The NMI-Q initiative – accelerating the development and adoption of quantum technologies through trusted measurements

NMI-Q aspires to lead metrology activities in an agile and responsive manner to foster innovation and keep pace with rapidly evolving quantum technologies. The eight signatory members include Australia (NMIA), Canada (NRC), France (LNE), Germany (PTB), Italy (INRiM), Japan (NMIJ), the United Kingdom (NPL),  and the United States (NIST) . This agreement was signed in Paris, at the LNE premises, on Wednesday 15th October 2025. 

A common framework for developing best practices and international standards

Supported by heads of states and governments at the G7 Leaders' Summit in June 2025 in Canada, the signing of this MoU recognizes the need for international collaboration between governments for harnessing the full potential of quantum technologies. NMI-Q establishes a framework bringing together national metrology institutes in order to advance the measurement and testing work essential to the development of international standards for quantum technologies.

A key driver for innovation

The signing of this MoU comes at a time when many quantum technologies are in the early stages of development. These technologies are now finding applications in computing, sensing and communication, impacting multiple sectors such as manufacturing, health, energy, materials, and logistics. Working with industry and academia, NMI-Q aims to ensure that these technologies are based on reliable, comparable and objective measurement data and specifications, in order to serve and promote the public interest by fostering innovation, commercialization and societal impact.

NMI-Q objectives

NMI-Q will accelerate the development and adoption of quantum technologies through coordinated development and sharing of measurement best practices in support of future standardization.