Why It Matters
PSIQuantum Corp. faces a critical window as Congress actively legislates quantum computing policy. The company is targeting the Department of Energy Quantum Leadership Act of 2025, defense appropriations, and broader quantum research initiatives to secure federal support for its photonics-based approach. By retaining Cornerstone Government Affairs Inc.—a firm with deep expertise in Budget/Appropriations and relationships with major defense contractors—PSIQuantum is positioning itself to compete aggressively for government resources as Congress mobilizes around quantum technology as a national security priority.
By the Numbers
PSIQuantum Corp. spent $60,000 on lobbying in the last quarter through Cornerstone, part of a diversified strategy that has evolved since the company began federal advocacy in 2019.
PSIQuantum maintains multiple lobbying relationships: an in-house operation (since 2024), Cornerstone (since 2023), and Icebreaker Strategies LLC (since 2025). Cornerstone represents the largest external commitment, with $600,000 in reported fees to date.
The company previously retained K&L Gates LLP (2019-2021), Covington & Burling LLP (2020-2023), and Revere Federal Strategies LLC (2022-2025, now terminated).
The Agenda
PSIQuantum lobbies on federal funding and policy for quantum computing development, consistently focusing on support through the Department of Energy, Defense appropriations, and National Defense Authorization Acts. The company’s Q4 2025 filing reflects continued efforts to influence quantum-focused legislation moving through Congress.
Key bills include the Defense Quantum Acceleration Act of 2025, the Quantum National Security Coordination and Competition Act, and the Quantum Sandbox for Near-Term Applications Act—all aimed at expanding federal support and creating public-private partnerships for quantum commercialization. PSIQuantum’s CEO testified before Congress in May 2025, providing direct advocacy for reauthorizing the National Quantum Initiative.
Broader Context
Congress is actively mobilizing federal support for quantum computing as a national security priority. The House Science Committee heard testimony in May 2025 on the National Quantum Initiative’s effectiveness, with PSIQuantum’s leadership providing direct input on funding needs.
This legislative momentum coincides with expanded government procurement. DARPA’s quantum benchmarking initiative and the Department of Energy’s renewed funding for quantum research centers are creating sustained demand for quantum hardware development. Leaders like Senator Todd Young and Representatives Jay Obernolte and Haley Stevens are championing quantum interests through multiple legislative vehicles.
Between The Lines
In May 2025, PSIQuantum’s Pete Shadbolt testified at a House Science Committee hearing titled "From Policy to Progress: How the National Quantum Initiative Shapes U.S. Quantum Technology Leadership," assessing the program ahead of potential reauthorization—a central legislative goal for the company’s advocacy.
Additional congressional activity includes House Oversight examining "Preparing for the Quantum Age: When Cryptography Breaks" in June and House Homeland Security’s December hearing on "The Quantum, AI, and Cloud Landscape."
Key lawmakers are vocally supporting quantum initiatives. Senator Todd Young is championing the DOE Quantum Leadership Act, while Representatives Jay Obernolte and Haley Stevens are leading efforts on near-term quantum applications.
Competitive Landscape
PSIQuantum faces intensifying competition in the quantum lobbying space. Quantinuum LLC spent $60,000 in the third quarter of 2025 on Energy & Water Appropriations and National Quantum Initiative reauthorization—identical priorities to PSIQuantum. More aggressively, D-Wave Government Inc. has launched a multi-firm campaign, engaging Franklin Square Group, 535 Group, and Dogwood Strategies.
The competitive intensity reflects broader industry dynamics: quantum companies are competing for finite federal appropriations, DARPA funding, and influence over emerging post-quantum cybersecurity standards. This landscape underscores why PSIQuantum maintains relationships with multiple lobbying firms and sustains significant expenditures with Cornerstone.
The Bottom Line
PSIQuantum’s $60,000 final quarter payment to Cornerstone reflects a broader strategy to influence federal quantum research investments as Congress advances multiple quantum bills. The company competes with firms like Quantinuum and D-Wave for congressional attention and federal resources, making sustained lobbying investment a competitive necessity.
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