IonQ
IonQ, one of the world’s leading developers of quantum computers, has chosen Gothenburg for its European expansion.
The establishment is taking place in close collaboration with AstraZeneca and Business Region Gothenburg, strengthening the region’s position as an international hub for deep tech, chemistry, and life science.
Sweden has a clear growth strategy in quantum technology. The quality of local expertise, the strength of Gothenburg’s universities, and the significant R&D footprint of major companies in the Gothenburg region position the city as an excellent location for innovative deep‑tech companies such as IonQ
Background
IonQ was introduced to Business Region Gothenburg through our strong collaboration with Business Sweden and our active work to attract life‑science and tech companies to the Gothenburg region.
IonQ is a fast‑growing U.S. quantum technology company with the ambition to build the world’s most powerful quantum computers. The company collaborates globally with Microsoft, Amazon, and Google, and has also established its high‑volume manufacturing facility in Seattle.
The case in brief
| Company: | IonQ |
| Industry: | Life Science |
| Background: | Need for a European presence in quantum chemistry |
| Result: | A new development center in Gothenburg and a deepened collaboration with AstraZeneca BioVentureHub |
IonQ’s establishment highlights the strength of Gothenburg’s innovation ecosystem. We have been able to support them through contacts, networks, and strong regional anchoring—and we look forward to following the development of their European venture here in the region.
How we supported the establishment
Request
IonQ was looking for a location in Europe where they could build their team and advance quantum computing for chemistry close to industries such as pharmaceuticals, aerospace, automotive, and AI. They needed an innovation environment with strong research and development, cutting-edge expertise in chemistry, life sciences, and quantum technology, opportunities for partnerships with global companies, and local support throughout the entire establishment process.
Solution
At BRG, we supported IonQ in establishing connections with key research and industry environments in the region, coordinated the dialogue with AstraZeneca and BioVentureHub, and highlighted Gothenburg’s strengths in deep tech, life science, and quantum technology. Through advisory services and local support throughout the process, IonQ was able to quickly identify the right environment for its new center together with BioVentureHub.
Result
The establishment delivered clear value for both IonQ and the region. Gothenburg becomes the company’s European center for quantum computing in chemistry, while the region is strengthened within life science through technology that has the potential to transform how medicines are developed. It also opens up new opportunities for companies in aerospace, automotive, AI, and energy optimization, and further strengthens Gothenburg’s position as a growing deep‑tech hub.
Value impact
IonQ evaluated several European alternatives before first getting in touch with us. This was followed by visits and dialogues with universities and companies in the region, as well as in‑depth discussions with AstraZeneca. The process ultimately led to the decision to establish operations at BioVentureHub in Gothenburg, where recruitment of the first quantum chemistry team has now begun.
Workprocess
Our approach to supporting IonQ’s establishment
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1
Needs and environment analysis
We began by gaining a clear understanding of IonQ’s requirements, talent needs, and the opportunities available within the region’s research and innovation environments.
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2
Guidance on the work process
We clarified the steps required for the establishment process—from regulatory frameworks and enabling conditions to identifying the environments best aligned with their operations in quantum technology and chemical computing.
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3
Facilities and innovation environments
We presented potential locations and environments and supported IonQ in identifying the right research‑proximate setting. This led to the decision to establish operations at AstraZeneca BioVentureHub.
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4
Contacts, partnerships, and networks
Once the establishment decision had been made, we shifted to hands‑on support for the start‑up phase in the Gothenburg region—including support for the initial recruitment within quantum chemistry.
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5Invest and establishment
Get support from us!
At Business Region Gothenburg, we support you by offering a smooth and reliable establishment process in the Gothenburg region—tailored to your specific needs.
Meet IonQ
IonQ is a U.S.-based quantum technology company founded in Maryland. The company is a global leader in quantum computing, delivering its services via the cloud while simultaneously developing next‑generation hardware in Seattle. With its establishment in Gothenburg, the company is investing in advanced chemical computations and close collaboration with European research and industry partners.
Founded: USA
Employees: approx. 350 (2024)
Focus: Quantum computers and applied quantum chemistry
Partnerships: Microsoft, Amazon, Google
New establishment: Quantum Computational Chemistry Centre of Excellence, Gothenburg
Contact me for more information
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Kent Jellmund
Investment Advisor Contact me about: Establish and invest, ICT, Tech
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About Tech in Gothenburg
Gothenburg is a strong tech hub where both deep tech and digital innovation flourish. Solutions that contribute to sustainable development and longterm value are created here – from AI to advanced visualization and software.
At Business Region Gothenburg, we help you find the right talent, partnerships, and development environments. We guide companies and investors into an ecosystem where technology meets societal value.
Published: May 12, 2026