Unitary

🪙 Quick Facts

• Type: Non-dilutive microgrant ($4,000)
• Eligibility: Open to all ages, global applications welcome
• Process: Rolling applications, 2-minute application, monthly review cycle
• Contact: partners@unitary.foundation

👀 Mission

Unitary Foundation is a non-profit dedicated to building an open quantum technology ecosystem that benefits the most people. The organization supports open source development, education, and research in quantum computing, focusing on accessibility, transparency, and broad impact.

💰 What Unitary Foundation Funds

• Open source quantum software and tools
• Educational materials and workshops
• Quantum sensor prototypes and hardware experiments
• Community building and global collaboration initiatives

📝 Application Guide

• Short form: Basic project description
• Two-minute video: Explain your project and motivation
• No lengthy proposals: Simplicity is encouraged
• Monthly review: Decisions made by an advisory board of quantum experts

Application Process

• Submit: Short form and video via website
• Review: Monthly by advisory board
• Decision: Notification within about a month; constructive feedback provided
• Payment: $4,000 cash grant, no strings attached

Tips from Grant Recipients

• Be clear and concise: Focus on what you want to achieve and why it matters.
• Emphasize openness: Projects that benefit the wider community are prioritized.
• Don't be discouraged: Many recipients apply multiple times, incorporating feedback.

📜 Example Recipients

• Simulator package for surface codes
• Q# library for quantum RAM
• Optimizing quantum circuit compiler based on ZX calculus
• Recent grant: Andi Gu and Pablo Bonilla for "Fast Neural Decoders for Universal Logical Quantum Algorithms"

🗣️ Interview Preparation

• No formal interview: Just a short application and video
• Recommended research: Familiarize yourself with open source quantum projects and the foundation's mission

Additional Resources

• Unitary Labs: In-house research team working on public goods in quantum tech
• Mitiq: Main cross-platform open source error-mitigating compiler
• Metriq: Open source platform for quantum tech benchmarks
• UnitaryHack: Community bounty programs and developer survey

📯 Post-Award Information

• Payment: $4,000 cash grant, typically within a month of notification
• Flexible spending: No strings attached, trust-based model
• Community engagement: Recipients are encouraged to share results and collaborate with the broader quantum community
• Opportunities: Access to additional funding, hardware, and professional networks