Bechtle Advances European Quantum Innovation With University TechCampus Deployment

IQM Spark (© IQM)

(IN BRIEF) Bechtle has been commissioned by Heilbronn University of Applied Sciences to deliver and integrate an IQM Spark quantum computer at the university’s TechCampus, providing on-site access to superconducting qubit technology for education, research, and applied development. The project includes full system integration, long-term operational support, and comprehensive training, with commissioning scheduled for 2026. By deploying European quantum hardware and strengthening regional innovation ecosystems, the initiative supports technological sovereignty while building critical quantum expertise at the intersection of computing, AI, and data-driven applications.

(PRESS RELEASE) NECKARSULM, 21-Jan-2026 — /EuropaWire/ — Bechtle AG, one of Europe’s leading IT service providers, has been selected by Heilbronn University of Applied Sciences to deliver, install, and support a superconducting quantum computer supplied by IQM Quantum Computers, marking a significant milestone in the expansion of quantum computing capabilities for research, education, and applied sciences in Germany. The project will see the deployment of an IQM Spark quantum system at the university’s TechCampus, with commissioning planned for 2026.

The installation will provide Heilbronn University of Applied Sciences with a dedicated on-site quantum computing platform, enabling direct access to real quantum hardware for students, researchers, and industry partners. The 5-qubit system is designed to support teaching, applied research, and early-stage development projects, with a particular focus on the growing intersection between quantum computing, artificial intelligence, and data-driven technologies.

As Germany’s leading IT system house, Bechtle is responsible for the full integration of the quantum computer into the university’s existing IT and data infrastructure. This includes technical pre-assessment of facilities, professional hardware installation, system commissioning, calibration, and long-term operational support. Bechtle will initially provide system operation and maintenance services for three years, supported by a multi-tier support model that combines local expertise from its IT System House in Neckarsulm, specialist resources from the Quantum Technology Competence Centre in Bonn, and direct manufacturer support from IQM.

The quantum system will be housed in a dedicated laboratory space on the TechCampus, prioritising energy-efficient operation and a resource-conscious approach to high-performance computing. Open software frameworks will allow seamless integration with existing IT, cloud, and AI environments, enabling users to rapidly develop proofs of concept and apply quantum methods across a wide range of academic and industrial use cases.

The project also places strong emphasis on long-term capability building. Bechtle and IQM will deliver structured onboarding and training programmes for university staff, covering the fundamentals of quantum computing, system operation, maintenance, and practical applications in education and research. This approach is intended to embed quantum computing expertise across degree programmes, continuing education, and collaborative research initiatives at an early stage.

The deployment builds on Bechtle’s strategic partnership with IQM, a European manufacturer specialising in superconducting qubit technology. Bechtle became IQM’s first sales partner in 2024 and operates a dedicated Quantum Technology Competence Centre in Bonn, which manages certification requirements and supports the deployment and operation of this highly complex technology across customer environments.

Beyond its academic impact, the project contributes to strengthening Europe’s digital and technological sovereignty. By using European-developed quantum hardware, operating the system locally, and fostering close collaboration between the university, systems integrator, and manufacturer, expertise, data, and value creation remain within Europe. At the same time, the initiative supports the growth of regional innovation ecosystems and supply chains in a strategically important technology field.

The project aligns with the objectives of the Quantum Computing Heilbronn Initiative and complements existing regional innovation structures, including IPAI Heilbronn as a European AI ecosystem. Together, these initiatives aim to accelerate the transfer of research outcomes into industrial and commercial applications, reinforcing Heilbronn’s role as a hub for advanced digital technologies.

About Bechtle

Bechtle is one of Europe’s leading IT service providers. We create future-ready IT architectures encompassing on-prem and multi-cloud infrastructures, modern workplace solutions, resilient security, artificial intelligence and a full range of managed services. Our customers also benefit from our smart financing solutions and circular IT offering, helping them achieve their ESG goals. Through our subsidiaries, we are recognised as a leading specialist in enterprise applications, particularly PLM and ERP solutions. Operating from 120 locations across 14 European countries, we combine personal, local service with a digital offering as part of our global multichannel strategy. With over 16,000 employees, we are always close to our B2G and B2B customers, from SMEs to large international organisations. Bechtle is listed on the MDAX and TecDAX indexes. In 2024, the company generated a revenue of €6.31 bn. Read more at: bechtle.com

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SOURCE: Bechtle AG