Alexandra Beckstein, CEO of QAI Ventures, and Damir Bogdan, CEO of Quantum Basel

Alexandra Beckstein, CEO of QAI Ventures, and Damir Bogdan, CEO of Quantum Basel, are interviewed by Yuval Boger.

Read the full transcript or listen to the episode here.

Introduction: Yuval hosts a discussion with Alexandra, head of QaiVentures, and Damir, CEO of Quantum Basel.

Alexandra's Role: Alexandra leads QaiVentures, focusing on investing in and accelerating quantum technology startups. QaiVentures is part of an innovation ecosystem called Uptown Basel in Basel, Switzerland.

Damir's Role: Damir is the CEO of Quantum Basel, a technology part of Uptown Basel, dedicated to combating deindustrialization in Switzerland through technology and sustainability, with a focus on quantum computing and AI.

Relationship Between QaiVentures and Quantum Basel: Both entities are part of the Uptown Basel campus and collaborate closely, with QaiVentures investing in startups and Quantum Basel providing technology and research support.

Basel as a Location: Basel was chosen due to its private funding, proximity to life sciences companies, and its industrial importance in Switzerland. The investment in Basel's innovation campus is significant, aiming for long-term impact.

Funding and Government Support: Switzerland's quantum computing initiatives are primarily privately funded, with limited government support compared to other European nations.

Accelerator Program: QaiVentures' accelerator program focuses on creating an ecosystem around startups, offering global opportunities and aiming to establish collaborations between startups and industry partners.

Access to Quantum Computers: Quantum Basel provides access to quantum computers, both cloud-based and (from 2024) on-premises, through partnerships with companies like IBM, D-Wave, and IonQ.

Global Partnerships and Future Vision: Both leaders discuss their vision for the future, emphasizing the development and democratization of quantum technology, expanding global partnerships, and incorporating ethical considerations into their work.

Professional Motivations and Challenges: Alexandra and Damir share their motivations and the excitement for the potential of quantum technology, along with the challenges of keeping up with rapid developments and global collaborations.

Read the full transcript or listen to the episode here.