Jan Goetz, IQM: Building Europe’s quantum future
How do you build a billion-euro company in a field that barely exists yet? In this episode, IQM Quantum Computers co-founder and co-CEO Jan Goetz joins hosts Aki Soudunsaari and Mirka Parenteau to discuss how Europe can claim leadership in quantum technology, and why optimism and clarity matter more than hype. Goetz explains how IQM grew from a university lab into Europe’s first quantum computing unicorn, why deep tech founders must “always be raising,” and how to balance scientific rigor with entrepreneurial speed. He also opens up about leadership: why IQM adopted a co-CEO model and how communication across scientists, investors, and policymakers became his core job. Expect rare insights into deep tech entrepreneurship, scaling from research to revenue, and what it takes to lead a company at the edge of physics and business.
