The German start-up Planqc, a spin-off from the Max Planck Institute for Quantum Optics, has clinched the prestigious German Entrepreneur Award in the StartUp category. The award, presented on September 9, 2025, at the ZDF capital studio in Berlin, recognizes Planqc’s innovative approach to developing a reliable and powerful quantum computer.
Founded in 2022 by quantum physicists Johannes Zeiher, Sebastian Blatt, and Alexander Glätzle, Planqc is part of the Munich Quantum Valley initiative. The company focuses on harnessing neutral atoms as fundamental computing elements, in contrast to the highly cooled designs favored by larger technology firms. This unique approach allows Planqc’s quantum computers to operate at room temperature, which enhances energy efficiency and reduces operational costs.
Breaking New Ground in Quantum Computing
Quantum computers are poised to revolutionize various fields, including material science and pharmaceuticals. They also hold promise for complex calculations, such as air and water flow dynamics around turbine blades and climate modeling. By employing neutral atoms trapped in optical lattices formed by intersecting laser beams, Planqc aims to simplify the integration of numerous qubits into a functional quantum processor.
Following their success at the award ceremony, Alexander Glätzle, CEO and co-founder of Planqc, expressed his enthusiasm: “The award is a tremendous endorsement for us. It shows that our technology is convincing not only scientifically, but also entrepreneurially.” He emphasized the company’s commitment to partnering with industry leaders to advance quantum computing applications in Europe.
CTO Sebastian Blatt echoed Glätzle’s sentiments, stating, “This success is a credit to the entire team. We want to prove that it is possible to turn cutting-edge research into successful companies in Germany.” He noted that the recognition from the Entrepreneur Award provides momentum for expanding their technology on an international scale, opening new avenues for both industry and society.
Supporting Deep Tech Innovations
Planqc operates from its headquarters in Garching, a former hardware store, where the founders and their team engage in pioneering research. Their goal is to construct and miniaturize the first freely programmable quantum computers by 2027, in collaboration with the German Aerospace Center and the Leibniz Supercomputing Centre.
Max Planck President Patrick Cramer highlighted the importance of investments in deep tech, such as quantum computing, to ensure Europe’s competitiveness in future technologies. He noted, “What makes me particularly happy is that Munich Quantum Valley is only four years old – and already the first start-up, Planqc, has been nominated for the Entrepreneur Award.” This early success underscores the potential of collaborative initiatives in the region.
The German Entrepreneur Award is recognized as one of the most prestigious business accolades in Germany, established through partnerships among ZDF, Porsche, Sparkasse, and FAZ, with support from the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy. Planqc’s achievement not only marks a significant milestone for the company but also reinforces Germany’s growing role in the global quantum computing landscape.
