Qilimanjaro Quantum Tech has a long history in the Industrial Doctorate Plan, having developed eight strategic, collaborative and applied research projects since 2020. From the DI Plan we have disseminated its successes, but this is a special occasion: it has been the winner of the award for best startup at the 4YFN Awards , the highest recognition that an emerging company obtains at the Mobile World Congress (MWC). The company's own profile on X has defined the dimension of this recognition with a tweet : " we can officially say that we are the best digital startup on the planet and for the planet ."
Qilimanjaro, linked as a spin-off to the University of Barcelona (UB), the Barcelona Supercomputing Center (BSC) and the Institute of High Energy Physics (IFAE), stands out as one of the leading companies in quantum computing in Europe . Its solid track record in applied research projects in this field demonstrates its firm commitment to leading the construction of the first commercial quantum computer . After this award, which represents an important recognition of its track record and technological proposal, it will see its position as a leader in the field of quantum computing consolidated. In addition, it will allow it to obtain greater visibility and access new funding and collaboration opportunities.
In an interview with Marta Pasqual, senior quantum engineer in the company's theory team in Barcelona, she explained Qilimanjaro's work in creating quantum algorithms and hardware to facilitate access to quantum computing in industries and research centers , using an analog computing model different from existing quantum solutions. Its main goal is to democratize access to quantum computing , opening the doors to a new era of technological innovation accessible to all. Its transformative vision seeks to make this technology a tool at the service of progress and the resolution of real problems in various sectors.
The 4YFN Awards ceremony was held on Wednesday, February 28 at the Banc Sabadell Stage at Mobile World Congress (MWC). This competition, designed to discover the best digital startups on a global scale, aims to offer definitive recognition to startups during MWC Barcelona 2024. An award that ensures international exposure for the selected startups.
During the 4YFN Awards ceremony, the finalist startups competing with Qilimanjaro were Bitsensing (South Korea), Mica AI Medical (Israel), Ocean Econstructures (Spain) and Whispp (The Netherlands). All had the opportunity to present their projects to a diverse audience of industry professionals and interested parties. Qilimajaro, as the winner, was awarded 20,000 euros by GSMA Foundry, in addition to other benefits such as a chance to speak on the main stage of 4YFN Barcelona 2025 and a free exhibition stand for the startup for four days at 4YFN MWC Barcelona 2025.
The selection process for these awards includes a preliminary remote assessment of the applications, the publication of a list of the “Top 50 Startups”, and the selection of five finalists who are invited to present their projects on stage during the 4YFN Awards final. In addition, the awards event is held during MWC Barcelona, offering a significant platform for startups to connect with industry leaders and investors.
Qilimanjaro Quantum Tech’s recognition at the 4YFN Awards 2024 marks a pivotal moment for the company, and also for the quantum computing sector. This award not only reaffirms the leadership and innovation capacity of this Barcelona-based start-up, but also highlights its ability to address global challenges through quantum technology. With this momentum, Qilimanjaro is well positioned to continue advancing its mission to democratize access to quantum computing, opening new avenues for research and development in various industries.
