Future Program Announcement & Proposers Day: Heterogeneous Architectures for Quantum (HARQ)

Background
The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is seeking innovative proposals for the Heterogeneous Architectures for Quantum (HARQ) program. The goal of this initiative is to explore groundbreaking advancements in quantum computing, focusing on areas such as quantum interconnects, circuit compilers, distributed algorithms, and other critical components that bridge quantum hardware and software.

The agency emphasizes that proposals should not merely enhance existing technologies but aim for revolutionary breakthroughs.

Work Details
Proposed research should investigate innovative approaches that enable significant advancements in the following areas:
- Quantum interconnects
- Quantum circuit compilers
- Distributed algorithms
- Resource estimation
- Quantum memory/repeater devices
- Quantum frequency converters
- Microwave-to-optical transducers

The research must focus on new theories, devices, and system concepts rather than evolutionary improvements to current practices. DARPA encourages collaboration among industry, academia, and government entities to achieve these objectives.

Period of Performance
The contract will be performed over a period following the release of the solicitation, which is anticipated before the Proposers Day on August 20, 2025.

Place of Performance
The work will be conducted virtually and may involve collaboration across various geographic locations as determined by the participating organizations.