Together with Banco Santander, IBM, and Bluzec, we have launched the Santander X Global Challenge | The Quantum AI Leap, a global call for startups and scaleups using quantum technologies and advanced AI to solve real‑world problems.
We’re looking for startups and scaleups from Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Germany, Mexico, Portugal, Spain, UK, USA or Uruguay, working on:
- Quantum hardware, sensing and enabling systems (e.g. photonics, gravimeters, NV‑diamond, cryogenics, control electronics, AI‑driven control).
- Quantum software, hybrid and quantum‑inspired platforms (e.g. optimisation, simulation, quantum programming tools, hybrid workflows on cloud or HPC).
- Digital infrastructure secured against quantum computing (e.g. post‑quantum cryptography, quantum‑safe PKI, QKD, QRNG and crypto‑agility platforms).
What does this challenge offer?
An expert jury will select six winning projects, which will receive €120,000 in prizes: €30,000 for the three winning startups (€10,000 each) and €90,000 for the three best scaleups (€30,000 each). They will gain access to Santander X 100, the exclusive global community of the most outstanding Santander X companies, and will be able to connect with Fintech Station, the bank’s Open Innovation area.
They may also be able to further develop their projects with planned support from IBM, gaining access to AI sessions, quantum innovation teams, and the opportunity to pitch IBM Ventures and its community of investors.
Bluzec will provide up to €10,000 in specialised services, including expert support, quantum training delivered by international specialists, and access to a collaboration and investment network.
Applications close on 30th June 2026.
Steve Cleverley, Oxentia Foundation, CEO, noted, “Quantum computing and artificial intelligence are no longer just frontier research fields; they are becoming powerful tools for solving real-world problems. At Oxentia Foundation, we are delighted to be working again with Banco Santander, alongside IBM and Bluzec, on the Santander X Global Challenge | The Quantum AI Leap. We look forward to identifying ambitious startups and scaleups developing breakthrough applications in quantum and AI, and helping accelerate their journey from innovation to impact.”
According to Jaime Gómez, Global Head of the Quantum Threat Program at Banco Santander, “quantum computing is increasingly close to generating a real impact on society and combined with AI, opens up new opportunities to solve complex challenges across multiple sectors. At Santander, we believe in the key role of innovation and entrepreneurship in driving this change, and that is why we promote initiatives such as this global challenge, through which we aim to support solutions that will shape the future of industry and digital security.”
Emily Fontaine, Global Head of Venture Capital at IBM said, “As quantum and AI technologies continue advancing at a rapid pace, this challenge provides an important platform to support the innovators driving that progress. At IBM, we’re deeply committed to building a strong global quantum ecosystem and delivering quantum computing that’s truly useful and scalable for industry. Through IBM Ventures, we’re excited to partner with Santander on this effort and help accelerate the next wave of breakthrough companies shaping the future of quantum and AI.”
Bluzec explains that “the evolution of AI confirms that emerging technologies can become real drivers of transformation in a very short time. Quantum computing represents the next major leap, with the potential to generate capabilities that are not yet fully foreseeable. The integration of both will mark a new stage in technological innovation. At Bluzec, we support startups and large companies throughout this process, connecting technology with market needs and accelerating adoption through growth, investment and strategic collaboration.”
