recruiting tools were social media (including LinkedIn) (64%), job posting websites (i.e., monster.ca, Indeed) (38%) and a recruiting agency (27%). When asked what the biggest barriers are to hiring for their organization, top responses included a lack of qualified candidates (36%), candidate expectations (i.e., salary and benefits) (27%) and immigration barriers (22%).
Examining areas where respondents feel there are the biggest shortages of qualified candidates in the sector, top responses were quantum computing hardware (49%), quantum communications and cryptography (47%), quantum software (46%) and quantum sensors (44%).
Women
were the top reported underrepresented group present in their organization’s
workforce (86%), followed by racialized persons (72%) and the 2SLGBTQIA+ community (49%). When asked what the biggest challenges
are to have a diverse workforce, respondents most often mentioned there are few
diverse candidates available to fill jobs and a lack of qualified candidates in
a field that is already not diverse (43%), and that skills and talent are more
important (19%).
Q20 – How likely or unlikely is your organization to remain in Canada in
the next five years?
Likelihood of
remaining in Canada
Likelihood |
Total |
Likely |
71.2% |
Somewhat likely |
13.6% |
Somewhat unlikely |
4.5% |
Unlikely |
1.5% |
Unsure |
9.1% |
Base: Individuals in industry or non-profits in the quantum sector, n=66
Q21 – In the past six months,
has your organization tried to fill positions for which a quantum science and
technology background is important?
Tried to fill
position in last six months
Tried to fill position |
Total |
Yes |
69.2% |
No |
26.2% |
Unsure |
4.6% |
Base: Individuals in industry or non-profits in the quantum sector, n=66
Q22 – Where
was your organization’s search mainly conducted? [SELECT ALL THAT APPLY]
Primary location
of search
Location |
Total |
Domestic (in Canada) |
88.9% |
USA |
44.4% |
Europe |
40.0% |
Asia |
13.3% |
Global |
4.4% |
Base: Individuals in industry or non-profits in the quantum sector, n=45
respondents whose organization has tried to fill a position in the last six
months, based on multiple mentions
Q23 – Were there any
qualified Canadian candidates that met your organization’s needs?
Qualified
Canadian candidates meeting needs of organization
Qualified Canadian
candidates |
Total |
Yes |
61.4% |
No |
25.0% |
Unsure |
13.6% |
Base: Individuals in industry or non-profits in the quantum sector, n=44
respondents whose organization has tried to fill a position in the last six
months.
Q24 – What
recruiting tools were the most helpful for your organization to find qualified
candidates? [SELECT ALL THAT APPLY]
Effective recruiting
tools used in search
Tools |
Total |
Social media
[LinkedIn] |
64.4% |
Job posting
websites [monster.ca, Indeed, etc.] |
37.8% |
Recruiting
agency |
26.7% |
Personal network/
Personal connection |
15.6% |
Internal
recruiters |
4.4% |
Research
organization [MITACS] |
2.2% |
Online research |
2.2% |
Word of mouth |
2.2% |
Our website |
2.2% |
Unsure |
6.7% |
Base: Individuals in industry or non-profits in the quantum sector, n=45
respondents whose organization has tried to fill a position in the last six
months, based on multiple mentions
Q25 – What was
the result of the hiring process? [select one]
Result of
hiring process
Result |
Total |
My organization filled some of the positions we were
hiring |
42.2% |
My organization filled all of the positions we were
hiring |
22.2% |
The process is still ongoing |
22.2% |
My organization did not fill any of the positions we
were hiring |
8.9% |
Unsure |
4.4% |
Base: Individuals in industry or non-profits in the quantum sector, n=45
respondents whose organization has tried to fill a position in the last six
months.
Q26 – What was the main barrier, if any, to hiring someone to work at
your organization? [RANDOMIZE][select one]
Main barrier
to hiring
Barrier |
Total |
Lack of qualified candidates |
35.6% |
Candidate expectations (e.g., salary, benefits) |
26.7% |
Immigration barriers |
22.2% |
Candidates unwilling to relocate |
6.7% |
None |
2.2% |
Unsure |
6.7% |
Base: Individuals in industry or non-profits in the quantum sector, n=45
respondents whose organization has tried to fill a position in the last six
months.
Q27 – In the next six months, how likely or unlikely is your
organization to hire people for positions where a quantum science and
technology background is important?
Likelihood of
hiring in the next six months
Likelihood |
Total |
Likely |
60.6% |
Somewhat likely |
18.2% |
Somewhat unlikely |
9.1% |
Unlikely |
9.1% |
Unsure |
3.0% |
Base: Individuals in industry or non-profits in the quantum sector, n=66
Q28 – From the list below, please identify areas of quantum technologies for
which there is a shortage of skilled people in Canada. [select all that apply] [RANDOMIZE]
Area(s) with
shortage of skilled people in Canada
Area |
Total |
Quantum
computing hardware |
48.5% |
Quantum
communications and cryptography |
47.0% |
Quantum
software |
45.5% |
Quantum sensors |
43.9% |
Quantum
materials |
33.3% |
Engineering/Technology |
7.6% |
Market
research/product development |
4.5% |
Cryogenics |
3.0% |
Biology |
1.5% |
Unsure |
15.2% |
Base: Individuals
in industry or non-profits in the quantum sector, n=66, based on multiple
mentions
Q29 – Which of the following
groups, if any, are represented in your organization’s workforce? [RANDOMIZE]
Groups in
organization’s workforce
Group |
Total |
Women |
86.2% |
Racialized
persons [persons, other than Aboriginal peoples, who are non-Caucasian in
race or non-white in colour] |
72.3% |
2SLGBTQIA+
community |
49.2% |
Persons with
disabilities |
27.7% |
Indigenous
people |
16.9% |
None of the
above |
6.2% |
Unsure |
4.6% |
Base: Individuals in industry or non-profits in the quantum sector, n=66,
based on multiple mentions.
Q30 – What is the biggest
challenge, if any, for your organization when hiring a more diverse workforce?
[OPEN]
Challenges to
hiring a more diverse workforce
Challenges |
Total |
Few diverse
candidates available to fill jobs/lack of qualified candidates/field is not
diverse |
42.9% |
Skills/talent
and experience are more important |
19.0% |
Not a
challenge/no issues |
7.1% |
Immigration
concerns (speed of arrival) |
4.8% |
Connecting to
Indigenous communities/finding Indigenous candidates |
4.8% |
Diversity is
not always visible/we do not ask (ex. Sexual orientation) |
4.8% |
Money |
4.8% |
We have a
strong DEI policy/ensure we abide by it |
4.8% |
Other |
4.8% |
Unsure |
2.4% |
Base: Individuals in industry or non-profits in the quantum sector, n=42
This section included general questions related to the role, tenure and demographics of academic respondents.
Academic respondents were located in Quebec (38%), followed by Ontario (33%) and the West (27%), with 2% from Atlantic Canada.
Regarding underrepresented groups included in the workforce of their department, respondents most often report that women are represented in their department (58%), followed by racialized persons (42%), 2SLGBTQIA+ community members (33%), and persons with disabilities (22%), while 27% report none of these groups are represented.
In terms of their role within academia, most respondents are a Professor
(83%), followed by a researcher (4%) or a graduate student (2%), and they most
have been in the field of quantum technologies for 20 years or more (69%).
Q31
– What is your role within academia?
Role within
academia
Role |
Total |
Professor
(include Associate, Assistant, Professor) |
82.6% |
Researcher |
4.3% |
Graduate
student |
2.2% |
Other |
10.9% |
Base: Individuals in academia in the quantum sector, n=46
Q33 – How many years have you
been working/studying in this field?
Number of
years spent in the field
Years |
Total |
5 to 9 years |
11.1% |
10 to 14 years |
11.1% |
15 to 19 years |
8.9% |
20 years or
more |
68.9% |
Base: Individuals in academia in the quantum sector, n=45
Q34 – Which of the following
groups, if any, are represented in your department’s workforce? [RANDOMIZE]
Groups in
department’s workforce
Group |
Total |
Women |
57.8% |
Racialized
persons [persons, other than Aboriginal peoples, who are non-Caucasian in
race or non-white in colour] |
42.2% |
2SLGBTQIA+
community |
33.3% |
Persons with
disabilities |
22.2% |
Indigenous
people |
6.7% |
None of the
above |
26.7% |
Unsure |
13.3% |
Base: Individuals in academia in the quantum sector, n=45, based on
multiple mentions.
Respondents in the academia stream most often report conducting research and development related to quantum sensors (48%), quantum communications and cryptography (44%), quantum computing hardware (41%) and quantum materials (37%).
Regarding collaborations, academic respondents most often report collaborating with universities and colleges in Canada (87%), followed by universities and colleges in other countries (78%), companies located in Canada (67%) and Canadian research institutes (61%). Only four percent report they do not collaborate with any of these entities.
Academic respondents rate collaboration with universities and colleges in Canada as the most important type of collaboration (mean score of 8.5 out of 10), followed by universities and colleges in other countries (mean of 7.9), Canadian research institutes (mean of 7.4) and companies located in Canada (mean of 7.4).
