Florida has the pieces of a leading quantum and defense ecosystem — the next step is connecting them. That was the central takeaway from the Florida Quantum Ecosystem study, prepared by The Quantum Insider in partnership with the Business Development Board of the Palm Beaches and commissioned by FloridaCommerce.
A look at the study was presented in detail by The Quantum Insider at Quantum Beach 2026 in West Palm Beach, where researchers, investors, founders, and policymakers convened to review the state’s progress and set the next 12-month priorities.
Key Takeaways from the Report
The study examines whether Florida can lead the next wave of quantum and defense innovation — and finds the foundation is already in place. Highlights include:
- A $1.9 trillion state economy with sectors facing quantum-relevant challenges, 21 major military installations, and more than half of all U.S. orbital launches
- Defense as the anchor, with Florida positioned for deployment thanks to its three combatant commands
- A 12-month surge of new assets, including Florida Atlantic University’s D-Wave system, Florida International University’s IonQ system, the Palm Beach State College Quantum Innovation Center, and a quantum-safe corridor on Florida LambdaRail
- Coordination identified as the state’s primary opportunity gap
- Five recommended priorities for the next 12 months, including statewide post-quantum readiness ahead of 2027 federal deadlines
For a closer look at the context behind the study, read BDB’s original press release: Florida Positioned as an Emerging Leader in Defense-Led Quantum Technology.
Access the Report
The Florida Quantum Ecosystem report is a critical read for anyone tracking the state’s position in defense, cybersecurity, and quantum computing — and the roadmap for what comes next.
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