Record participation and technological momentum: A successful World of Quantum 2025

Record number of exhibitors, more than 22,000 visitors from 41 countries and in-depth discussions: Held from June 24 to 27, 2025, at the exhibition grounds in Munich, World of Quantum has firmly established itself as the leading trade fair platform for quantum technologies. 160 companies, startups and research institutions showcased their latest innovations in the field of quantum computing, communication and sensor technology. The event marked growth of more than 85 percent compared to 2023 (86 exhibitors). With two forums, more than 70 expert presentations and the third hackathon with many international participants, the event also offered a comprehensive and practical supporting program.

“The numbers speak for themselves: with 160 exhibitors, a high visitor turnout and overwhelmingly positive feedback from all sectors, the third edition of World of Quantum has clearly reached a new level. The discussions with our exhibitors so far have been exceedingly positive—everyone we spoke to expressed a strong interest in returning for the next event. That kind of feedback speaks volumes,” explains Dr. Reinhard Pfeiffer, CEO of Messe München. “This year’s World of Quantum clearly demonstrates that quantum technology is no longer just a future topic—it is steadily becoming part of industrial reality.”

Increasing political and social relevance

World of Quantum 2025 kicked off with a working dinner the evening before the trade fair, bringing together representatives from politics, science, and industry including Federal Research Minister Dorothee Bär. She emphasized the increasing importance of quantum technologies: “Quantum technologies impact almost every aspect of social and economic life, and that influence is growing steadily. Through its initiatives, the Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space (BMFTR) is actively shaping the future of Germany and Europe.”

Against this backdrop, Bavaria’s Minister of Economic Affairs Hubert Aiwanger also underlined how important the industry is. During his visit to the trade fair, he learned about innovations from startups and research institutions from Munich Quantum Valley as well as from international exhibitors—thus confirming the strategic importance of the industry for Bavaria as a business location.

Anke Odouli, Exhibition Director of the World of Quantum, also highlighted the event’s growing importance and offered a positive assessment: “The strong interest in World of Quantum 2025 confirms that our concept as an international platform for quantum technology is on the right track. I’m particularly pleased with the high level of participation from user industries such as logistics, pharmaceuticals, medical technology and the financial sector. These industries are essential for the future development of quantum applications.”

Platform for technological progress and market maturity

Quantum technologies are getting closer to being ready for the market—and investments are growing worldwide. World of Quantum 2025 responds directly to this momentum, focusing on quantum computing, communication, simulation and cryptography, as well as quantum sensing, metrology and imaging. For exhibitors, the trade fair is an ideal opportunity to exchange ideas with key stakeholders. As Franz Domig, Marketing Director at AQT, says, “We participate in numerous trade fairs worldwide, but World of Quantum stands out. It provides us with a rare opportunity to connect with a large number of highly relevant stakeholders—many of whom are otherwise difficult to reach.”

And Sascha Mehlhase, Head of Media Relations & Public at Munich Quantum Valley, adds: “The World of Quantum fair is highly relevant to the Munich Quantum Valley, providing a unique platform to showcase cutting-edge quantum research and technologies, foster innovation and drive collaboration between industry leaders, researchers and startups. By uniting experts from academia, industry, and government, the fair accelerates the development and implementation of quantum technologies.”

Practical applications and strong partners

Quantum technologies already have real-world applications in areas such as data encryption, simulation and environmental monitoring. World of Quantum 2025 made it clear that market-ready systems are no longer just a vision of the future. The Quantum Future Forum, organized by event partner BMFTR, played a key role in fostering knowledge transfer and supporting emerging talent in the field. Additional support came from leading institutions and associations, such as Munich Quantum Valley, QUTAC and the conceptual sponsor VDMA Quantum Technologies and Photonics Forum which promote the transfer of research results into industrial applications.

Central platform for research, industry and startups

With growing international participation, an increase in the number of exhibitors, and a rich supporting program, the World of Quantum has established itself as an indispensable industry event. “World of Quantum brings together leading international minds from science, industry and politics in Munich. Whether at the exhibition booths, in the forums, or through one-on-one conversations, it was evident that Europe is making strong progress toward achieving technological sovereignty in quantum computing,” said Prof. Dieter Kranzlmüller, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Leibniz Supercomputing Centre. For Dr. Alexander Glätzl, CEO of planqc, one thing is certain: “World of Quantum is the most important industry event for planqc. It enables us to deepen our exchange with suppliers, research partners, emerging talent, customers and the wider quantum community. We’re thrilled with the positive energy, the expanding ecosystem and the technological advancements showcased here.”

The next World of Quantum will take place from June 22 to 25, 2027, in Munich, together with Laser World of Photonics and automatica.