Several months ago, a physicist friend posed an intriguing question at a coffee shop: "What if AI isn't the future, but quantum AI is?" This sparked the author's curiosity, leading to an exploration of quantum AI, an emerging field that combines the principles of quantum mechanics with artificial intelligence. Quantum computers differ from classical computers by using quantum bits, or qubits, which can represent both 0 and 1 simultaneously, known as superposition. This property, along with quantum entanglement and parallel processing, enables quantum AI to tackle complex problems more efficiently than traditional AI, such as big data analysis, optimization tasks, and drug discovery. Essentially, quantum AI has the potential to perform "out-of-the-box" thinking, pushing the boundaries of current AI capabilities. The development of quantum AI is still in its early stages, but several leading institutions and tech giants are already making significant advancements. In early 2023, IBM announced the successful testing of a 127-qubit quantum computer capable of performing quantum machine learning tasks. Later that year, Google and Microsoft also launched their quantum AI platforms, further driving innovation in the field. These initiatives demonstrate the potential of quantum computation to revolutionize AI algorithms, making them faster and more powerful. Despite the promising outlook, quantum AI faces several challenges, including maintaining qubit stability and reducing error rates. Integrating quantum algorithms with classical computing systems is another significant obstacle. However, companies like Canada's D-Wave Systems have made strides by developing commercial quantum computing platforms, which are providing solutions in specialized industries. D-Wave's efforts highlight the ongoing progress and the potential of quantum AI to transform various sectors. One specific example of this progress is the collaboration between Finnish quantum computing company IQM Quantum Computers and Poland's Wrocław University of Science and Technology (WUST). IQM plans to install Poland's first full-stack superconducting quantum computer, named IQM Spark, at WUST by the second quarter of 2025. This installation marks a significant step forward in Poland's quest to establish a robust quantum ecosystem. WUST, founded in 1945, is a major educational institution with a strong focus on engineering and technology. The university has over 20,000 students and 758 PhD candidates, guided by 2,296 academic staff across 14 faculties and three campuses. With 2,822 patents obtained over the past decade, WUST is a powerhouse of innovation. The new quantum computer will be primarily used for research in computer science, offering hands-on experience to students and researchers alike. The installation of IQM Spark is not just about delivering hardware; it is part of IQM's broader strategy to expand Poland's quantum ecosystem. The company has established an office in Warsaw and is heavily investing in local talent to support its regional growth aspirations. According to Co-CEO Mikko Välimäki, IQM aims to help Poland become a leading center for quantum development in Central and Eastern Europe. WUST's rector, Prof. Tomasz Tarczyński, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership. He stated that this advanced quantum computing device will enhance the university's research capabilities and provide valuable training opportunities for students, potentially turning WUST into a European hub for quantum research. The university plans to celebrate the launch of IQM Spark during the 30th anniversary of its network and supercomputing center. Industry experts believe that this collaboration will significantly boost Poland's standing in the global quantum technology race. It will not only accelerate scientific and industrial progress but also bring transformative changes to education and workforce development. Ville Heiskanen, CEO and founder of IQM, emphasized that the company sees this installation as a crucial step in its expansion strategy, highlighting the potential of quantum AI to push the boundaries of scientific discovery and technological application. IQM, founded in 2018 by a group of Finnish scientists, has rapidly grown into a leading provider of superconducting quantum computers. The company offers both on-site and cloud-based quantum computing solutions and collaborates with high-performance computing centers, research labs, universities, and businesses globally. With offices in multiple countries, including the Czech Republic, Germany, France, and Spain, IQM has successfully deployed its quantum systems in Italy, Japan, South Korea, and now Poland. This strategic move by IQM aligns with the company’s vision to bridge the gap between laboratory research and practical applications in the real world. By providing comprehensive technical support and fostering education through training programs and joint lab projects, IQM is laying the groundwork for sustained growth in the quantum computing sector. In the context of global competition, IQM's presence in Poland is particularly noteworthy. As quantum computing gains attention worldwide, such international collaborations are becoming increasingly valuable. They not only spur technological advancement but also create significant economic and social benefits. For instance, quantum AI could enable more precise financial risk assessments and enhance weather forecasting models. In materials science and cryptography, the potential for breakthroughs is equally promising. The installation of IQM Spark at WUST represents a confluence of cutting-edge technology and academic excellence. It underscores the importance of partnerships between industry leaders and educational institutions in fostering innovation. This project is expected to generate substantial research outcomes and help Poland solidify its position as a pioneering force in quantum technologies. Industry insiders view IQM's expansion into Poland favorably, noting that the company's technical expertise and international presence will catalyze the development of a vibrant quantum ecosystem in Central and Eastern Europe. The combination of WUST's research prowess and IQM's technological advancements positions the region to make meaningful contributions to the global quantum computing landscape. IQM's continued efforts to invest in and support local talent will likely lead to significant advancements and set a precedent for future collaborations in the region. In summary, the deployment of IQM Spark at WUST is a pivotal moment in Poland's quantum journey. It promises to unlock new possibilities in research, education, and industrial applications, positioning the country as a key player in the global quantum technology arena. IQM, a pioneer in superconducting quantum computing, is poised to play a crucial role in this transformation, further enhancing its reputation as a leader in the field.