ABOUT US
Rooted in the Gallatin Valley’s innovation ecosystem, with global visibility shaped by Montana State University and regional tech leadership, QCORE is building the quantum networking infrastructure that powers the next generation of computing, sensing, and secure communication.
Why QCORE Exists
Mission Statement
QCORE expands access to cutting-edge infrastructure, foster the translation of quantum and adjacent innovations to societal impact, and develop a quantum workforce.
Purpose Statement
QCORE exists to steward the development of transformative quantum technologies in service to the common good.
Vision Statement
Leading Montana’s research, technology development, education, and cross-sector partnerships into a sustainable quantum ecosystem.
The future of quantum technology isn’t just about building perfect quantum computers — it’s about demonstrating their performance and creating the technology to connect and network them. QCORE drives innovation by developing practical benchmarks and scalable solutions, translating the potential of quantum systems into real-world technologies.
From Montana's Innovation Ecosystem to Global Impact
QCORE builds on Montana’s thriving innovation ecosystem, where photonics, materials research, and decades of technical expertise in cryogenics fuel the quantum supply chain—bridging academic insight with real-world impact.
Bridging Research and Impact
What began as a research initiative has evolved into a dynamic quantum networking platform. QCORE connects systems, researchers, industry leaders, and emerging talent to accelerate the development of regional—and broader—quantum capabilities.
A Legacy of Innovation
Montana State University’s long history of investment in photonics and cryogenics has helped create one of the largest photonics clusters in the United States. QCORE extends this strength, building the infrastructure needed to support the next era of quantum systems.
Regional Strength, Global Reach
Montana is uniquely positioned to deliver the photonic interfaces, integrated systems, and supply chain solutions that will accelerate quantum deployment worldwide. From our base in Bozeman, we’re building networks that will connect the world.
Rooted in Academic Excellence
QCORE is a new initiative at Montana State University that offers collaborators world-class facilities, top-tier talent, and a dynamic environment that combines technical rigor with agile innovation to solve real-world quantum challenges.
MSU Core Facilities
Direct access to quantum computing testbed with multiple modalities and advanced fabrication and testing equipment
Student Pathways
Training the next generation of quantum ready technicians and professionals
Faculty Collaboration
Partnership with leading researchers in quantum and quantum adjacent science, technology and innovation
Translational Partnerships
Seamless connection between academic research and commercial application
The People Powering QCORE Collaboration
QCORE brings together experts across disciplines who share a common vision: making quantum technology practical and accessible.
Corporate & Government Partners
Access quantum computing time, test components across modalities, leverage technical expertise, and tap the quantum talent pipeline.
Public Sector & Defense Agencies
Collaborate on dual-use technology with access to quantum resources and specialized expertise.
Building on Proven Foundations, Delivering Results
QCORE builds on decades of regional expertise—from quantum breakthroughs at Montana State University to advanced infrastructure across the Gallatin Valley. This foundation supports a robust platform for quantum networking, emphasizing measurement confidence and product validation.
As global benchmarks evolve, QCORE helps shape the future by providing environments to test, demonstrate, and refine quantum technologies in alignment with international standards bodies like ISO/IEC JTC1, QED-C, and IEEE.
Vibrant Local Ecosystem
Montana Optics and Photonics Companies
This timeline highlights key moments in the evolution of the regional quantum and photonics ecosystem.
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1980 - 1985
Orionics
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1981
Big Sky Laser Technologies / Quantel USA / Lumibird
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1984 - 1995
TMA Technologies
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1986
ILX Lightwave / Newport / MKS
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1989
Scientific Materials / FLIR / Teledyne
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1992
Wavelength Electronics
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1993
Image Labs Int'l
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1993
Quantum Composers
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1995
Altos Photonics
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1995
OPTEC
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1995 - 1999
Scatterworks
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1998
AdvR
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1998
New Wave Research / ESI
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1999
Spectrum Lab
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2000 - 2015
Chronochrome
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2001 - 2018
MPA Technologies
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2002
Resonon
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2002 - 2007
PDI Bozeman
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2003
Sensopath
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2003
Sensory Labs
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2003 - 2008
Rasiris
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2004 - 2012
Zdye
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2005
S2 Corp.
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2005
Phenix Fiber Optics
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2006
Bridger Photonics
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2006 - 2012
Fluorescence Innovations
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2007
Litron Lasers N. Am.