The main benefits to these collaborations, according to respondents, are the advancement of knowledge, sharing new ideas, and enabling breakthroughs (35%) and complementary and specialized expertise (24%). Meanwhile, those who do collaborate said the main outputs from these collaborations are ongoing research collaboration (93%), a publication (84%), a conference presentation (68%) and an expanded network (66%).
Q35 – In which areas do you conduct research and development in quantum
technologies? [select all that apply][RANDOMIZE]
Area(s) of
research and development
Area |
Total |
Quantum sensors |
47.8% |
Quantum
communications and cryptography |
43.5% |
Quantum
computing hardware |
41.3% |
Quantum
materials |
37.0% |
Quantum
software |
32.6% |
Quantum
information and theories |
4.3% |
Not
Applicable/I do not conduct research |
2.2% |
Economics |
2.2% |
Quantum
Simulation |
2.2% |
Quantum
Algorithms |
2.2% |
Base: Individuals in academia in the quantum sector, n=46, based on
multiple mentions.
Q36 – What department in the
university/college are you with?
Department at
university/college
Area |
Total |
Physics |
41.3% |
Mathematics |
15.2% |
Engineering |
15.2% |
Administration/Policy |
8.7% |
Institute/Central |
8.7% |
Chemistry |
6.5% |
Computer Science |
4.3% |
Base: Individuals in academia in the quantum sector, n=46
Q37 – In quantum research, do you collaborate
with the following entities? [RANDOMIZE] [SELECT ALL THAT APPLY]
Collaborating
with entities
Type
of entity |
Total |
Universities/colleges
in Canada |
87.0% |
Universities/colleges
in other countries |
78.3% |
Companies
located in Canada |
67.4% |
Canadian
research institutes such as the Institute for Quantum Computing |
60.9% |
Companies
located outside of Canada |
47.8% |
Canadian
Federal government laboratories such as the National Research Council |
47.8% |
Government
laboratories or international research institutes in other countries, such as
the U.S. Department of Energy |
43.5% |
None of the
above |
4.3% |
Base: Individuals in academia in the quantum sector, n=46, based on
multiple mentions.
Q38-44 – On a scale from 0 to 10, where 0
is not at all important and 10 is very important, how important is it for you
to collaborate with the following entities to advance your research interests?
[RANDOMIZE]
Importance of
collaborations
Type
of entity (n=44) |
Mean |
Not important (0-3) |
Neutral (4-6) |
Very Important (7-10) |
Universities/colleges
in Canada |
8.5 |
2.2% |
11.1% |
82.2% |
Universities/colleges
in other countries |
7.9 |
8.7% |
8.7% |
80.4% |
Canadian
research institutes such as the Institute for Quantum Computing |
7.4 |
13.3% |
20.0% |
62.2% |
Companies
located in Canada |
7.4 |
9.1% |
18.2% |
70.5% |
Government
laboratories and international research institutes in other countries, such
as the U.S. Department of Energy |
6.8 |
14.0% |
20.9% |
58.1% |
Canadian
Federal government laboratories such as the NRC |
6.4 |
19.6% |
21.7% |
52.2% |
Companies located
outside of Canada |
5.8 |
23.3% |
20.9% |
53.5% |
Base: Individuals in academia in the quantum sector, n=44
Q45 – [IF COLLABORATES WITH ANY ORG IN Q36] What is
the main benefit for you, if any, of these collaborations? [OPEN]
Main benefits
to collaboration
Benefit |
Total |
Advancement of
knowledge/sharing new ideas/enabling breakthroughs |
35.1% |
Complementary/specialized
expertise |
24.3% |
Bigger
scale/cutting edge research/bigger source of sample |
16.2% |
Access to
funding |
8.1% |
Access to
technology |
8.1% |
Publications/recognition |
5.4% |
Ownership of IP |
2.7% |
Base: Individuals in academia in the quantum sector, n=37 respondents
who collaborates with at least one type of entity.
Q46 – [IF COLLABORATES WITH ANY ORG IN Q36] What has
been the main output of these collaborations? [SELECT ALL THAT APPLY] [RANDOMIZE]
Main output
from collaborations
Output |
Total |
Ongoing
research collaboration |
93.2% |
Publication |
84.1% |
Conference Presentation |
68.2% |
Expanded
network |
65.9% |
Patent |
25.0% |
Prototype |
18.2% |
Market-ready
product or service |
15.9% |
Training/student
exchange |
4.5% |
Other |
2.3% |
Unsure |
2.3% |
Base: Individuals in academia in the quantum sector, n=44 respondents
who collaborates with at least one type of entity, based on multiple mentions
Q47 – [IF DOES NOT COLLABORATE WITH
ANY ORG IN Q36] What is the main barrier, if any, preventing you from
collaborating? [OPEN]
NOTE: This data
has been suppressed due to a sample size of less than 30.
Nine in ten academic respondents say they are likely (80%) or somewhat likely (11%) to remain in Canada in the next five years to pursue their research, mentioning funding opportunities (mean score of 8.9 out of 10) and quality of life (mean of 8.8) as the top factors that are most important when choosing where to conduct their research.
Close to three in five academic respondents (57%) report their department has tried to hire a new faculty member in quantum in the past six months.
In
terms of challenges related to hiring a more diverse workforce, the top
response was there are few diverse candidates available to fill jobs and a lack
of applications (41%), while 13 percent each mentioned a lack of diversity in
hiring committee and competition from other fields.
Q48 – How likely or unlikely are you to remain in Canada in the next
five years to pursue your research?
Likelihood of
remaining in Canada
Likelihood |
Total |
Likely |
80.0% |
Somewhat likely |
11.1% |
Somewhat unlikely |
4.4% |
Unsure |
4.4% |
Base: Individuals in academia in the quantum sector, n=45
Q49-56 – On a scale from 0 to 10, where 0 is not at
all important and 10 is very important, how important or not important are the
following factors to you when choosing where to conduct your research?
[RANDOMIZE]
Importance of
factors
Factors
(n=45) |
Mean |
Not important (0-3) |
Neutral (4-6) |
Very Important (7-10) |
Funding
opportunities |
8.9 |
2.2% |
4.3% |
93.5% |
Quality
of life |
8.8 |
- |
6.7% |
93.3% |
Reputation
of institution |
8.3 |
2.2% |
6.5% |
89.1% |
Strength
of the local quantum community |
8.2 |
2.2% |
15.2% |
82.6% |
Professional
connections |
8.1 |
6.5% |
6.5% |
87.0% |
Salary |
7.8 |
2.2% |
13.3% |
84.4% |
National
Moonshot programs |
6.1 |
22.2% |
17.8% |
46.7% |
Base: Individuals in academia in the quantum sector, n=45
Q57 – Has your department
attempted to hire a new faculty member in quantum in the past six months?
Tried to fill
position in last six months
Tried to fill position |
Total |
Yes |
56.5% |
No |
39.1% |
Unsure |
4.3% |
Base: Individuals in academia in the quantum sector, n=46
Result of
hiring process
Q58 – What was the result of the hiring process? [select one]
NOTE: This data has
been suppressed due to a sample size of less than 30.
Main barrier
to hiring
Q59 – What was the main barrier, if any, to hiring a new faculty member
to work in your department? [RANDOMIZE][select one]
NOTE: This data has been suppressed due to a sample size of less than
30.
Q30 – What is the biggest
challenge, if any, for your organization when hiring a more diverse workforce?
[OPEN]
Challenges to
hiring a more diverse workforce
Challenges |
Total |
Few diverse
candidates available to fill jobs/lack of applications |
40.6% |
Lack of
diversity in hiring committee |
12.5% |
Competition
from other fields |
12.5% |
No issue |
9.4% |
Toxic work
environment, colleagues |
6.3% |
Lack of
qualified candidates/not as many people in the field |
6.3% |
No strategy in
place |
3.1% |
Salary |
3.1% |
Lack of
capacity for training |
3.1% |
Not a desirable
location |
3.1% |
Base: Individuals in academia in the quantum sector, n=32
Academic respondents were more likely
to report engaging in both fundamental and applied research (48%) than mainly
on fundamental (35%) or applied (17%) by themselves. Just over half of
respondents reported they do not work at a quantum company (57%), while close
to one in four report they work at one as an Executive or a Board Member (26%).
Q61 – Are you primarily engaged in fundamental or applied research?
Type of
research engaged in
Type of research |
Total |
Both fundamental and applied research |
47.8% |
Fundamental research |
34.8% |
Applied research |
17.4% |
Base: Individuals in academia in the quantum sector, n=46
Q62 – In addition to your primary work in academia, do you also currently play
any role for a quantum company? [select one]
Role in
quantum company
Role |
Total |
No, I do not work at a quantum company |
56.5% |
Yes, I work at a quantum company as an Executive or
Board Member |
26.1% |
Yes, I work at a quantum company as a consultant |
15.2% |
Yes, I work at a quantum company as an employee |
2.2% |
Base: Individuals in academia in the quantum sector, n=45
Over half of respondents in both industry and academic streams report they have filed a patent related to quantum technology (55%; 46% report they have not). Additionally, more than three in four respondents report they have engaged potential end users of their product and service within the past year, with industry respondents more likely to report having done this (88%) than academic respondents (64%).
