IBM has launched the next-generation version of its Qiskit Advocate Program, positioning it as a global innovation pipeline for quantum professionals and enthusiasts. First introduced in 2019, the program has been revamped under version 2.0 to deepen community engagement and accelerate leadership in quantum computing.

Qiskit Advocate Program 2.0 features a tiered structure designed to guide advocates on a structured career path within the quantum ecosystem. Entry begins at the basic tier—Tier 0—where participants receive access to specialized training sessions, virtual seminars, and community resources. As advocates contribute code, educational content, or event participation, they accumulate points and progress through higher tiers. Advancement unlocks increasing recognition, opportunities for mentorship, access to conference platforms, and even hands‑on quantum computing time.

A distinctive requirement of the new program is certification in Qiskit SDK version 2.x, which now serves as a foundational milestone. Completion of this certification enables advocates to move beyond the entry tier and engage with higher-level responsibilities, including testing new features, providing feedback on educational initiatives, and earning public credentials.

IBM’s refreshed focus extends well beyond recognition. Seasoned advocates at the upper tiers gain exclusive benefits such as dedicated time on IBM’s quantum hardware, early invitations to prototype Qiskit features, and premium access to developer tools and resources. The program aims to nurture a vibrant global network of experts — people who advance quantum software development, drive educational outreach, and lead local community efforts.

To date, the program includes over 540 advocates across more than 50 countries. Many have evolved into leading voices within academic institutions, startups, and corporate research groups. IBM has designed the revamped program to be ongoing; applications are accepted year-round, evaluated on a rolling basis.

In addition to tighter technical criteria, Qiskit Advocate Program 2.0 seeks to encourage cross-disciplinary contributions. Advocates may add value through content creation, public workshops, hackathons, localization translations, or teaching, all of which contribute to ecosystem building. Each form of engagement is assigned weighted points that help determine tier level and eligibility for advancement.

IBM positions the new program as a strategic move to scale quantum awareness and capability globally. By offering clear developmental tracks, education support, and networking opportunities, the initiative aims to cultivate the next cohort of quantum practitioners and thought leaders.

With quantum computing gaining traction in industries from chemistry and logistics to finance and material science, IBM’s upgraded program seeks to ensure a thriving quantum community is ready to meet rising demand. The company hopes these advocates will serve as thought partners, technical evangelists, and early adopters—helping to drive adoption of quantum programming and problem-solving at scale.

In short, Qiskit Advocate Program 2.0 redefines IBM’s approach to building a global quantum workforce. Through structured learning, tiered recognition, and real-world access, the initiative stands to accelerate innovation and deepen community roots in a technology field with transformative potential.