About the Challenge

2026 EPRI Cyber Quantum Challenge is a multi‑stage effort to accelerate innovation in quantum technologies and cyber security for the electric power industry. Solutions must strengthen the confidentiality, integrity, availability, and resiliency of critical infrastructure—while accounting for real‑world OT constraints.

Open to: researchers, startups, utilities, academics, cyber security experts, and industry innovators worldwide.

Challenge Areas

Proposers shall develop quantum‑enabled and/or quantum‑proof cybersecurity solutions tailored to the unique needs of the electric power industry. Solutions must strengthen confidentiality, integrity, availability, and resiliency of critical energy infrastructure while accounting for the operational, regulatory, and safety constraints inherent to utility environments.

Click here to view the full challenge area descriptions and examples!

Evaluation Criteria

Applications are evaluated based on Relevance, Impact, Innovaiton, Feasibility, Implementation, and Scalability. Click below for more information

View Full Evaluation Criteria

Awards & Incentives - Total Prize Pool: $9,000

• 3 winners will be awarded $3,000 each.
• Honored at Quantum World Congress 2026 (Sept 23-25, College Park, MD)
• Opportunity to contribute to an EPRI white paper
• Opportunity to pitch to EPRI researchers, members, and partners
• Potential advancement to implementation

Timeline 

• Application Open: March 1, 2026
• Submissions Due: June 1, 2026
• Winners Announced: July 31, 2026