US move into quantum computing adds to a portfolio that spans semiconductors, steel, nuclear, and rare earths

May 21, 2026 - 21:01

The Trump administration is broadening its growing investment footprint, announcing Thursday that it will award grants to nine quantum computing companies, including a new IBM venture, in exchange for equity stakes. This move adds a cutting-edge technology sector to a government portfolio that already includes semiconductors, steel, nuclear energy, and rare earth minerals.

The grants, part of a strategic push to secure American leadership in emerging technologies, aim to accelerate the development of quantum systems that could revolutionize computing power. Officials say the equity stakes give taxpayers a direct financial interest in the success of these firms, rather than simply handing out subsidies.

Critics question whether the government should hold ownership in private companies, warning of potential conflicts of interest and market distortions. Supporters argue that without such investments, the United States risks falling behind China and other rivals in critical tech fields.

The quantum computing initiative follows similar government stakes in domestic semiconductor fabrication plants, steel mills, and rare earth processing facilities. The administration has framed these moves as necessary to rebuild industrial capacity and reduce reliance on foreign supply chains.

IBM's new quantum venture, which will receive a portion of the funding, is expected to focus on commercial applications for the technology. Other recipients include smaller startups working on quantum hardware and software. The government has not disclosed the exact amounts of each grant or the percentage of equity it will receive.