University of Arkansas, D-Wave to partner on quantum computing project

D-Wave Quantum Inc., a Palo Alto, Calif.-based quantum computing company, and the Supply Chain Management Research Center in the Sam M. Walton College of Business at the University of Arkansas are collaborating to explore quantum computing’s impact on complex supply chain problems.

According to a Monday (Oct. 5) news release, the collaboration establishes the Quantum Supply Chain Initiative Support Fund to advance thought leadership, education, and independent research on applying quantum computing to supply chain management across retail, transportation and national defense. D-Wave and the UA announced the collaboration Monday at CSCMP EDGE 2026, a four-day conference and exhibition hosted in Nashville, Tenn., by the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals.

D-Wave has also joined the Supply Chain Management Research Center’s partnership program, which has more than 25 industry partners. A UA spokeswoman said D-Wave gave $50,000 for the initiative and will receive entitlements from the Supply Chain Management Research Center. Membership is year-to-year, and the gift is project-focused “instead of a cadenced amount.” A UA spokesman said the entitlements provide access to UA events and students.