Last week, I joined 1,300 participants at the 2026 Quantum.Tech World in Boston. The event drew a wide-ranging audience, including scientists, government officials, investors, journalists, and even an NFL player. 

I’ve spent most of my PR career involved in emerging tech, most recently in the AI world, but this was my first quantum show. And here’s what I found interesting. 

The healthcare sector made a strong showing, with the Cleveland Clinic and various pharmaceutical companies in the room. Meanwhile, the exhibition hall buzzed with innovation, showcasing the full spectrum of quantum technology, from computing of all modalities to sensing and communications as well as hardware and software.  

In contrast to the typical hype I have experienced at most tech events, where I have many years of experience, Quantum.Tech World featured a refreshing shift in tone. Rather than just pitching their latest products, quantum entrepreneurs were deeply engaged in scientific discourse. Though I realize the quantum industry has been accused of hype, as far as I could see, this show demonstrated a solid commitment to scientific validation.  

On the educational side, there were sessions on every aspect of the industry, and then some. I attended sessions on quantum sensing, on state and federal support for the quantum industry, and one featuring an 18-year-old VC. Other sessions and keynotes featured top influencers like Peter Shor and government officials such as Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey.  

Of course, it wouldn’t be a trade show without “classy” giveaways. I came home with one green rubber duck, socks emblazoned with “I ❤️ Science” and a comic book / graphic novel explaining quantum computing.  

Overall, the conference highlighted the strength and breadth of the quantum industry. The talk on the exhibition floor centered on practical applications and timeframes. Clearly, practice is catching up with theory.  

Looking forward to many more quantum shows to come!