When asked about the level of interest potential end users have in adopting quantum technologies, nearly all respondents say they are interested (63%) or somewhat interested (34%). Despite this interest, respondents are a bit less likely to say end users are comfortable (20%) or somewhat comfortable (49%) with adopting quantum products or services.
In terms of barriers to end
users adopting quantum solutions, industry respondents most often mentioned
that use cases are still being proven and not adopted widely yet (21%), it
being too early, and the work or technology is not ready yet (20%) and a lack
of knowledge and understanding of the technology (20%). When asked about
barriers preventing the commercialization of their research, academic
respondents also often mention that it is too early and the work or technology
is not ready yet (27%), followed by not being interested in commercializing it
(18%).
Q63 – Have you/your organization ever filed a patent related to quantum
technologies?
Previously
filed a patent related to quantum technology
Filed patent |
Total
(n=112) |
Academia
(n=46) |
Industry/non-profit (n=66) |
Yes |
54.5% |
56.5% |
53.0% |
No |
45.5% |
43.5% |
47.0% |
Base: Individuals in industry/non-profit or academia in the quantum
sector, n=112
Q64 – Have you/your organization engaged
with potential end users of your product or service within the past year?
Previously engaged
potential end users
Engaged with end users |
Total
(n=110) |
Academia
(n=45) |
Industry/non-profit (n=65) |
Yes |
78.2% |
64.4% |
87.7% |
No |
21.8% |
35.6% |
12.3% |
Base: Individuals in industry/non-profit or academia in the quantum
sector, n=110
Q65 – How interested or not interested
are potential end users in adopting quantum technologies?
Interest in
potential end users to adopt quantum technologies
Level of interest |
Total
(n=86) |
Academia (n=29)* |
Industry/non-profit (n=57) |
Interested |
62.8% |
- |
70.2% |
Somewhat interested |
33.7% |
- |
29.8% |
Somewhat not interested |
1.2% |
- |
- |
Not interested |
- |
- |
- |
Unsure- |
2.3% |
- |
-- |
*NOTE: This data has
been suppressed due to a sample size of less than 30.
Base: Individuals in industry/non-profit or academia in the quantum
sector, n=86 respondents who have engaged with potential end users in the past
year.
Q66 – How
comfortable or not comfortable are potential end users with adopting quantum
products or services?
Comfort of
potential end users with adopting quantum technologies
Level of comfort |
Total
(n=85) |
Academia
(n=29)* |
Industry/non-profit (n=56) |
Comfortable |
20.0% |
- |
28.6% |
Somewhat comfortable |
49.4% |
- |
48.2% |
Somewhat not comfortable |
14.1% |
- |
12.5% |
Not comfortable |
5.9% |
- |
7.1% |
I don’t know |
10.6% |
|
3.6% |
*NOTE: This data has
been suppressed due to a sample size of less than 30.
Base: Individuals in industry/non-profit or academia in the quantum
sector, n=85 respondents who have engaged with potential end users in the past
year.
Q67 – [ASK INDUSTRY ONLY] What is the main barrier, if any, preventing
end users from adopting quantum solutions?
[OPEN]
Barriers to end
users adopting quantum solutions
Barrier |
Industry/non-profit |
Use cases still
being proven/not adopted widely yet |
21.4% |
It is too
early/work/technology isn't ready yet |
19.6% |
Lack of
knowledge of the technology/lack of understanding |
19.6% |
Costs/price of
technology |
8.9% |
Risk aversion |
7.1% |
No
urgency/incentive for it |
5.4% |
None/no
barriers |
3.6% |
Lack of funding |
3.6% |
Cannot
currently compete with classical solutions |
3.6% |
Other |
7.1% |
Base: Individuals in industry/non-profit in the quantum sector, n=56
respondents
Q68 – [ASK ACADEMICS ONLY] What is the main barrier, if any, preventing
the commercialization of your research? [OPEN]
Barriers preventing
commercialization of research
Barrier |
Academics |
It is too
early/work/technology isn't ready yet |
27.3% |
Not interested
in commercializing it |
18.2% |
Not
applicable/doing fundamental research |
9.1% |
Lack of capital |
6.1% |
Lack of
understanding/confusion on what quantum technology is/how to use it |
6.1% |
Industry is not
ready/lack of demand |
6.1% |
Lack of
standardization |
3.0% |
Need policy
pressure to push adoption |
3.0% |
Need support
for IP processes |
3.0% |
The competition |
3.0% |
Need additional
equipment/technology |
3.0% |
Difficult to
translate academic advances into deployable technology |
3.0% |
Issues within
my organization |
3.0% |
Other |
3.0% |
Unsure |
3.0% |
Base: Individuals in academia in the quantum sector, n=33 respondents
Q69 – Do you/does your organization have
a market-ready quantum product or service?
Market-ready
quantum product or service
Has product or service |
Total
(n=112) |
Academia
(n=46) |
Industry/non-profit (n=66) |
Yes |
48.2% |
23.9% |
65.2% |
No |
40.2% |
52.2% |
31.8% |
I don’t know |
11.6% |
23.9% |
3.0% |
Base: Individuals in industry/non-profit or academia in the quantum
sector, n=112 respondents.
Overall
respondents rate themselves as knowledgeable (71%, score of 7-10) of how
federal programming can support quantum research and development (mean of 7.4
out of 10).
Prompting on awareness of
federal programs supporting commercialization, industry and academic respondents
were most likely to report having heard of the NRC Industrial Research
Assistance Program (IRAP) (87%), followed by the NRC Challenge Program (84%) and
the Innovation for Defence Excellence and Security (IDEaS)(81%). They were most
likely to report having applied for and received funding from IRAP (37%),
Innovative Solutions Canada (ISC) (36%), and Regional Development Agency (30%).
Industry and academic respondents noted that the application or approval
process for these federal programs supporting commercialization is too long or
complex (20%), and there are too many requirements, and they should be relaxed
(10%).
Regarding federal programs supporting
research, industry and academic respondents were most likely to have heard of
the NSERC Alliance Quantum stream (87%), followed by the Canadian Institute for
Advanced Research (67%) and the Bank of Canada PIVOT programs (12%). One in
three industry and academic respondents who have heard of the NSERC Alliance
Quantum program report they applied for and received funding (32%; 21% report
they have applied, and the decision is pending), while two in ten say the same
for the Canadian Institute for Advanced Research (20%). When asked for comments
on their engagements with these federal programs, industry and academic respondents
mentioned the Alliance program does not fund companies or the private sector
(24%) and nine percent said CIFAR does not have open calls for funding, and it
is invitation only.
For federal programs that
support talent, nearly all industry and academic respondents report having
heard of the Mitacs program (98%), while more than three in four had heard of
NSERC Create (77%). More than half of industry and academic respondents who
have heard of Mitacs report they have applied for and received funding (59%),
while three in ten have received funding from NSERC Create (31%; 11% report
they applied but did not receive funding). One in four industry and academic respondents
commented that the federal programs supporting talents are good programs and that
they have applied successfully (25%), that the programs are difficult to apply
for or have too many requirements (25%) and that the programs do not apply to industry,
and they must go through academia to apply (25%).
Q70 – On a scale from 0 to 10, where 0 is not knowledgeable at all and
10 is very knowledgeable, to what extent are you knowledgeable of how federal
programming can support quantum research and development?
Level of
knowledge of federal programming
Level of knowledge (score
out of 10) |
Total (n=112) |
Academia
(n=46) |
Industry/non-profit (n=66) |
Mean |
7.4 |
7.6 |
7.2 |
Not knowledgeable (0-3) |
7.1% |
8.7% |
6.1% |
Average (4-6) |
21.4% |
13.0% |
27.3% |
Knowledgeable (7-10) |
71.4% |
78.3% |
66.7% |
Base: Individuals in industry/non-profit or academia in the quantum
sector, n=112 respondents.
Q71-79 Have you heard or not heard of the following federal programs
that support commercialization? [RANDOMIZE]
Awareness of
federal programs supporting commercialization
Programs (n=112) |
Heard |
Not
heard |
NRC Industrial
Research Assistance Program (IRAP) |
87.4% |
12.6% |
NRC Challenge
Programs |
83.9% |
16.1% |
Innovation for
Defence Excellence and Security (IDEaS) |
81.1% |
18.9% |
Regional
Development Agency (Canada Economic Develop for Quebec Regions, Federal Economics
Development Agency for Southern Ontario, Prairies Economic Development
Canada, Pacific Economic Development Canada) |
75.9% |
24.1% |
Strategic
Innovation Fund (SIF) |
75.0% |
25.0% |
Business
Development Bank of Canada Deep Tech Fund |
64.9% |
35.1% |
Innovative
Solutions Canada (ISC) |
64.9% |
35.1% |
Global
Innovation Clusters |
40.9% |
59.1% |
Base: Individuals in industry/non-profit or academia in the quantum
sector, n=112 respondents.
