SparQ Access programme

The SparQ Access programme

The NQCC SparQ Access programme provides access to assured quantum compute services to grow the UK’s quantum computing user community.

The programme is part of the NQCC’s ‘SparQ initiative to support quantum readiness for the UK. It aims to accelerate scientific research, innovation, skills development and application discovery.

Users may request access to a range of state-of-the-art quantum computing platforms from leading technology providers. The programme seeks to remove access barriers and support multi-platform exploration and development.

Quantum computing platforms

The following quantum computing platforms are currently available through the SparQ Access Programme:

Azure Quantum

Pasqal

  • Emu-TN
  • Fresnel1

Rigetti

  • Ankaa-3 
  • Cepheus-1-36Q

IonQ

  • Aria 1
  • Forte 1
  • Forte Enterprise 1

Quantinuum

  • H 2 Series

AWS BRAKET

IonQ

  • Forte Enterprise
  • Forte 1
  • Aria 1

Rigetti

  • Ankaa-3

IQM

  • Garnet
  • Emerald

QuEra

  • Aquila

AQT

  • IBEX Q1

Amazon Simulators

  • SV1
  • DM1
  • TN1

IBM Quantum

US and EU based systems across the following models:

  • Heron r2
  • Heron r3
  • Eagle r3
  • Nighthawk r1

 

 

Access for academic users

Users from the UK academic community may apply for access to quantum computing resources in support of research activities at UK universities. Access is awarded on a three-month basis, subject to a rolling application and review process.

  • Applications for the Q2 2026 period (1st May – 31st July 2026) is now open. Deadline to submit is 4pm on 27th March 2026.
  • To submit a proposal, click here.

Access associated with funded research and development calls

The NQCC seeks to promote use-case discovery through a range of funding calls under the SparQ initiative.

In addition to NQCC application engineering expertise, collaborative Proof of Concepts projects now offer quantum computing resources as part of the award package.

Please monitor Funding opportunities – NQCC for the latest relevant funding calls.

Access for a partner institution or programme

The NQCC may consider allocation of access to a partner council or UK institution to deliver a programme aligned to UK quantum readiness objectives.

Please click here to submit preliminary details of your proposed programme/activity.