Quantum Benchmarking Initiative (QBI)

Background
The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is seeking innovative approaches to tackle challenges in quantum computing through the Quantum Benchmarking Initiative (QBI). The program aims to explore methods for constructing a utility-scale fault-tolerant quantum computer and developing computational workflows that incorporate quantum computing steps.

The initiative's primary goal is to determine if any approach can achieve utility-scale operation by 2033, despite DARPA's skepticism about this possibility. If successful, DARPA plans to communicate these results to U.S. Government Agencies interested in utilizing such technology.

Work Details
The QBI focuses on verifying and validating paths to utility-scale quantum computers through three critical stages:

1) Stage A involves describing a plausible concept for a utility-scale quantum computer;

2) Stage B requires outlining a Research and Development Plan that addresses risks and prototypes necessary for realization;

3) Stage C entails collaboration with DARPA to verify and validate the proposed concept. The initiative will provide unbiased third-party verification of organizations' paths toward achieving utility-scale quantum computing, excluding efforts that only reach this goal with significant financial support from QBI. Proposers must define their concept's scale, quality, and configuration while justifying its computational value exceeding costs.

Period of Performance
The contract will be performed over multiple stages leading up to the year 2033, aligning with the goal of achieving utility-scale quantum computing.