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2007
New Gate Technologies
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2008
NWB Sensors
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2008
Photon Machines / Teledyne
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2009 - 2011
Pinyon Photonics
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2009
Montana Instruments
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2009 - 2020
Yellowstone Scientific Instruments
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2011
MicroLab
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2012
Neuralynx, Inc.
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2013
MT Photonics Industry Alliance / MPQA
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2013
Vision Aerial
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2013
Ascent Vision Technologies / CACI
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2014
Laser Lab Source
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2015 - 2022
Revibro Optics
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2015 - 2017
Advanced Microcavity Sensors
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2016
Agile Focus Designs
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2016
Blackmore Sensors & Analytics / Aurora
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2017
US Optics
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2018
Elemental Scientific Lasers
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2018
Reveal Technology
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2019 - 2020
Nanobrokers
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2020
Silixa
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2020
AgriTech America
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2022 - 2023
532 Engineering
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2022
Volair Technologies / VTI Aerospace
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2022
Maztech Industries
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2023
Headwaters Tech Hub
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2024
Blue Data Technologies
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2024
Vacom
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2024
Gallatin AMO
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2024
Revelyst
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2024
Linq Photonics
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2024
Phix
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2025
Hall Lidar, Inc.
Where Innovation Meets Infrastructure
Quantum Testbed with Multiple Computing Modalities
A flexible environment for testing entanglement distribution, multiple quantum computing modalities including photonic and superconducting systems, and quantum-classical integration—one of only seven worldwide and the first in our region.
Materials & Device Prototyping Lab
Device prototyping, development and fabrication, cryogenic testing, and photonics integration capabilities to support novel technology innovations and network-ready device development.
Cryogenics Facility
Advanced cooling systems that enable quantum operations at the temperatures required for optimal performance.
Hybrid Networking Infrastructure
Systems that connect different quantum computing modalities and enable hybrid quantum-classical applications.
Quantum Simulators
Cloud-enabled simulation environments for modeling hybrid quantum systems and validating performance before deployment.
Building a Network of Collaborators around the world
QCORE drives progress through partnerships across government, academia, industry, and innovation—accelerating quantum discovery, commercialization, and real-world impact.
Government & Defense
- Air Force Research Laboratory
- Members of the National Science Foundation MonArk Quantum Foundry
Academic Institutions
- Collaborations with leading universities and national laboratories worldwide
- Supported by Montana State University faculty, research staff, post-docs, graduate and undergraduate researchers
Industry Leaders
- Strategic relationships with quantum hardware manufacturers, software companies, and system integrators
- Partnerships with global and national leaders driving quantum innovation
Regional & Local Collaborators
- Regional and local partners across industry, academia, and government
- Local innovators and ecosystem builders supporting research and commercialization
From Research to Real-World Results
QCORE’s work extends beyond our facilities to create a lasting impact across industries and communities:
Technology Advancement
Accelerating the development of quantum networks that make quantum computing more accessible and practical
Economic Growth
Attracting quantum companies and investment to Montana while supporting local economic development
Workforce Development
Training the next generation of quantum professionals through internships, fellowships, and educational programs
National Security
Contributing to America's quantum competitiveness through partnerships with defense agencies and national laboratories
The Future We're Building
QCORE is more than a research facility—we’re building the foundation for a quantum-enabled future. Our vision extends beyond today’s limitations to a world where quantum information, computing and networks seamlessly integrate with classical systems, enabling breakthrough applications we’re only beginning to imagine.
The future of quantum technology starts with trusted networks. From Montana’s innovation ecosystem, we’re developing the frameworks, standards and systems needed to connect quantum technologies worldwide. Future Initiatives:
- Advancing quantum networking protocols and standards
- Developing quantum-classical hybrid systems
- Creating industry-specific quantum applications
- Building the quantum workforce of tomorrow
Explore Our Network
Whether you’re a researcher, entrepreneur, student, or industry professional, there’s a place for you in QCORE’s network. We’re building the future of quantum technology, and we need diverse perspectives and expertise to make it happen.
For Industry & Corporate Partners
For Researchers & Academics
For Startups & Entrepreneurs
For Students & Early Career
For Government & Defense
Ready to learn more about QCORE?
Get in touch to explore research partnerships, facility access, or workforce programs.