Q80-88 – Have you/your company ever applied for or received assistance
(including grants, contributions or contracts) from any of the following
programs that support commercialization? [SHOW ONES HEARD OF IN Q71-79]
Use of federal
programming supporting commercialization
Programs |
Yes,
applied for but did not receive assistance/ funding |
Yes,
applied for and received assistance/ funding |
Yes,
applied for, but decision is pending |
No
did not apply for or receive assistance/ funding |
Unsure |
NRC Industrial
Research Assistance Program (IRAP) (n=95) |
8.4% |
36.8% |
5.3% |
40.0% |
9.5% |
NRC Challenge
Programs (n=92) |
13.0% |
26.1% |
7.6% |
42.4% |
10.9% |
Innovation for
Defence Excellence and Security (IDEaS) (n=89) |
19.1% |
28.1% |
2.2% |
40.4% |
10.1% |
Regional
Development Agency (n=83) |
4.8% |
30.1% |
9.6% |
45.8% |
9.6% |
Strategic Innovation
Fund (SIF) (n=83) |
9.6% |
18.1% |
3.6% |
60.2% |
8.4% |
Business
Development Bank of Canada Deep Tech Fund (n=71) |
15.5% |
5.6% |
- |
70.4% |
8.5% |
Innovative
Solutions Canada (ISC) (n=72) |
13.9% |
36.1% |
5.6% |
36.1% |
8.3% |
Global
Innovation Clusters (n=44) |
2.3% |
20.5% |
4.5% |
61.4% |
11.4% |
Base: Individuals in industry/non-profit or academia in the quantum
sector, n=95 respondents who have heard of at least one of the programs
Q89 – Do you have any specific comments on your engagements with any of
these federal programs that support commercialization? [OPEN]
Comments on
engagements with federal programs supporting commercialization
Comment |
Total |
Application/approval
process too long/complex |
20.3% |
Too many
requirements/relax requirements |
10.2% |
Not enough
funding/scale too small |
8.5% |
Evaluation is
too subjective/evaluators lack understanding of quantum |
8.5% |
Canada has
fallen behind/programs are not enough |
6.8% |
Programs are
good/useful/great experience |
5.1% |
Nothing/no |
5.1% |
Strengthen
early adoption programs |
5.1% |
Difficult to
get funders to engage/commit to funding |
5.1% |
Less focus on
commercialization |
3.4% |
BDC is risk
adverse/does not support non-hardware companies |
3.4% |
Technology
isn't ready/not at that stage yet |
3.4% |
We need more
basic research/training/education |
3.4% |
Other |
11.9% |
Base: Individuals in industry/non-profit or academia in the quantum
sector, n=59 respondents.
Q90-93 – Have you heard or not heard of the following federal programs
that support research?
Awareness of
federal programs supporting research
Programs (n=112) |
Heard |
Not
heard |
NSERC
Alliance Quantum |
86.6% |
13.4% |
Canadian
Institute for Advanced Research |
67.0% |
33.0% |
Bank
of Canada PIVOT program |
11.7% |
88.3% |
Base: Individuals in industry/non-profit or academia in the quantum
sector, n=112 respondents.
Q94-97 – Have you/your company ever applied for or received assistance
(including grants, contributions or contracts) from any of the following
federal programs that support research? [SHOW ONES HEARD OF IN Q90-93]
Use of federal
programming supporting research
Programs |
Yes,
applied for but did not receive assistance/ funding |
Yes,
applied for and received assistance/ funding |
Yes,
applied for, but decision is pending |
No
did not apply for or receive assistance/ funding |
Unsure |
Bank
of Canada PIVOT program (n=13)* |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
Canadian
Institute for Advanced Research (n=74) |
2.4% |
20.3% |
- |
66.2% |
10.8% |
NSERC
Alliance Quantum (n=96) |
6.3% |
32.3% |
20.8% |
34.4% |
6.3% |
*NOTE: This data has
been suppressed due to a sample size of less than 30.
Base: Individuals in industry/non-profit or academia in the quantum
sector, n=96 respondents who have heard of at least one of the programs.
Q98 – Do you have any specific comments on your engagements with any of
these federal programs that support research? [OPEN]
Comments on
engagements with federal programs supporting research
Comment |
Total |
Alliance does
not fund companies or private sector/only research/we are not eligible |
24.2% |
Nothing
else/nothing to add |
12.1% |
CIFAR does not
have open calls for funding/invitation only |
9.1% |
NSERC Alliance
funds basic research/cannot discuss science |
6.1% |
I have had a
positive experience with Alliance |
6.1% |
Good programs
overall/recommend them |
6.1% |
Applications
take time/haven’t had time to apply |
3.0% |
Programs
support development of a quantum device/not a service |
3.0% |
Alliance
requirements for collaborators are not realistic |
3.0% |
Was not aware
of CIFAR funding |
3.0% |
Need flexible
funding calls |
3.0% |
These exclude
non-profits from receiving funding |
3.0% |
Industry needs
more funding programs |
3.0% |
We have
supported/are supporting funding applications |
3.0% |
NSERC wants
industry funding contributions with no control of use |
3.0% |
Other |
9.1% |
Base: Individuals in industry/non-profit or academia in the quantum
sector, n=33 respondents.
Q99-101 – Have you heard or not heard of the following federal programs
that support talent? [RANDOMIZE]
Awareness of
federal programs supporting talent
Programs (n=112) |
Heard |
Not
heard |
Mitacs |
98.2% |
1.8% |
NSERC
Create |
76.8% |
23.2% |
Base: Individuals in industry/non-profit or academia in the quantum
sector, n=112 respondents.
Q102-104 – Have you/your company ever applied for or received assistance
(including grants, contributions or contracts) from any of the following
federal programs that support talent? [SHOW ONES HEARD OF IN Q99-101]
Use of federal
programming supporting talent
Programs |
Yes,
applied for but did not receive assistance/ Funding |
Yes,
applied for and received assistance/ funding |
Yes,
applied for, but decision is pending |
No
did not apply for or receive assistance/ funding |
Unsure |
Mitacs
(n=108) |
2.8% |
59.3% |
2.8% |
31.5% |
3.7% |
NSERC
Create (n=85) |
10.6% |
30.6% |
2.4% |
48.2% |
8.2% |
Base: Individuals in industry/non-profit or academia in the quantum
sector, n=108 respondents who have heard of at least one of the programs.
Q105 – Do you have any specific comments on your engagements with any of
these federal programs that support talent? [OPEN-ENDED]
Comments on
engagements with federal programs supporting talent
Comment |
Total |
Good
programs/we have applied successfully |
25.0% |
Programs are
difficult to apply / too many requirements |
25.0% |
Programs do not
apply to industry/have to go through academia to apply/difficult for
commercialization |
25.0% |
Funding is not
enough to be worth it/need more programs funded |
15.6% |
Not hiring at
the moment/might apply in the future |
6.3% |
Other |
3.1% |
Base: Individuals in industry/non-profit or academia in the quantum
sector, n=32 respondents.
Nearly all industry and
academic respondents reported being aware of that Canada released its National Quantum
Strategy (NQS) in January 2023 (98%), with similar levels of satisfaction among
those aware with the different aspects of the NQS: making Canada a world leader
in the continued development, deployment and use of quantum computing hardware
and software (54% satisfied, score of 7-10), ensuring the privacy and cyber
security of Canadians in a quantum enabled world through a national secure
quantum communications network and a post-quantum cryptography initiative (51%
satisfied), and enabling the government and key industries to be developers and
early adopters of new quantum technologies (47% satisfied)
Close to two in three industry
and academic respondents who have heard of the NQS agree (22%) or somewhat
agree (47%) that the NQS’ missions create clear priorities for quantum in
Canada, while one in four somewhat disagree (16%) or disagree (10%). When asked
why they have that opinion, industry and academic respondents mentioned the objectives
being very broad (26%), that there is not enough funding or issues with funding
(13%), and the implementation being slow or having issues with implementation
(12%).
A
majority of industry and academic respondents aware of the NQS (86%) report
they have received information from the Federal Government concerning events
related to the NQS, including workshops, roundtables and missions.
Q106 – Prior to today, were you aware or not aware that Canada released
a national quantum strategy (NQS) in January 2023?
Awareness of
NQS
Awareness |
Total (n=112) |
Academia
(n=46) |
Industry/non-profit (n=66) |
Aware |
98.2% |
100.0% |
97.0% |
Not aware |
1.8% |
- |
3.0% |
Base: Individuals in industry/non-profit or academia in the quantum
sector, n=112 respondents.
