White House Plans to Boost AI, Quantum Funding by 30%

(WallStreetJournal) The Trump administration has proposed a spending increase of about 30% in the 2021 nondefense budget for artificial intelligence and quantum information science. The proposal, released Friday, coincides with competitive pressure from China and other countries that are investing in these emerging technologies. Congress must approve the budget proposal.
It also includes $25 million in funding for the Energy Department to build an early-stage quantum internet, which uses the principles of quantum mechanics to more securely transmit data.
AI and quantum information science, an area of study that includes quantum-based cryptography, communication and quantum computing, are critical for economic growth and national security, said Michael Kratsios, U.S. chief technology officer.