The Florida Board of Governors has received an update on the Florida Alliance for Quantum Technology (FAQT), a new partnership involving all 12 public universities in the State University System of Florida, along with industry and government partners. The initiative aims to position Florida as a leading hub for quantum technology research, workforce development, and industry collaboration.
FAQT was established in October 2025 when 15 Florida universities signed a memorandum of understanding at the Florida Quantum Beach Conference. The alliance is designed to coordinate expertise in quantum engineering and science across academic institutions, state agencies, private companies, and investors. Its goals include accelerating research, commercialization efforts, and workforce training related to quantum technologies.
“I applaud our universities for their vision and investment in quantum research and workforce development,” said State University System Chancellor Ray Rodrigues. “Through their collective efforts, anchored by the Florida Alliance for Quantum Technology, our institutions are fueling job creation and positioning Florida as a national leader.”
Florida Secretary of Commerce J. Alex Kelly emphasized the state’s commitment to higher education and talent development through this collaboration: “Florida’s consistent track record of being the best state in the nation for higher education, talent attraction and development, and entrepreneurship demonstrates our state’s commitments to workforce development. By collaborating with Florida’s top-tier public and private universities, and state colleges, we are building the way forward for the talent and innovation that will drive the problem solving capabilities that quantum technologies can bring to national security, protecting personal and financial data, manufacturing, aerospace and aviation, military and defense, finance and fintech, life sciences and energy production—across the state.”
The FAQT network intends to build connections among technical experts at member institutions. Key objectives include developing robust education programs focused on quantum skills; attracting businesses specializing in quantum technologies; advancing foundational research needed for new applications; and forming partnerships aimed at drawing federal or private investments.
“Quantum science is a critical area of investment for the nation, state and our university system,” said Dr. Stacey S. Patterson of Florida State University. “This MOU sends a clear signal that our universities are united in this effort to use their talent and resources to build the quantum workforce and develop next generation technologies.”
Dr. Winston Schoenfeld from University of Central Florida added: “Florida’s universities bring exceptional strength and momentum to this emerging field. As Florida’s technological university, UCF is proud to be part of the team leading this work. By aligning the collective expertise of faculty and researchers across our state, this partnership accelerates innovation, strengthens our talent pipeline, and positions Florida to set the national standard in the quantum era.”
Dr. David Norton from University of Florida noted: “Quantum technologies promise to revolutionize computation, communication, security, and beyond. Working with the state and industry, our universities can accelerate Florida’s advancement in these areas which are critically important to our economic and national security.”
The ongoing progress of FAQT was presented by Drs. Norton (University of Florida), Patterson (Florida State University), Schoenfeld (University of Central Florida) before the Board’s Strategic Planning Committee.
More information about FAQT is available at faqt-florida.org while meeting materials can be found at flbog.edu/session/strategic-planning-committee-19bc2owe.