Q107-109 – [IF AWARE OF NQS] On a scale from 0 to 10, where 0 is not at
all satisfied and 10 is very satisfied, how satisfied are you with the
following aspects of the NQS’s missions? [RANDOMIZE]
Satisfaction
with NQS
Aspects
of NQS (n=109) |
Mean |
Not satisfied (0-3) |
Neutral (4-6) |
Satisfied (7-10) |
Unsure |
Enable
the Government of Canada and key industries to be developers and early
adopters of new quantum sensing technologies. |
6.7 |
12.8% |
22.9% |
46.8% |
17.4% |
Make
Canada a world leader in the continued development, deployment and use of
quantum computing hardware and software—to the benefit of Canadian industry,
governments and citizens. |
6.7 |
17.4% |
16.5% |
54.1% |
11.9% |
Ensure
the privacy and cyber-security of Canadians in a quantum-enabled world
through a national secure quantum communications network and a post-quantum
cryptography initiative. |
6.7 |
13.8% |
18.3% |
51.4% |
16.5% |
Base: Individuals in industry/non-profit or academia in the quantum
sector, n=109 respondents who have heard of the NQS
Q110 – Do you agree, somewhat agree, somewhat disagree or disagree that
the NQS missions create clear priorities for quantum in Canada?
Agreement that
NQS missions create clear priorities
Awareness |
Total (n=109) |
Academia (n=45) |
Industry/non-profit (n=64) |
Agree |
22.0% |
31.1% |
15.6% |
Somewhat agree |
46.8% |
42.2% |
50.0% |
Somewhat disagree |
15.6% |
15.6% |
15.6% |
Disagree |
10.1% |
6.7% |
12.5% |
Unsure |
5.5% |
4.4% |
6.3% |
Base: Individuals in industry/non-profit or academia in the quantum
sector, n=109 respondents who have heard of the NQS
Q111 – Why do you have that opinion? [OPEN-ENDED]
Reason for
level of agreement that NQS missions create clear priorities
Awareness |
Total (n=76) |
Academia (n=30) |
Industry/non-profit (n=46) |
Very broad
objectives |
26.3% |
30.0% |
23.9% |
Not enough
funding/issues with funding |
13.2% |
13.3% |
13.0% |
Implementation
is slow/issues with implementation |
11.8% |
10.0% |
13.0% |
Priorities not
clearly defined |
9.2% |
10.0% |
8.7% |
Mission/priorities
are clear |
7.9% |
13.3% |
4.3% |
Missing the
societal (social sciences) aspect such as adoption and integration |
6.6% |
3.3% |
8.7% |
Missing
important opportunities (sensing, encryption, quantum materials |
5.3% |
- |
8.7% |
Not engaged
with quantum community |
3.9% |
3.3% |
4.3% |
Priorities
don't align with priorities of government |
2.6% |
- |
4.3% |
Not
sufficiently long-term |
1.3% |
3.3% |
- |
Too soon to
tell |
1.3% |
3.3% |
- |
Other |
9.2% |
10.0% |
8.7% |
Unsure |
1.3% |
- |
2.2% |
Base: Individuals in industry/non-profit or academia in the quantum
sector, n=76 respondents who have heard of the NQS
Q112 – Have you ever received information from the federal government
(e.g., NQS Secretariat) concerning events related to the national quantum
strategy, such as workshops, roundtables, missions, etc.?
Received
information from the federal government about NQS events
Received information |
Total (n=110) |
Academia (n=46) |
Industry/non-profit (n=64) |
Yes |
86.4% |
91.3% |
82.8% |
No |
10.9% |
6.5% |
14.1% |
Unsure |
2.7% |
2.2% |
3.1% |
Base: Individuals in industry/non-profit or academia in the quantum
sector, n=110 respondents.
The survey is comprised of 66 individuals in businesses/non-profits in
the quantum sector (46 unique businesses) and 46 academics (23 unique
universities/institutes) in the quantum sector. The survey was conducted online
and was deployed to a list provided by ISED and a total of 112 individuals
participated.
The fieldwork was conducted between February
21st and March 1st, 2024. Details on the rate of
participation can be found in Appendix A and the questionnaire is provided in
Appendix B.
Respondent Profile
The
following table outlines the composition for the survey.
Demographic |
All (n=112) |
Academics (n=46) |
Industry/Non-profit (n=66) |
Gender |
|
|
|
Male |
66% |
65% |
67% |
Female |
21% |
20% |
21% |
Prefer not to answer |
12% |
13% |
11% |
Other |
2% |
2% |
2% |
Location of head office/ research |
|
|
|
Atlantic |
1% |
2% |
- |
Quebec |
30% |
38% |
20% |
Ontario |
42% |
33% |
54% |
West |
27% |
27% |
26% |
Special populations |
|
|
|
Person with disabilities |
4% |
2% |
5% |
Racialized persons |
12% |
18% |
8% |
2SLGBTQIA+ community |
6% |
7% |
5% |
None of the above |
75% |
68% |
80% |
Unsure |
7% |
7% |
6% |
Fieldwork Dates
Fieldwork was
conducted between February 21st to March 1st, 2024.
Margin of error
No margin
of error is applicable to this survey.
Questionnaire design
Innovation, Science and
Economic Development Canada (ISED) provided Nanos with a draft questionnaire.
Nanos Research then reviewed the draft questionnaire and advised on best
practices in question design. Upon approval of the English questionnaire, Nanos
Research translated the questionnaire into French which was then reviewed by ISED.
Nanos programmed the
questionnaire into our system, then thoroughly tested the programming in
English and French to ensure accuracy ahead of the pre-test and rollout. This
procedure ensured that the survey logic accurately reflected the questionnaire
and data was collected properly. The final survey questionnaire is included in
Appendix B.
Survey Duration
The average survey
length was 27 minutes, 49 seconds and ranged from 4.75 minutes to 4 hours as
respondents self-administered the survey online at their own pace.
Quality Controls
Prior to launching the
survey, a pre-test was conducted with 16 individuals (13 English, 3 French).
ISED provided a list of 23 individuals for the pre-test, who were sent a
message from ISED followed by a message from Nanos with a link to complete the
survey. In addition, reminder messages were sent by both ISED and Nanos in an
effort to increase the response rate. Due to the very short timelines, the
decision was made to end the pre-test prior to the completion of 20 surveys.
The pre-test contained three French completions, which is due to the
composition of the pre-test list, which consisted of 16 English contacts and
seven French contacts. Despite this, having the three French completions still
enabled the project team to receive valuable input on the survey in French from
these individuals and ensure comparability between languages. The number of
francophone individuals in the pre-test list is also aligned with the
proportion of francophones in the complete list (about 25% to 30%). The list
for the survey contained every quantum company in Canada known by the NQS
Secretariat, and they all received the link to complete the survey.
The purpose of the
pre-test was to ensure that the content of the questionnaire was
understandable, that the duration of the survey fit the target, to ensure
comparability between the French and the English and to ensure that the logic
of the survey flowed smoothly. The pre-test was completed between January 30th
and February 5th, 2024. Upon conclusion of the pre-test, additional
questions were added, and some were removed or changed slightly. As these were
changes that impacted the comparability of the pre-test questionnaire with the
updated questionnaire, the responses from the pre-test were not used.
Individuals who participated in the pre-test were invited to participate in the
full survey rollout so as to include their responses in the report.
Nanos Research monitors ten percent of
all fieldwork for quality control and assurance in accordance with the
standards of CRIC, ESOMAR and AAPOR.
-
projects are
staffed with employees best suited for the nature and subject matter of the
project
-
the Survey Field
Manager
·
analyzes the
general project summary, questionnaires, sample requirements, quota
requirements and any special instructions
·
contacts the
Client to clarify any grey areas
·
meticulously
programs the questionnaire, incorporating all questionnaire logic and project
requirements
·
extensively tests
the programming to ensure that all possible scenarios are properly programmed
·
forwards the structure
of the data file to the Client for approval prior to commencement of the
fieldwork
·
if necessary,
performs a duplication control check on the sample lists according to the
Client’s specifications
·
reviews or
prepares the survey invitation; gets final approval from client
·
well documents
all modifications made during the initial project stage and pre-test to support
later inquiries on project specifications (questionnaire, sample and quotas)
·
if required,
arranges for translation of the
questionnaire in the language(s) needed. For verification of translation
accuracy, send the translated version(s) to the Client for their review and
approval. Also, if requested, arrange a back-translation by separate
translators to ensure accurate translation.
Pre-field procedures – Online
Prior to any online survey going live
it undergoes multi-stage testing. The process for the survey was as follows:
1.
Stage 1 (Programming) - Draft
programming was tested by the assigned programmer for functionality, accuracy
and logic flow.
2.
Stage 2
(Internal testing) – Links to the draft programming were provided to Nanos’
internal project lead team to validate that all questions and supporting
information (e.g. links, background information, etc.) correctly display, that
logic branches successfully trigger, and that data is captured in the survey
database.
3.
Stage 3
(Client validation) – Once Stage 1 and 2 testing has been successfully
completed, testing links were provided to the client for their testing and
approval in both English and French. Feedback received from the client was
incorporated into the programming where required and the testing cycle
recommences from Stage 1.
Fieldwork
Procedures – Online
-
Before invitation
emails were sent, unique PIN numbers were tagged onto the survey links in order
to identify and track survey attempts from individual respondents. With a
unique PIN, each respondent can only complete the survey once.
-
Project Managers
oversee the validation and correction of erroneous email addresses. Log records
are maintained for each email sent.
