EpoQ, a quantum technology venture led by researchers based at the University of Amsterdam, has won Photondelta’s 2026 Global Photonics Engineering Contest. The team is developing a photonic chip-based trapped-ion atomic clock to bring laboratory-grade timing into satellites, defense systems and scientific instruments. Integrated photonics should reduce the size, weight, complexity and power consumption of systems that currently require bulky laboratory equipment.
The technology targets applications where precise timing must remain available independently of satellite signals. Navigation and communications systems can be vulnerable to GPS jamming or spoofing, creating demand for compact, highly accurate onboard clocks. EpoQ, which hasn’t yet been incorporated, also sees opportunities in telecommunications and critical infrastructure.
The prize includes up to 100,000 euros in technology services from companies in Photondelta’s ecosystem. EpoQ will also have the opportunity to secure up to 2 million euros in pre-seed funding, subject to Photondelta’s investment process and conditions.
The contest attracted submissions from eighteen countries, with entries increasing approximately 18 percent from its first edition. Last year’s winner, MIT spin-off Perceptra, is developing a compact photonic Raman analyzer for molecular monitoring. It has since secured funding from Photondelta and is establishing integrated photonics R&D operations in the Netherlands.
