IonQ Announces Acquisition of AI-Software and Technology R&D Specialist Seed Innovations
January 28, 2026 — IonQ, Inc. (NYSE: IONQ), a global leader in quantum computing platforms, has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Seed Innovations, a Colorado-based software and technology research and development (R&D) firm. This strategic acquisition is set to close on January 30, 2026, and aims to bolster IonQ’s software, artificial intelligence (AI), and quantum infrastructure capabilities.
Expanding Quantum Infrastructure with AI Expertise
Seed Innovations specializes in delivering advanced technology solutions and process improvements tailored to complex challenges in both government and commercial sectors. Its expertise spans machine learning (ML), sophisticated software architecture, DevOps, and cloud migration—all crucial elements for scaling and managing intricate quantum workloads.
Following the acquisition, the Seed Innovations team will integrate into IonQ’s Quantum Infrastructure division. Founder Marlu Oswald will report directly to Frank Backes, President of IonQ Quantum Infrastructure. Their combined efforts will accelerate the development of enterprise-grade, AI-driven software layers essential for enhancing the performance and scalability of IonQ’s quantum computing platforms.
Frank Backes emphasized the significance of this acquisition:
“This acquisition expands IonQ’s software capabilities as we build the world’s only enterprise-grade, full-stack quantum platform. Seed Innovations’ expertise in machine learning and automated scaling architecture will be instrumental in optimizing performance across our quantum applications.”
Key Areas of Impact
Seed Innovations will focus on several critical areas to advance IonQ’s technological edge:
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AI-Optimized Quantum Performance: Leveraging deep machine learning and advanced algorithms to analyze system data, predict quantum system behaviors, and drive continuous performance improvements.
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Enterprise-Scale Automation: Deploying proven DevOps practices and automated scaling architectures to support IonQ’s ambitious growth and operational needs across complex quantum environments.
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Seamless Cloud Integration: Utilizing Seed Innovations’ extensive experience in cloud migration and microservices architectures to enhance the accessibility and availability of IonQ’s quantum services across all major cloud providers.
Strengthening a Comprehensive Quantum Ecosystem
This acquisition aligns with IonQ’s broader strategy to develop a comprehensive, full-stack quantum platform that integrates quantum computing hardware with networking, sensing, and security technologies. By incorporating AI-driven software innovations, IonQ seeks to address emerging requirements from government and commercial clients for robust, scalable quantum solutions.
Seed Innovations has a strong track record, having supported full-lifecycle software development, legacy system modernization, and R&D initiatives dating back to its founding in 2013. Its clientele includes the Department of War (DoW), various intelligence agencies, and commercial enterprises.
The addition of Seed Innovations complements IonQ’s expanding portfolio of strategic quantum technology acquisitions, which recently included companies such as Skyloom, Vector Atomic, Capella Space, Oxford Ionics, ID Quantique, Lightsynq, Qubitekk, and the semiconductor manufacturer SkyWater Technology.
About IonQ
IonQ is recognized as a pioneer in quantum technology, offering leading quantum computing platforms designed for real-world applications. Through continuous innovation and strategic acquisitions, IonQ is committed to advancing quantum computing’s practical deployment for government, enterprise, and commercial markets.
For more information, contact:
Matt Swayne
Science Communicator, The Quantum Insider
matt@thequantuminsider.com
Source: IonQ Press Release, The Quantum Insider News, January 28, 2026