-
After the first
day of data collection is completed, the CAWI questionnaire is checked to
ensure question wording, response codes and questionnaire logic are correctly
programmed. Actual survey data is used to verify the programming.
-
If there are
errors or omissions due to questionnaire logic or CAWI programming, data
collection is temporarily suspended while the programming is immediately
corrected and re-tested.
-
Data is also tested
for respondent consistency, scanned for patterns (either general or within a
specific case). If any record shows an illogical response or a peculiar
pattern, it will be investigated, and if it is determined to be unsound, it
will be removed from the completed interviews.
-
Project Managers
regularly check the project connection logs within the online survey system to
review the connect time of all respondents who have completed a survey for each
project. The connect time (duration) is monitored to find any record that may
be questionable (e.g. a survey with a much lower than average duration). If
such a record is found, the data for that case will be reviewed and tested, and
if it is determined not to be a valid complete, it will be removed from the
completed count and cumulative data.
Post-field Procedures – Online
The Survey Field Manager prepares a final
participation report and web connection summary that includes relevant survey
statistics such as total completed interviews, total contacts made / total
invitations sent, terminations due to various reasons, average duration of the
questionnaire, incidence rate, response rate, etc.
Non-response bias
-
To reduce
non-response errors for a web survey, a few techniques were employed.
· Reminder emails are sent, again containing the survey link.
· Project Managers regularly checked on the completion status of web
questionnaires. If a partially completed web questionnaire remained uncompleted
for over 3 (or 5) days, a reminder email was sent.
Response Rate
The response rate for
this survey was 26%.
2024-2519 - ISED Quantum - Response Rate |
||
A |
Number of Contacts Provided by Client |
433 |
B |
Invalid Contacts |
0 |
C |
Potential Contacts (C=A-B) |
433 |
D |
Number of Completes |
112 |
E |
Refusals |
0 |
F |
Response Rate (Completed Surveys) (F=C/D) |
26% |
INTRODUCTION
Si vous
préférez répondre au sondage en français, veuillez choisir « Français » dans le
menu déroulant situé en haut de cette page.
Welcome and thank you for taking part
in the survey of the Canadian quantum ecosystem. This survey is conducted by
Nanos Research on behalf of Innovation, Science, and Economic Development
Canada (ISED). In January 2023, the Government of Canada released the National
Quantum Strategy (NQS) to build on past successes and guide future efforts.
Your feedback is key to gathering an accurate picture of the Canadian quantum
sector.
The survey takes about 15 minutes
to complete, and your participation is voluntary and confidential. All your
responses will remain anonymous and will be grouped with others to identify
common themes and priorities, and to ensure no particular individual can be
identified in any reporting for this research. Any information you provide will be administered in accordance with the
Privacy Act, the Access
to Information Act, and any other
relevant legislation. For more information on how the data is collected, used
and protected, please consult the Nanos Research Privacy Policy.
Please take the time to complete the
survey by March 1st, 2024.
This research project is registered
with the Canadian Research Insights Council (CRIC) Research Verification
Service that allows you to verify its legitimacy and share your feedback. If
you have feedback on this research, you can share it by going to
https://canadianresearchinsightscouncil.ca/rvs and using the RVS code:
20240123-NA708.
Should you need an alternative means to
access this survey please contact ISED’s public
opinion research team .
Initial Branch Question
1.
In which sector do you primarily work
in? [SELECT ONE]
Academia................................................................................... 1 [SKIP TO ACADEMIC QS – Q31]
Industry/Not for Profit................................................................................... 2 [SKIP TO INDUSTRY QS – Q3]
Both Academia and Industry................................................................................... 3 [GO TO Q2]
2.
[IF SELECTED BOTH] Which sector do you
spend more working time on within Canada’s quantum community? Please
select only one role as the questions that follow will be specific to your
response.
Academia....................................... 1 [STREAM 2 – ACADEMIC – Skip to Q31]
Industry/Not for Profit................... 2 [STREAM 1 – INDUSTRY – Go to Q3]
INDUSTRY
STREAM
General Questions
Our first few questions will help
group your responses.
3.
In which province or territory is your
organization headquartered? [SELECT ONE]
Alberta............................................................. 1
British Columbia............................................... 2
Manitoba......................................................... 3
New Brunswick................................................ 4
Newfoundland and Labrador............................ 5
Northwest Territories....................................... 6
Nova Scotia...................................................... 7
Nunavut........................................................... 8
Ontario............................................................ 9
Prince Edward Island........................................ 10
Quebec............................................................ 11
Saskatchewan.................................................. 12
Yukon.............................................................. 13
Outside Canada (please specify) TEXT BOX....... 20
4.
Does your organization have offices in
other provinces and territories that work on quantum technologies? (please
specify) Select all options that apply.
Alberta................................................................................... 1
British Columbia................................................................................... 2
Manitoba................................................................................... 3
New Brunswick................................................................................... 4
Newfoundland and Labrador................................................................................... 5
Northwest Territories................................................................................... 6
Nova Scotia................................................................................... 7
Nunavut................................................................................... 8
Ontario................................................................................... 9
Prince Edward Island................................................................................. 10
Quebec................................................................................. 11
Saskatchewan................................................................................. 12
Yukon................................................................................. 13
Outside Canada (please specify) TEXT BOX................................................................................. 20
No other locations................................................................................. 14
5.
Does your organization have remote
employees in any of the following provinces and territories that work on
quantum technologies? (please specify) Select all options that apply.
Alberta................................................................................... 1
British Columbia................................................................................... 2
Manitoba................................................................................... 3
New Brunswick................................................................................... 4
Newfoundland and Labrador................................................................................... 5
Northwest Territories................................................................................... 6
Nova Scotia................................................................................... 7
Nunavut................................................................................... 8
Ontario................................................................................... 9
Prince Edward Island................................................................................. 10
Quebec................................................................................. 11
Saskatchewan................................................................................. 12
Yukon................................................................................. 13
Outside Canada (please specify) TEXT BOX................................................................................. 20
No remote employees................................................................................. 14
6.
Including yourself, approximately how
many full-time staff does your organization employ in Canada that work on
quantum technologies?
1 to 9............................................. 1
10 to 19......................................... 2
20 to 29......................................... 3
30 to 39......................................... 4
40 to 49......................................... 5
50 to 99......................................... 6
100 or more................................... 7
Not sure......................................... 77
7. How many years has your organization been in business?
Less than 5 years............................ 1
5 to 9 years.................................... 2
10 to 14 years................................ 3
15 to 19 years................................ 4
20 years or more............................ 5
Not sure......................................... 77
Research
8.
In which areas does your organization
conduct research and development in quantum technologies? [SELECT ALL THAT
APPLY]
Quantum software................................................................................... 2
Quantum communications and cryptography................................................................................... 3
Quantum sensors................................................................................... 4
Quantum materials................................................................................... 5
Other (Please specify): OPEN................................................................................. 20
9.
Does your organization collaborate
with the following entities? [RANDOMIZE] [SELECT ALL THAT APPLY]
Companies located in Canada............................................................................ 1
Companies located outside of Canada............................................................................ 2
Universities/colleges in Canada ............................................................................ 3
Universities/colleges in other countries............................................................................ 4
Canadian research institutes such as the Institute for Quantum Computing............................................................................ 5
Government laboratories or international research institutes in other countries,
such as the U.S. Department of Energy ............................................................................ 6
Canadian Federal government laboratories such as the National Research Council............................................................................. 7
None of the above.......................................................................... 99
On a scale from 0
to 10, where 0 is not at all important and 10 is very important, how important
is it for your organization to collaborate with the
following entities to advance your research interests? [RANDOMIZE]
10.
Companies located in Canada
11.
Companies located outside of Canada
12.
Universities/colleges in Canada
13.
Universities/colleges in other
countries
14.
Canadian research institutes such as
the Institute for Quantum Computing
15.
Government laboratories or
International research institutes in other countries, such as the U.S.
Department of Energy
16.
Canadian Federal government laboratories
such as the National Research Council.
0 (Not at all important).................. 0
1.................................................... 1
2.................................................... 2
3.................................................... 3
4.................................................... 4
5.................................................... 5
6.................................................... 6
7.................................................... 7
8.................................................... 8
9.................................................... 9
10 (Very important)....................... 10
Unsure........................................... 77
17.
[IF COLLABORATES WITH ANY ORGS IN Q9]
What is the main benefit for your organization, if any, of these
collaborations? [OPEN]
18.
[IF COLLABORATES WITH ANY ORG IN Q9] What
has been the main output of these collaborations? [SELECT ALL THAT
APPLY][RANDOMIZE]
Expanded network......................... 1
Ongoing collaboration.................... 2
Publication..................................... 3
Conference Presentation................ 4
Prototype....................................... 5
Market-ready product or service.... 6
Patent............................................ 7
Other [TEXT BOX]........................... 20
19.
[IF DOES NOT COLLABORATE WITH ANY ORGS IN
Q9] What is the main barrier, if any, preventing your organization from
collaborating? [OPEN]
Talent
20.
