Government of Canada Makes Strategic Investment in Institute for Quantum Computing

WATERLOO, ONTARIO, Apr 07 (MARKET WIRE) --
The Honourable Gary Goodyear, Minister of State (Science and Technology),
today announced a strategic investment in the Institute for Quantum
Computing (IQC) at the University of Waterloo. The investment furthers
the Government of Canada's long-term commitment to fostering excellence
in science and technology (S&T) through its national S&T Strategy.

"This strategic investment will help make Canada a global leader in the
field of quantum technology and attract some of the best and brightest
researchers and students from Canada and around the world," said Minister
of State Goodyear. "With this investment, the IQC will be better
positioned to build on existing successes and contribute to Canada's
global advantage by helping to create jobs, improve the quality of life
for all Canadians and strengthen the economy for future generations."

The IQC, already a symbol of Canada's achievement in information and
communication technology, will now be in a better position to strengthen
Canada's reputation as a pioneer in the field of quantum information. The
IQC's plans include developing applications and devices for
commercialization that will, for example, replace the present generation
of computers with devices that may factor large numbers 10 000 times
faster than today's computers.

Through this $50-million investment, the IQC will be able to build,
purchase and recruit the resources needed to lead the world towards the
next generation of computer technology. As an integrated centre for
research, the Institute will support the training of highly qualified
personnel and the development of new knowledge. The IQC will foster a
multi-disciplinary approach and promote collaboration among scientists as
well as industry and government partners, an approach that could yield
profound discoveries.

"IQC is proud of the recognition both from the Government of Canada and
the international research community in quantum information science,"
said Dr. Raymond Laflamme, Director of the Institute. "We are determined
to be at the forefront on the leading edge of research in a field of
tremendous potential for the future of Canada."

In May 2007, the Prime Minister released the Government of Canada's
national S&T Strategy, Mobilizing Science and Technology to Canada's
Advantage, setting out a multi-year framework to improve Canada's
long-term competitiveness and quality of life. The Strategy includes a
commitment to attract and retain talent, support world-leading research
and ensure that research discoveries are transformed into practical
applications.

As a part of its ongoing support for this strategy, the government has
pledged over $2.2 billion in new S&T funding. Canada's Economic Action
Plan provides more than $5.1 billion toward S&T initiatives. This measure
will contribute to the creation of a stronger, more innovative economy
and a more prosperous Canada.

Contacts:
Office of the Honourable Gary Goodyear
Minister of State (Science and Technology)
Gary Toft - Director of Communications
613-943-7599

Industry Canada
Media Relations
613-943-2502

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