Singapore Quantum Communications Testbed
Grant program supporting pilots on Singapore's national quantum communications testbed for secure networks and satellite links.
- Program Type
- Grant
- Deadline
- May 30, 2025
- Locations
- Singapore
- Source
- National Quantum-Safe Network Programme
- Reviewed by
JJ Ben-Joseph- Last Updated
- Oct 28, 2025
Singapore Quantum Communications Testbed
Program Overview and Strategic Focus
The Singapore Quantum Communications Testbed responds to testing interoperability and scalability of quantum-secure networks by enabling telecom operators, research labs, and cybersecurity startups within Singapore building quantum-secure communications for finance, defence, and smart nation services. It prioritises solutions that can rapidly demonstrate impact while building institutions that champion inclusive, sustainable growth.
Applicants are expected to articulate how their work contributes to commercial quantum communications applications and standards leadership and leverages ecosystems described in collaboration among academia, industry, and government agencies. Evaluation panels look for operational plans that balance financial discipline with cultural and environmental stewardship unique to the region.
Funding Structure and Support Services
The program layers grants for pilots, hardware integration, and cybersecurity validation with advisory services so teams can move from pilots to resilient operations. Delivery partners curate expertise across finance, policy, and community engagement to translate strategic visions into executable roadmaps.
The program layers capital with capability-building services such as:
- Access to quantum key distribution testbed and satellite links
- Cybersecurity certification support and red teaming
- Commercialisation advisory connecting partners with financial and government clients
- Standards development workshops with international bodies
| Cost Category | Description | Indicative Amount | Expected Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hardware Integration | Quantum key distribution equipment and network integration | SGD $2,600,000 | Operational quantum-secure network segments |
| Software and Security | Quantum-resistant protocols, authentication, and monitoring | SGD $1,800,000 | Robust cybersecurity and interoperability |
| Pilot Operations | Deployment, maintenance, and performance testing | SGD $1,200,000 | Validated performance across diverse use cases |
| Commercialisation and Standards | Business model development and standards contributions | SGD $600,000 | Market-ready offerings and policy influence |
Eligibility Deep Dive and Readiness Signals
Eligible applicants must already demonstrate momentum in deploying quantum technologies alongside classical infrastructure. Proposals should clearly outline governance models, risk management frameworks, and collaboration protocols that honour local stakeholders.
Key eligibility markers include:
- Consortium with telecom operator participation
- Security assurance plan covering key lifecycle and threat scenarios
- Export control compliance for quantum technologies
- Plan for training quantum communications talent
Application Pathway and Timeline Management
Selected consortia undertake 18-month pilots with milestone demos at the Singapore International Cyber Week.
Suggested internal timeline checkpoints:
- February 2025: Submit concept proposal and security plan
- April 2025: Present technical architecture to evaluation panel
- July 2025: Finalise grant agreement and access testbed
- December 2025: Demonstrate midterm results at Singapore International Cyber Week
- June 2026: Complete pilot and submit commercialization roadmap
Strategic Positioning Tips for Competitive Proposals
Competitive submissions highlight differentiated value propositions that reinforce quantum-secure communications leadership. Narratives should weave quantitative evidence with community stories that show an authentic commitment to shared prosperity.
Focus proposal narratives on:
- Demonstrate interoperability with existing telecom infrastructure
- Highlight applications for finance, defence, or smart city services
- Integrate quantum-resistant cryptography alongside QKD
- Plan for regional expansion and export opportunities
- Contribute to international standards and knowledge sharing
Impact Measurement and Learning Agenda
Impact management is integral to the opportunity; organisers expect teams to translate Singapore showcasing operational quantum-safe networks that safeguard digital infrastructure into measurable indicators and adaptive learning loops. Applicants should describe how data will inform iterative improvements and policy dialogue.
Illustrative indicators to embed in your monitoring framework:
- Quantum-secure network uptime and latency
- Number of critical services secured by pilot
- Security incidents detected and mitigated
- Commercial partnerships or contracts secured
- Talent trained in quantum communications
Consortia submit technical progress, security evaluations, and commercialization plans to the national program office.
Documentation and Submission Checklist
Prepare technical architecture, security assessments, and partner commitments to secure testbed access.
- Consortium agreements and partner roles
- Technical architecture and security documentation
- Budget and resource plan
- Risk assessment and mitigation plan
- Commercialisation strategy and customer letters
Pilots demonstrating secure, scalable quantum communications can anchor Singapore’s role in global cybersecurity innovation.