The UK Quantum Technology Hub for Quantum Communications is a synergistic partnership of eight UK Universities (Bristol, Cambridge, Heriot-Watt, Leeds, Royal Holloway, Sheffield, Strathclyde, and York), numerous private sector companies (BT, the National Physical Laboratory, Toshiba Research Europe Ltd, amongst others), and public sector bodies (Bristol City Council and the National Dark Fibre Infrastructure Service), that have come together in a unique collaboration to exploit fundamental laws of quantum physics for the development of secure communications technologies and services.

Led by the University of York, the five-year, £24m QComm Hub aims to deliver quantum encryption systems that will in turn enable secure transactions and transmissions of data across a range of users in real-world applications: from government agencies and industrial set-ups to commercial establishments and the wider public. The project is part of a major national initiative, the UK National Quantum Technologies Programme, which aims to ensure the successful transition of quantum technologies from laboratory to industries.