Google Opens Willow Early Access Program to Fund Experimental Quantum Research
Google has launched the Willow Early Access Program, offering select researchers exclusive, limited-time access to its Willow quantum processor to run tailored experiments. Applicants must submit anonymized proposals by May 15, 2026 detailing executable quantum circuits and observable outcomes, with winners announced by July 1, 2026. Selected teams must dedicate at least one researcher to execute the work, and proposals are evaluated for feasibility on current Willow hardware and potential scientific impact, signaling Google's move toward commercialization of quantum hardware and testing capabilities beyond simulations.