Quantum Benchmarking Initiative Topic (QBIT) Stage A

Background
The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is issuing a Quantum Benchmarking Initiative topic (QBIT) to solicit innovative approaches addressing challenges related to quantum computing.
The initiative aims to construct a utility-scale fault-tolerant quantum computer and develop computational workflows that incorporate quantum compute steps.
The purpose of this QBIT is to encourage new entrants to the Quantum Benchmarking Initiative, ensuring DARPA has visibility into various approaches and potential solutions.
This QBIT is issued under DARPA’s Quantum Benchmarking Initiative (QBI), as described in the QBI 2026 Program Announcement (PA), DARPA-PA-26-02.

Work Details
Proposals must focus on innovative, feasible, and complete technical approaches that align with the program's objectives.
Key tasks include:
1. Developing a high-level work plan with clearly defined deliverables that ensure successful completion of program goals.
2. Identifying major technical risks and outlining feasible mitigation efforts.
3. Submitting a full proposal package that includes written and oral technical components, pricing, and budget spreadsheets.
4. Preparing for an oral presentation consisting of a 60-minute presentation followed by a 120-minute Q&A session.
5. Addressing evaluation criteria such as scientific merit, relevance to DARPA's mission, and budget realism.

Period of Performance
The specific period of performance will be determined based on the proposals selected for negotiation and award.