Unitary Foundation Microgrant
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Quick Answer
Provides US$4,000 cash grants to explorers and projects worldwide working on open-source quantum software, education, or hardware prototypes, with a simple application process.
- Funding amount
- Varies
- Funding type
- Grant
- Provider
- Unitary Foundation
- Application deadline
- Rolling
- Location
- International
About this grant
The Unitary Foundation is a pioneering 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to fostering a robust and inclusive quantum technology ecosystem. Its core mission is to ensure that the benefits of quantum advancements are accessible to the broadest possible community. The foundation achieves this through several key initiatives: offering microgrants, conducting impactful research, and cultivating an active open-source quantum tech community. The microgrant program is specifically designed to empower individuals and teams, referred to as 'explorers,' from across the globe who are working on innovative quantum technologies. These projects encompass a wide range, including the development of open-source quantum software, creation of educational materials and workshops to disseminate knowledge, and the prototyping of novel quantum sensors. A cornerstone of this program is its simplicity and accessibility; applicants are not required to have any formal organizational affiliation, making it ideal for independent innovators and small teams. The application process is streamlined, requiring only a short form and a brief two-minute video submission.
Eligibility
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Grant providers
Provider
Unitary FoundationBenefits & Funding
- Fund type
- Grant
- Equity
- Equity-free
- Repayment
- Non-repayable
What You Get
- US$4,000 (approximately ₹3.32 lakh) in cash grants provided directly to selected projects. This non-repayable funding is intended to provide critical early-stage financial support, enabling grantees to advance their quantum technology initiatives without diluting equity or incurring debt.
- Access to an exclusive open-source quantum technology community hosted on Discord, offering invaluable networking opportunities, peer collaboration, and participation in hackathons and other community events. This fosters a supportive environment for knowledge exchange and project development.
- Support for a diverse array of projects across various quantum technology domains, including innovative open-source software development, educational outreach initiatives, and cutting-edge hardware prototypes. The program is designed to be highly flexible, accommodating a wide spectrum of creative and impactful ideas in the quantum space.
- Disbursement
- Lump Sum
- Bootstrap friendly
- Yes
Timelines & Process
Applications
Rolling basis
Selection Process
The selection process for the Unitary Foundation Microgrant program is designed to be straightforward and merit-based. Applications are carefully reviewed by a dedicated team at the Unitary Foundation. The primary criteria for evaluation include the originality and feasibility of the quantum technology project idea, its potential contribution to the open-source quantum ecosystem, and the clarity and conviction presented in the application form and the accompanying two-minute video. The program seeks to identify and support impactful 'explorers' who are driving innovation in quantum computing, sensing, and related fields. Emphasis is placed on projects that align with the foundation's mission of creating a widely beneficial quantum technology ecosystem. While specific judging panels are not detailed, the internal team conducts a thorough assessment to ensure the most promising projects are selected for funding.
Application Process
- 1
Submit Application
Complete the short application form and submit a two-minute video describing your quantum tech project.
You - 2
- 3
- 4
How to apply
Four steps from draft to disbursement — one action each.
- 1
Draft your application
Answer the form inside the grant tracker — AI drafts each response using your past answers, so you're not starting from a blank page.
- 2
Submit on the official portal
Use the official application link and verify all details before final submission.
- 3
Follow up
Reach out 5–7 days after submitting to confirm receipt and ask about the review timeline.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of projects are eligible?
Projects could be open-source quantum software development, creation of educational materials and workshops, or even a new quantum sensor prototype. The program is broad and open to many innovative quantum tech ideas.
Is organizational affiliation required to apply?
No, applicants are explicitly not required to have any organizational affiliation. This makes the program accessible to individuals, student teams, and informal groups.
How simple is the application process?
The application process is designed for simplicity, requiring only a short online form and a two-minute video presentation of your project idea.
How much funding is provided through the microgrant?
The program provides $4,000 USD (approximately ₹3.32 lakh INR) in cash grants to selected quantum technology projects.
What other support does Unitary Foundation offer besides grants?
Beyond microgrants, the Unitary Foundation conducts its own research (e.g., developing `mitiq` for error mitigation, `metriq` for benchmarks, `ucc` for compilers, `clifft` for simulators) and fosters a vibrant open-source quantum tech community through hackathons and events on Discord.
Can I apply from anywhere in the world?
Yes, the program aims to fund "explorers across the world," indicating that applications are welcome from global participants.
Is there a deadline for applications?
The microgrant program accepts applications on a rolling basis, meaning there isn't a fixed deadline and you can apply at any time.
Sources
Data on this page is compiled from official program and provider references.
