Denmark’s EIFO and Novo Nordisk Foundation acquire world’s most powerful quantum computer from Microsoft

Investing.com -- Denmark’s export and investment fund EIFO and the Novo Nordisk (NYSE:NVO) Foundation are investing €80 million to establish QuNorth, a new Nordic quantum initiative that will house the world’s most powerful quantum computer.

The computer, named Magne after the son of Thor in Norse mythology, will be delivered through a partnership between Microsoft and Atom Computing. Construction will begin in autumn 2025, with the system expected to be operational by early 2027.

Magne represents one of the first Level 2 quantum systems globally, characterized by its ability to perform calculations using logical qubits. The computer will be 100% Danish-owned, with EIFO and the Novo Nordisk Foundation each investing approximately €40 million.

"A quantum computer of Magne’s caliber maximizes the likelihood that Denmark will be among tomorrow’s winning nations," said Peder Lundquist, CEO of EIFO. "Having access to one of the world’s very few Level 2 quantum computers will give Danish researchers and companies a unique advantage of national significance."

The initiative aims to address concerns that Denmark and the Nordic region risk losing ground in the global quantum race despite their historically strong position in quantum research.

"Today, the Nordic countries have limited access to the latest quantum computers on the market. This means our researchers and companies risk falling behind compared to other parts of the world," said Mads Krogsgaard Thomsen, CEO of the Novo Nordisk Foundation.

Microsoft will equip Magne with specialized quantum software and applications powered by Microsoft Discovery (NASDAQ:WBD), while Atom Computing will provide its "neutral atom" technology, currently considered the best performing quantum technology.

"We are thrilled to deepen our collaboration with Denmark and the Nordics – key to Europe’s quantum ambitions," said Jason Zander, Executive Vice President at Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT). "Together with Atom Computing, we are striving to build the world’s most powerful quantum computer that applies Microsoft’s advanced error correction to Atom Computing’s high-fidelity qubits."

QuNorth plans to build a small organization of around 10 employees focused on ensuring optimal utilization of Magne across commercial and academic users in the Nordic region. The initiative will also establish four PhD/postdoc roles in collaboration with Microsoft.

Danish Minister of Industry, Business and Financial Affairs Morten Bødskov emphasized the strategic importance of the investment: "With the investment in the world’s strongest quantum computer, we are making a solid shift in the global quantum race. This will benefit all of Europe."

QuNorth will present its commercial and academic program at a Nordic quantum event in autumn 2025. Both Magne and QuNorth will be based in Copenhagen.

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