How likely or unlikely is your
organization to remain in Canada in the next five years?
Likely.............................................. 1
Somewhat likely............................. 2
Somewhat unlikely ........................ 4
Unlikely.......................................... 5
Unsure........................................... 77
21.
In the past six months, has your
organization tried to fill positions for which a quantum science and technology
background is important?
Yes................................................. 1 [Go to Q22]
No.................................................. 2
[Go to Q27]
Unsure........................................... 77 [Go to Q27]
22.
Where was your organization’s search
mainly conducted? [SELECT ALL THAT APPLY]
Domestic (in Canada)..................... 1
The United States........................... 2
Europe........................................... 3
Asia................................................ 4
Other International (Specify).......... 20
Unsure........................................... 77
23.
Were there
any qualified Canadian candidates that met your organization’s needs?
Yes .................................................................. 1
No.................................................................... 2
Not applicable/did not search in Canada.......... 3
Unsure............................................................. 77
24.
What
recruiting tools were the most helpful for your organization to find qualified
candidates? [SELECT ALL THAT APPLY]
Recruiting agency................................................................................... 1
Job posting websites [monster.ca, Indeed, etc.]................................................................................... 2
Social media [LinkedIn]................................................................................... 3
Other [please specify]................................................................................. 20
Unsure................................................................................. 77
25.
What was the result of the hiring
process? [select one]
My organization filled all of the positions we were hiring................................................................................... 1
My organization filled some of the positions we were hiring................................................................................... 2
My organization did not fill any of the positions we were hiring................................................................................... 3
The process is still ongoing................................................................................... 4
Other (Specify)................................................................................. 20
Unsure................................................................................. 77
26.
What was the main barrier, if any, to
hiring someone to work at your organization? [RANDOMIZE][select one]
Candidate expectations (e.g. salary, benefits)................................................................................... 1
Lack of qualified candidates................................................................................... 2
Candidates unwilling to relocate................................................................................... 3
Immigration barriers................................................................................... 4
Other [please specify]................................................................................. 20
Unsure................................................................................. 77
27.
In the next six months, how likely
or unlikely is your organization to hire people for positions where a quantum
science and technology background is important?
Likely.............................................. 1
Somewhat likely............................. 2
Somewhat unlikely ........................ 3
Unlikely.......................................... 4
Unsure........................................... 77
28.
From the list below, please identify
areas of quantum technologies for which there is a shortage of skilled people
in Canada? [select all that apply][RANDOMIZE]
Quantum computing hardware................................................................................... 1
Quantum software................................................................................... 2
Quantum communications and cryptography................................................................................... 3
Quantum sensors................................................................................... 4
Quantum materials................................................................................... 5
Other [please specify]................................................................................. 20
None of the above................................................................................... 6
Unsure................................................................................. 77
29. Which of the following groups, if any, are represented in your organization’s workforce? [RANDOMIZE]
Women................................................................................... 1
Indigenous people................................................................................... 2
Persons with disabilities................................................................................... 3
Racialized persons [persons, other than Aboriginal peoples, who are
non-Caucasian in race or non-white in colour], ............................................................................ 4
2SLGBTQIA+ community)............................................................................ 5
None of the above............................................................................ 5
Unsure.......................................................................... 77
30.
What is the biggest challenge, if any,
for your organization when hiring a more diverse workforce? [OPEN]
[INDUSTRY
– NOW SKIP TO Q63]
ACADEMIA
STREAM
General
Our first few questions will help
group your responses.
31.
What is your role within academia?
Professor (include Associate, Assistant, Professor) ................................................................................... 1
Lecturer/Sessional................................................................................... 2
Postdoctoral................................................................................... 3
Graduate student................................................................................... 4
Researcher................................................................................... 5
Undergraduate student................................................................................... 6
Other (please specify)................................................................................. 20
32.
Where do you primarily conduct your
work/studies? [SELECT ONE]
Alberta................................................................................... 1
British Columbia................................................................................... 2
Manitoba................................................................................... 3
New Brunswick................................................................................... 4
Newfoundland and Labrador................................................................................... 5
Northwest Territories................................................................................... 6
Nova Scotia................................................................................... 7
Nunavut................................................................................... 8
Ontario................................................................................... 9
Prince Edward Island................................................................................. 10
Quebec................................................................................. 11
Saskatchewan................................................................................. 12
Yukon ................................................................................. 13
Outside Canada (please specify) TEXT BOX................................................................................. 20
33.
How many years have you been
working/studying in this field?
Less than 5 years............................ 1
5 to 9 years.................................... 2
10 to 14 years................................ 3
15 to 19 years................................ 4
20 years or more............................ 5
34. Which of the following groups, if any, are represented in your department’s workforce? [RANDOMIZE]
Women................................................................................... 1
Indigenous people................................................................................... 2
Persons with disabilities................................................................................... 3
Racialized persons [persons, other than Aboriginal peoples, who are
non-Caucasian in race or non-white in colour], ............................................................................ 4
2SLGBTQIA+ community)............................................................................ 5
None of the above............................................................................ 5
Unsure.......................................................................... 77
Research:
35.
In which areas do you conduct research
and development in quantum technologies?
Quantum computing hardware................................................................................... 1
Quantum software................................................................................... 2
Quantum communications and cryptography................................................................................... 3
Quantum sensors................................................................................... 4
Quantum materials................................................................................... 5
Other [SPECIFY]................................................................................. 20
36.
What department in the university/college
are you with?
Physics........................................... 1
Mathematics.................................. 2
Engineering.................................... 3
Computer Science.......................... 4
Other [please specify].................... 20
37.
In quantum research, do you collaborate
with the following entities? [RANDOMIZE][SELECT ALL THAT APPLY]
Companies located in Canada............................................................................ 1
Companies located outside of Canada............................................................................ 2
Universities/colleges in Canada ............................................................................ 3
Universities/colleges in other countries............................................................................ 4
Canadian research institutes such as the Institute for Quantum Computing............................................................................ 5
Canadian Federal government laboratories such as the National Research Council............................................................................. 7
Government laboratories and international research institutes in other countries,
such as the U.S. Department of Energy ............................................................................ 8
None of the above............................................................................ 9
On a scale from 0 to 10, where 0 is
not at all important and 10 is very important, how important is it for you to
collaborate with the following entities to advance your research interests?
[RANDOMIZE]
38.
Companies located in Canada
39.
Companies located outside of Canada
40.
Universities/colleges in Canada
41.
Universities/colleges in other countries
42.
Canadian research institutes such as the
Institute for Quantum Computing
43.
Government laboratories and international
research institutes in other countries, such as the U.S Department of Energy
44.
Canadian Federal government laboratories
such as the National Research Council.
0 (Not at all important).................. 0
1.................................................... 1
2.................................................... 2
3.................................................... 3
4.................................................... 4
5.................................................... 5
6.................................................... 6
7.................................................... 7
8.................................................... 8
9.................................................... 9
10 (Very important)....................... 10
Unsure........................................... 77
45.
[IF COLLABORATES WITH ANY ORG IN Q37]
What is the main benefit for you, if any, of these collaborations? [OPEN]
46.
[IF COLLABORATES WITH ANY ORG IN Q37]
What has been the main output of these collaborations? [SELECT ALL THAT
APPLY][RANDOMIZE]
Expanded network......................... 1
Ongoing research collaboration...... 2
Publication..................................... 3
Conference Presentation................ 4
Prototype....................................... 5
Market-ready product or service.... 6
Patent............................................ 7
Other [TEXT BOX]........................... 20
47.
[IF DOES NOT COLLABORATE WITH ANY ORG IN
Q37] What is the main barrier, if any, preventing you from collaborating?
[OPEN]
Talent
48.
How likely or unlikely are you to remain
in Canada in the next five years to pursue your research?
Likely.............................................. 1
Somewhat likely............................. 2
Somewhat unlikely ........................ 3
Unlikely.......................................... 4
Unsure........................................... 77
On a scale from 0 to 10, where 0 is not at all important and 10 is
very important, how important or not important are the following factors to you
when choosing where to conduct your research? [RANDOMIZE]
49.
Salary
50.
Quality of life
51.
Funding opportunities
52.
Professional connections
53.
Reputation of institution
54.
National Moonshot programs
55.
Strength of the local quantum community
56.
Other (Specify)
0 (Not at all important).................. 0
1.................................................... 1
2.................................................... 2
3.................................................... 3
4.................................................... 4
5.................................................... 5
6.................................................... 6
7.................................................... 7
8.................................................... 8
9.................................................... 9
10 (Very important)....................... 10
Unsure........................................... 77
57.
Has your department attempted to hire a
new faculty member in quantum in the past six months?
Yes ................................................ 1 [GO TO Q58]
No.................................................. 2 [SKIP TO Q60]
Unsure........................................... 77 [SKIP TO Q60]
58.
What was the result of the hiring
process? [select one]
My department filled all of the positions we were hiring................................................................................... 1
My department filled some of the positions we were hiring................................................................................... 2
My department did not fill any of the positions we were hiring................................................................................... 3
The process is still ongoing................................................................................... 4
Other (Specify)................................................................................. 20
Unsure................................................................................. 77
59.
