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Quantum computing is moving beyond theory toward demonstrations of real computational advantage. IBM Quantum® Developer Conference 2026 (QDC 2026) will bring together the builders, researchers, and innovators shaping this historic era.

Applications are now open for the third-annual IBM Quantum Developer Conference, where the quantum community will explore the latest tools and capabilities bringing quantum advantage within reach. This exclusive three-day experience, taking place 11–13 November 2026, will offer attendees an in-depth look at the latest breakthroughs in quantum computing, along with firsthand insights from the IBM experts helping to push those advances forward.

Secure your spot today: Apply to IBM Quantum Developer Conference 2026.

Why should you attend QDC 2026?

Building on the advancements showcased at QDC 2025, this year's QDC experience will give attendees front-row seats to the transition from quantum usefulness to quantum advantage.

As an attendee, you’ll get an insider’s look at the state-of-the-art tools, methods, and systems driving progress toward advantage today. You’ll also be among the first to learn about key updates from the IBM Quantum Roadmap and the latest advantage claims from the community. Throughout, IBM experts will be on hand to offer direct guidance on how to turn these insights into real computational workflows.

Invited attendees will learn about recent advancements in quantum computing through a variety of session formats, including:

• Lectures and demos covering the latest innovations in quantum computing
• Hands-on workshops with coding exercises and prizes
• Community-driven coding challenges
• In-person office hours for technical discussions and support
• Opportunities to connect with IBM experts and the broader quantum community

Across these sessions, attendees will hear directly from IBM experts and leading community contributors exploring key areas such as:

• Hamiltonian simulation and optimization
• New Qiskit tooling and capabilities
• Expanded functions catalog and new benchmarking toolkit
• Quantum-centric supercomputing environment tools and workflows
• Advances in quantum error detection and error correction
• Progress toward fault-tolerant quantum computing

QDC 2026 is an opportunity for developers not just to learn about quantum advantage, but also to gain practical experience with the latest capabilities across the quantum stack. Attendees will walk away knowing how to apply these groundbreaking developments to their own projects and make real-world impacts across domains.

Who can participate?

All members of the quantum community are encouraged to apply to attend QDC 2026, including:

• Quantum developers, engineers, researchers, and computational scientists
• Students and educators actively involved in quantum computing
• Other quantum computing professionals and enthusiasts exploring quantum technologies

Applying does not guarantee acceptance, and our review team prioritizes active Qiskit users with research or development experience in relevant quantum fields.

Apply now

Ready to learn about quantum advantage firsthand? Space is limited, and all prospective attendees must apply for consideration. Be sure to submit your application as early as possible to maximize your chances of securing an invitation.

Apply to IBM Quantum Developer Conference 2026

Applications close on 21 September. Invitations will begin rolling out on 10 August, and final invitations will be sent by 12 October.

Unable to attend in person? Tune in online: recordings of all presentations will be published on IBM Quantum Platform shortly after the event.