Scope
Reference
C0832
Description
The UK’s National Quantum Computing Centre (NQCC) plans to build and scale quantum computers based on superconducting circuit qubits for its research activities.
This tender is for the purchase of one (1) superconducting qubit control system in the first instance, with the option to procure additional compatible systems and associated upgrades over the contract duration (up to five years) to support the ongoing scaling of NQCC’s quantum computing platforms and related research and development activity.
The control system must enable NQCC researchers to measure and control superconducting multi-qubit systems for experimental research in quantum error correction for superconducting quantum computing. A suitable control system solution that can be scaled and upgraded over the contract term while maintaining technical compatibility will accelerate NQCC’s research programme in superconducting quantum computing.
Total value (estimated)
- £5,000,000 excluding VAT
- £6,000,000 including VAT
Above the relevant threshold
Contract dates (estimated)
- 30 March 2026 to 30 March 2027
- Possible extension to 30 March 2031
- 5 years, 1 day
Description of possible extension:
The initial contract period will be twelve (12) months with a maximum spend of 1 million Pounds sterling (£1,000,000). with the option to extend on an annual basis for up to four (4) years.
The estimated total value of the contract is up to five million pounds sterling (£5,000,000), exclusive of VAT, over a maximum term of five (5) years.
Options
The right to additional purchases while the contract is valid.
Additional QB systems
Main procurement category
Goods
CPV classifications
- 31700000 - Electronic, electromechanical and electrotechnical supplies
Contract locations
- UK - United Kingdom
Participation
Particular suitability
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SME)
Submission
Enquiry deadline
24 February 2026, 2:00pm
Tender submission deadline
6 March 2026, 2:00pm
Submission address and any special instructions
Please note the following steps for accessing this opportunity via the Atamis eSourcing platform:
1. Log in or create an account here: https://ukri2.my.site.com
2. Navigate to the opportunity in the Find an Opportunity section of the site.
3. Select Register Interest (you will not be able to view the tender documentation without registering an interest).
4. Go back to the main menu and navigate to the My Proposals and Quotes section of the site.
5. Select the opportunity from the list. Tender Documents for download are found in the Documents tab
Tenders may be submitted electronically
Yes
Languages that may be used for submission
English
Award decision date (estimated)
13 March 2026
Award criteria
| Name | Type | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| Technical & Quality | Quality | 60.00% |
| Price | Price | 40.00% |
Other information
Conflicts assessment prepared/revised
Yes
Procedure
Procedure type
Open procedure
Contracting authority
UK Research & Innovation (UKRI)
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PDQJ-7126-JDHG
Polaris House
Swindon, Wiltshire
SN2 1FL
United Kingdom
Region: UKK14 - Swindon
Organisation type: Public authority - central government