Microsoft opens 2026 Quantum Pioneers Program for measurement-based topological quantum computing proposals

Microsoft has announced a call for research proposals under its 2026 Quantum Research Pioneers Program. The program focuses on measurement-based approaches to topological quantum computing. The initiative targets foundational research areas including measurement-based quantum logic, error correction, simulation, and early fault-tolerant experiments. Selected academic proposals may receive up to $200,000 in funding. Applications open on November 15, 2025, and close on January 31, 2026. Funding decisions are expected on March 15, 2026. The program begins on August 1, 2026, and runs for 12 months. Proposals must include an executive summary, a five-page project description, and a short curriculum vitae for each principal investigator. The program is open to professors at universities or degree-granting research institutions worldwide. Each applicant may serve as a principal investigator or co-principal investigator on one proposal per year, with a maximum of two principal investigators per proposal. Microsoft stated that the research areas represent steps toward building a quantum computer with scientific and industrial relevance. Proposals may include collaboration with the Microsoft Quantum team where appropriate.