I’m thrilled to sit down with Donald Gainsborough, a political savant and visionary leader at the helm of Government Curated, who has been instrumental in shaping innovative policy and legislation around emerging technologies. Today, we’re diving into Fairfax County, Virginia’s pioneering role in quantum technology, a field Donald has championed through strategic regional partnerships and events like the Quantum World Congress. Our conversation explores how this county has positioned itself as a hub for quantum innovation, the unique opportunities and challenges in this cutting-edge space, the power of collaboration across jurisdictions, and the critical role of talent and education in driving progress. Let’s uncover the story behind Fairfax County’s quantum journey and what it means for the future of technology and economic development.
How did Fairfax County first identify quantum technology as a key area of focus for growth?
Fairfax County’s journey into quantum technology began about six years ago through a partnership with a regional nonprofit focused on identifying growth industries without fostering competition between neighboring states. They approached us with the concept of “blue ocean” opportunities—untapped fields with vast potential—and quantum emerged as a prime candidate alongside areas like hydrogen energy and bioinformatics. The idea was to avoid the zero-sum game of relocating businesses and instead build something new. We saw quantum as a chance to create a unique niche, leveraging the region’s strengths in research and innovation to put Fairfax County on the map in a transformative field.
What role did the initial collaboration with regional organizations play in launching this initiative?
Collaboration was critical from the start. A regional nonprofit brought us together with stakeholders across the Greater Washington area, helping us avoid siloed efforts. They facilitated discussions on hosting a major event to showcase quantum advancements, and we jumped at the chance to co-found what became the Quantum World Congress. Our early financial support and commitment to bringing people physically to our market helped build momentum. This collaborative spirit ensured we weren’t just promoting Fairfax County but elevating the entire region as a cohesive quantum hub, drawing in universities, entrepreneurs, and community partners.
Why do you consider quantum technology a ‘blue ocean’ opportunity compared to other industries?
Quantum technology stands out because it’s still in its infancy, with relatively few players globally, which means less competition and more room to innovate. Unlike mature sectors where regions are constantly battling for dominance, quantum offers a fresh landscape where we can define leadership. It’s not just about computing; it spans communications, sensing, materials, and even space applications. This breadth creates endless possibilities for breakthroughs—think transparent steel or revolutionized cybersecurity. For Fairfax County, it’s a chance to build something groundbreaking without the crowded, cutthroat dynamics of other tech fields.
How does Fairfax County’s location and resources give it a competitive edge in this emerging field?
Our location in the Greater Washington region is a goldmine. We’re surrounded by top-tier research institutions like the University of Maryland, which has already produced pioneering quantum companies, and George Mason University, where exciting work is underway. Proximity to major players like Amazon, Google, and IBM, who are investing heavily in quantum, adds to our appeal. Plus, we’ve got a deep pool of corporate headquarters and a dynamic business environment where startups can scale fast. Combine that with our access to federal resources and a highly educated workforce, and Fairfax County becomes a natural incubator for quantum innovation.
Can you describe the impact of the Quantum World Congress on Fairfax County and the surrounding region?
The Quantum World Congress has been a game-changer. Starting with just 500 attendees and 15 countries at our first event, we’ve grown to expecting 1,500 participants from 30 countries this year. It’s put Fairfax County on the global stage, attracting attention from investors, companies, and academics alike. Beyond numbers, it’s fostered real connections—think dignitary dinners at embassies forging international alliances or a six-group partnership that emerged from these gatherings. The congress has also spotlighted our region’s assets, showing the world what we’re capable of and sparking tangible opportunities for collaboration and growth.
Why is cross-jurisdictional collaboration so vital for advancing quantum technology?
Quantum technology is too complex and resource-intensive for any single jurisdiction to tackle alone. The talent pool is small—there are only a handful of experts worldwide—and the research demands massive investment and diverse perspectives. Working across county and state lines lets us pool resources, share knowledge, and complement each other’s strengths. For instance, while Fairfax County excels in corporate presence, neighboring areas might offer superior computational infrastructure. By uniting under the Greater Washington umbrella, we amplify our collective impact, breaking down barriers and building trust to accelerate progress in a field that’s still years from full realization.
How are local universities and talent development initiatives contributing to Fairfax County’s quantum ambitions?
Universities are the backbone of our quantum efforts. The University of Maryland is a powerhouse, driving research and commercialization, while George Mason University and Virginia Tech are ramping up innovative projects. These institutions not only produce cutting-edge work but also train the next generation of quantum experts. We’ve also engaged the community by including high school students in research competitions at the Quantum World Congress, exposing young minds to this field early on. Nurturing talent at all levels—through academic partnerships and initiatives to attract and retain skilled professionals—ensures we sustain momentum and remain competitive in this specialized arena.
What excites you most about the broader applications of quantum technology beyond computing?
Beyond computing, quantum’s potential is mind-blowing. I’m particularly fascinated by its applications in communications, where we could see data transfers at unprecedented speeds through entanglement. Sensing is another area—think quantum sensors in space detecting phenomena we can’t currently measure. Then there’s materials science; researchers are exploring concepts like aligning molecules for transparent steel, which could revolutionize construction or manufacturing. Even everyday items like clothing could be transformed by quantum-derived materials. These possibilities aren’t just incremental—they’re paradigm shifts that could redefine entire industries.
What is your forecast for the future of quantum technology in Fairfax County and beyond?
I’m incredibly optimistic about quantum’s trajectory in Fairfax County and the Greater Washington region. Over the next five to ten years, I expect us to solidify our position as a global leader, especially as the Quantum World Congress continues to grow and attract more international focus. We’re also branching into related fields like space, with a new conference in the works to explore quantum’s role in space sensing and communication. Nationally and globally, I foresee tighter alliances between regions and countries as the quantum community remains small but highly collaborative. The real breakthroughs will come from this teamwork, turning today’s research into tomorrow’s reality—whether that’s unhackable encryption or materials we can’t yet imagine. Fairfax County will be at the heart of that transformation.
