Defined demand
Start with a partner need that is specific enough to test and important enough to own.
For startups
Your technology deserves a real test.
Quantum helps MVP+ teams move from a promising corporate introduction to a defined use case, a working POC, and the evidence needed for the next commercial conversation.
Best-fit profile
- Working product: MVP or beta
- Commonly TRL 5+
- Committed full-time team
- One of Quantum’s four sectors
Equity-freeNo program fee in SPARK
The commercial gap
More than access. A way to make access useful.
A warm introduction is only the beginning. Industrial adoption needs a use case, a champion, resources, success criteria, and a shared process that survives everyday operations.
Decision-maker access
Work with the business and technical people who can shape the POC and act on its result.
A relevant beta site
Validate in an operating context that exposes the questions a lab demo cannot.
POC project support
Keep scope, resources, stakeholders, milestones, and evaluation aligned from start to finish.
Cross-sector opportunity
Find adjacent use cases across automotive, logistics, Industry 4.0, and energy.
A clearer next step
Finish with evidence that supports refinement, expansion, commercialization, or a fast no.
Choose your route
Two tracks. One focus on commercial fit.
Structured cohortEquity-free
Quantum SPARK
A POC runway for MVP+ startups selected around concrete partner interest and a use case with a committed internal champion.
- Partner evaluation and focused due diligence
- POC use-case identification and design
- Workshops and cross-industry expertise
- Execution support and continued ecosystem access
Always-on routeFlexible timing
The Agile Track
A continuous route for technologies that match an active need when cohort timing or product stage calls for a different pace.
- Ongoing challenge and technology matching
- Flexible process around partner availability
- Longer exploration when the use case needs it
- The same focus on an executable POC
Built for fit
A smaller team should not have to navigate a larger company alone.
Quantum translates requirements in both directions, keeps the POC grounded in partner operations, and helps teams resolve the practical questions that stall otherwise promising collaborations.
Conceptual visualization · startup × industry
Application path
Know what happens after you click apply.
Selection is driven by fit with a real partner need. Strong technology alone is not enough; there must be a viable route to a POC.
- 01
Tell us what you’ve built
- 02
Fit review and due diligence
- 03
Partner screening
- 04
Use-case definition
- 05
POC scope and kickoff
Quick fit check
Could your startup be POC-ready?
Check the statements that apply. Quantum generally works best with MVP+ teams ready to test around a defined industrial need.
Before you apply
Useful answers, upfront.
What does SPARK cost?
SPARK is presented as equity-free, with no fee charged to participating startups.
Which startup stages are the best fit?
Quantum generally looks for a working MVP or beta, a full-time team, and technology around TRL 5 or above. Post-seed teams often align well, but different funding stages can apply.
What determines selection?
A concrete partner use case, an internal champion, adequate resources, and the ability to execute a focused POC are central to selection.
What happens if we are not selected?
Your technology may still be relevant to a later challenge or partner. Teams can return as the product or the partner need evolves.
Does a successful POC guarantee a commercial deal?
No. The POC produces evidence for a business decision. It is designed to improve the quality and speed of that decision, not guarantee a purchase.