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When people think about the next wave of technological innovation, artificial intelligence often dominates the conversation. But another breakthrough is rapidly advancing, one that will shape economic competitiveness, cybersecurity, and national security in the years ahead: quantum technology.

At a high level, quantum computing uses quantum bits, or “qubits” which differ from the binary bits used in traditional computing. This allows quantum systems to evaluate many possibilities at once rather than one at a time, making them uniquely suited to solve complex problems that are currently out of reach for even the most advanced supercomputers. The implications are practical and immediate.

Quantum has the potential to optimize electric grids at scale, enhance financial modeling, accelerate drug discovery, improve supply chain logistics, and strengthen the next generation of cybersecurity – industries that are core to Texas’s economy. This is not theoretical. Texas Association of Business (TAB) member company IBM is already advancing real-world quantum applications, developing systems that can model complex chemical reactions, optimize materials, and integrate quantum capabilities into existing high-performance computing environments – demonstrating that this technology is closer to practical use than many realize. Institutions like the Cleveland Clinic are also leveraging quantum computing to accelerate medical research and drug discovery, further reinforcing its practical impact.

This is not a distant possibility; it is one that requires preparation now.

The economic opportunity is equally significant. McKinsey & Co. estimates that quantum technologies could generate $1-2 trillion in global economic value annually within the next decade, with impacts concentrated in sectors where Texas already leads. Workforce demand is expected to scale alongside that growth, reinforcing the long-term economic stakes. Fortunately, Texas has already taken an important first step.

With the passage of the Texas Quantum Initiative, the state established a framework to support research, workforce development, and industry collaboration. Combined with a strong network of research institutions, a skilled workforce, and a consistently pro-business environment, Texas has the foundation not only to compete, but to lead. But the window is narrowing.

Federal policymakers have already recognized the urgency. Through the National Quantum Initiative and continued investment, the United States has prioritized quantum technology for both economic leadership and national security. At the same time, states like New Mexico, Illinois, New York, Maryland and Colorado are moving aggressively to align investment, policy, and industry engagement.

Without a coordinated, business-driven strategy, Texas risks falling behind in a sector that will define the next generation of economic growth and national security capability.

The path forward is clear. Quantum is not a niche technology; it is a foundational one with direct implications for industries that drive the state’s economy and the infrastructure that supports it. Maintaining Texas’s competitive advantage will require deliberate action to connect innovation with real economic outcomes.

That is where TAB is uniquely positioned to lead.

As the voice of business in Texas, TAB brings the credibility, policy expertise, and relationships necessary to translate emerging technologies into clear, actionable priorities for state leaders. TAB serves as a direct link between business leaders and policymakers, ensuring that innovation policy is grounded in real-world application and economic impact.

This is a moment that requires clarity and urgency. Texas didn’t become a national economic leader by waiting to see how markets develop – we built it by acting early, aligning policy, and creating an environment where innovation can scale. Quantum technology is no different. Texas has the assets, the talent, and the economic foundation to lead.

Texas has an opportunity to define the market – and TAB is well-positioned to help lead the way.

-Alana Garrett, Director, Government Affairs, Texas Association of Business

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