What was the main barrier, if any, to
hiring a new faculty member to work in your department? [RANDOMIZE][select one]
Candidate expectations (e.g. salary, benefits)................................................................................... 1
Lack of qualified candidates................................................................................... 2
Candidates unwilling to relocate................................................................................... 3
Immigration barriers................................................................................... 4
Other [please specify]................................................................................. 20
Unsure................................................................................. 77
60.
In your opinion, what is the biggest
challenge for your department when cultivating a diverse workforce? [OPEN]
Academia Commercialization:
61.
Are you primarily engaged in fundamental
or applied research?
Fundamental research................................................................................... 1
Applied research................................................................................... 2
Both fundamental and applied research................................................................................... 3
62.
In addition to your primary work in
academia, do you also currently play any role for a quantum company?
Yes, I work at a quantum company as an Executive or Board Member................................................................................... 1
Yes, I work at a quantum company as an employee................................................................................... 2
Yes, I work at a quantum company as a consultant................................................................................... 3
No, I do not work at a quantum company................................................................................... 4
[ASK ALL] Commercialization of
technologies:
63.
Have you/your organization ever filed a
patent related to quantum technologies?
Yes................................................. 1
No.................................................. 2
64.
Have you/your organization engaged with
potential end users of your product or service within the past year?
Yes ................................................ 1[Go to Q65].............................................................
No.................................................. 2 [Skip to Q68]
65. How interested or not interested are potential end users in adopting quantum technologies?
Interested...................................... 1
Somewhat interested..................... 2
Somewhat not interested............... 3
Not interested................................ 4
I don’t know................................... 77
66.
How comfortable or not comfortable are
potential end users with adopting quantum products or services?
Comfortable................................... 1
Somewhat comfortable.................. 2
Somewhat not comfortable............ 3
Not comfortable............................. 4
I don’t know................................... 77
67.
[ASK INDUSTRY ONLY] What is the main
barrier, if any, preventing end users from adopting quantum solutions? [OPEN]
68.
[ASK ACADEMICS ONLY] What is the main
barrier, if any, preventing the commercialization of your research? [OPEN]
69.
Do you/does your organization have a
market-ready quantum product or service?
Yes ................................................ 1.............................................................
No ................................................. 2
I don’t know................................... 3
[ASK ALL] Awareness and Use of Federal
Programming
70.
On a scale from 0 to 10, where 0 is not
knowledgeable at all and 10 is very knowledgeable, to what extent are you
knowledgeable of how federal programming can support quantum research and
development?
0 (Not at all knowledgeable)........... 0
1.................................................... 1
2.................................................... 2
3.................................................... 3
4.................................................... 4
5.................................................... 5
6.................................................... 6
7.................................................... 7
8.................................................... 8
9.................................................... 9
10 (Very knowledgeable)................ 10
Unsure........................................... 77
Have you heard or not heard of the following federal programs that support commercialization? [RANDOMIZE]
71.
Business Development Bank of Canada Deep
Tech Fund
72.
Global Innovation Clusters
73.
Innovation for Defence Excellence and
Security (IDEaS)
74.
Innovative Solutions Canada (ISC)
75.
NRC Challenge Programs
76.
NRC Industrial Research Assistance
Program (IRAP)
77.
Regional Development Agency (Canada
Economic Develop for Quebec Regions, Federal Economics Development Agency for
Southern Ontario, Prairies Economic Development Canada, Pacific Economic
Development Canada)
78.
Strategic Innovation Fund (SIF)
79.
Other [TEXT BOX]
Heard of......................................... 1
Not heard of.................................. 2
Have
you/your company ever applied for or received assistance (including grants,
contributions or contracts) from any of the following programs that support
commercialization? [SHOW ONES HEARD OF IN Q71-79]
80. Business Development Bank of Canada Deep Tech Fund
81. Global Innovation Clusters
82. Innovation for Defence Excellence and Security (IDEaS]
83. Innovative Solutions Canada (ISC
84. NRC Challenge Programs
85. NRC Industrial Research Assistance Program (IRAP)
86. Regional Development Agency (Canada Economic Develop for Quebec Regions, Federal Economics Development Agency for Southern Ontario, Prairies Economic Development Canada, Pacific Economic Development Canada)
87. Strategic Innovation Fund (SIF)
88. Other [TEXT BOX]
Yes, applied for but did not receive assistance/funding................................................................................... 1
Yes, applied for and received assistance/funding................................................................................... 2
Yes applied for, but decision is pending................................................................................... 3
No, did not apply for or receive assistance/funding................................................................................... 4
Unsure................................................................................. 77
89.
Do you have any specific comments on
your engagements with any of these federal programs that support
commercialization? [OPEN]
Have
you heard or not heard of the following federal programs that support research?
90.
Bank of Canada PIVOT program
91.
Canadian Institute for Advanced Research
92.
NSERC Alliance Quantum
93.
Other [TEXT BOX]
Heard of......................................... 1
Not heard of.................................. 2
Have
you/your company ever applied for or received assistance (including grants,
contributions or contracts) from any of the following federal programs that
support research? [SHOW ONES HEARD OF IN Q90-93]
94.
Bank of Canada PIVOT program
95.
Canadian Institute for Advanced Research
96.
NSERC Alliance Quantum
97.
Other [TEXT BOX]
Yes, applied for but did not receive assistance/funding................................................................................... 1
Yes, applied for and received assistance/funding................................................................................... 2
Yes applied for, but decision is pending................................................................................... 3
No, did not apply for or receive assistance/funding................................................................................... 4
Unsure................................................................................. 77
98.
Do you have any specific
comments on your engagements with any of these federal programs that support research
[TEXT BOX]
Have
you heard or not heard of the following federal programs that support talent ?
[RANDOMIZE]
99.
Mitacs
100.
NSERC CREATE
101.
Other [TEXT BOX]
Heard of......................................... 1
Not heard of.................................. 2
Have you/your company ever applied for or received assistance (including grants, contributions or contracts) from any of the following federal programs that support talent? [SHOW ONES HEARD OF IN Q99-101]
102.
Mitacs
103.
NSERC CREATE
104.
Other [TEXT BOX]
Yes, applied for but did not receive assistance/funding................................................................................... 1
Yes, applied for and received assistance/funding................................................................................... 2
Yes applied for, but decision is pending................................................................................... 3
No, did not apply for or receive assistance/funding................................................................................... 4
Unsure................................................................................. 77
105.
Do you have any specific
comments on your engagements with any of these federal programs that support
talent? [TEXT BOX]
[ASK ALL] NQS public opinion
106.
Prior to today, were you aware or not
aware that Canada released a national quantum strategy (NQS) in January 2023?
Aware............................................ 1 [GO TO Q107]
Not aware...................................... 2 [SKIP TO Q112]
[IF
AWARE IN Q106] On a scale from 0 to 10, where 0 not at all satisfied and 10 is
very satisfied, how satisfied are you with the following aspects of the NQS’s
missions? [RANDOMIZE]
107.
Make Canada a world leader in the
continued development, deployment and use of quantum computing hardware and
software—to the benefit of Canadian industry, governments and citizens.
108.
Ensure the privacy and cyber-security of
Canadians in a quantum-enabled world through a national secure quantum
communications network and a post-quantum cryptography initiative.
109.
Enable the Government of Canada and key
industries to be developers and early adopters of new quantum sensing
technologies.
0 (Not at all satisfied)..................... 0
1.................................................... 1
2.................................................... 2
3.................................................... 3
4.................................................... 4
5.................................................... 5
6.................................................... 6
7.................................................... 7
8.................................................... 8
9.................................................... 9
10 (Very satisfied).......................... 10
Unsure........................................... 77
110.
Do you agree, somewhat agree, somewhat
disagree or disagree that the NQS missions create clear priorities for quantum
in Canada?
Agree............................................. 1
Somewhat agree............................ 2
Somewhat disagree........................ 3
Disagree......................................... 4
Unsure........................................... 77
111.
Why do you have that opinion [OPEN]
112.
Have you ever received information from
the federal government (e.g. NQS Secretariat) concerning events related to the
national quantum strategy, such as workshops, roundtables, missions, etc.?
Yes................................................. 1
No.................................................. 2
Unsure........................................... 77
Our last question will help us group
your responses.
113. What is your gender?
Female............................................................. 1
Male................................................................ 2
Other (please specify)...................................... 3
Prefer not to answer........................................ 4
114. Do you identify with any of the following groups? [RANDOMIZE] (Multiple selection)? [RANDOMIZE]
Indigenous people................................................................................... 1
Persons with disabilities................................................................................... 2
Racialized persons [persons, other than Aboriginal peoples, who are
non-Caucasian in race or non-white in colour], ............................................................................ 3
2SLGBTQIA+ community)............................................................................ 4
None of the above............................................................................ 5
Unsure.......................................................................... 77
Thank you very much for taking the time to complete the survey. This
survey was conducted on behalf of Innovation, Science
and Economic Development.
In the coming months the report will be available
from Library and Archives Canada.