United Nations Proclaims 2025 as the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology
March 11, 2025 – Palm Beach County, FL – Palm Beach County is taking bold, transformative steps toward the future of technology and innovation, positioning itself at the forefront of global progress as the United Nations declared 2025 as the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology. On March 6, 2025, the Business Development Board of Palm Beach County (BDB) hosted a series of high-level discussions with international leaders from Quantum Coast Capital, SandboxAQ, and IBM Quantum, spotlighting the revolutionary potential of Quantum Computing and Artificial Intelligence. The meetings included top university, college and business leaders from Boca Raton to Jupiter as the BDB continues to work with public and private partners, including the Palm Beach County Board of County Commissioners, CareerSource Palm Beach County and state agencies SelectFlorida and FloridaCommerce.
From roundtable conversations with university presidents to an engaging gathering of over 150 business leaders, the focus was clear—quantum technology is poised to reshape industries across the globe. The BDB is collaborating with leaders to ensure the community is skilled with a ready workforce.
Moderated by Hillary Matchett, CIO of Quantum Coast Capital, the sessions featured experts such as Matt Cimaglia, Founder of Quantum Coast Capital, Marianna Bonanome, Head of AI Strategy & Partnerships at SandboxAQ, and Robert Loredo, Global Quantum Ambassador at IBM Quantum. These thought leaders shared their insights on why quantum advancements are not only imminent but will soon be integrated into every sector—from healthcare and finance to manufacturing and corporate enterprises.
As Palm Beach County has historically been a trailblazer in adopting cutting-edge technologies, such as being the birthplace of IBM’s PC and the world’s first smartphone, Simon, this new chapter in the quantum revolution further solidifies the region’s legacy of forward-thinking innovation. “Palm Beach County has consistently led the way in embracing emerging technologies,” said Kelly Smallridge, President and CEO of the Business Development Board. “With the global spotlight on quantum, it’s crucial for us to align with this seismic shift and prepare our community for what’s next. As the county commissioners partner with us in economic development, it’s our role to ensure that both business leaders and educators are equipped to nurture the workforce of tomorrow and drive transformative change across all industries.”
The day’s discussions began at the BDB office, where leaders from local academia came together for a forward-thinking conversation about embedding quantum and other emerging technologies into the region’s educational landscape. As quantum and related fields evolve rapidly, the call to invest in workforce development and education has never been more pressing. Palm Beach County’s strong tradition of collaboration among the BDB’s Academic Leaders Council, comprised of Presidents from Florida Atlantic University, Palm Beach Atlantic University, Palm Beach State College, Keiser University, Lynn University, Nova Southeastern University, CareerSource Palm Beach County and Superintendent Burke of the School District of Palm Beach County, ensures that the region will continue to lead in developing the talent needed for this next frontier.
“Palm Beach County is uniquely positioned to become a leading force in quantum computing and AI.” said Matt Cimaglia, Founder & Managing Partner, Quantum Coast Capital. “By proactively developing talent and integrating these technologies into our educational systems, the region will secure its legacy as a global center of innovation—ensuring sustained economic growth for decades ahead.”
The discussions continued at a corporate reception at The Ben, where 150 business leaders from a variety of sectors gathered to hear the experts share strategies for integrating quantum innovations into their industries. The event sparked dynamic dialogue about next steps, with follow-up meetings planned to guide the seamless integration of quantum technologies into current business practices.
As the community openly welcomes the rise of emerging industries, the public and private partnerships have been working behind the scenes together to facilitate the growth of innovative companies in technology sectors. Such wins include:
- Percepto, an autonomous drone company located in Riviera Beach
- Misfits Gaming, a global e-sports leader located in Boca Raton
- Bee Access, a company known for producing high-tech products in West Palm Beach
- TMRW Sports, the new TGL Golf League at SoFi Center in Palm Beach Gardens
With nearly 2,000 technology companies, 625 life science firms and home to thousands of “Wall Street South” businesses, Palm Beach County’s commitment to this new era of quantum advancement is not just about staying ahead—it’s about ensuring that the region remains a global hub for groundbreaking innovation and leadership in the rapidly evolving fields of quantum science and technology.
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About the Business Development Board:
The Business Development Board of Palm Beach County (BDB) serves as the county’s official public/private economic development organization. Established in 1982, the BDB is dedicated to attracting and retaining industries, fostering business investments, creating high-quality jobs, and supporting workforce development through corporate relocations, expansions, and international trade initiatives. Over the past five years, the BDB has supported more than 140 companies, contributing to the creation or retention of over 13,110 direct jobs with average salaries exceeding $80,000. These efforts have driven more than $1.12 billion in capital investments into Palm Beach County.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Business Development Board of Palm Beach County:
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