Learn more about the Qiskit advocate program version 2.0 in the new video on the Qiskit YouTube channel.
Get ready for the next evolution of the Qiskit advocate program. The updated initiative brings fresh opportunities for individuals committed to shaping the future of quantum computing, and the Qiskit community wants you to get involved.
First launched in 2019, the Qiskit advocate program is a global, community-centered initiative that recruits quantum computing professionals and enthusiasts from all over the world. Over the years, advocates have gone on to become recognized leaders in the quantum community. However, quantum computing is evolving fast, and community efforts must grow in step. That’s why we’re pleased to announce the introduction of the Qiskit advocate program, version 2.0 — to deliver new resources and pathways for the next generation of quantum community leaders.
Whether you’re advancing quantum research, building quantum software, teaching quantum information science, or simply starting your quantum career, this program will support your journey and amplify your voice across the quantum computing landscape.
What is the Qiskit advocate program?
The Qiskit advocate program is a global community undertaking that recognizes and supports individuals who have contributed actively and meaningfully to the Qiskit ecosystem.
Version 2.0 takes this further, with new resources designed to empower aspiring leaders in the Qiskit open-source community. It aims to support an advocate’s growth within the quantum industry, equipping them with access to mentorship, education, networking with peers and industry professionals, unique opportunities, tailored support, and a clear path for progression and recognition through a strategic, tiered structure.
Watch our new video on the Qiskit YouTube channel to learn more about the updated Qiskit advocate program.
How it works: the advocate journey
In the new Qiskit advocate program, all advocates begin with core onboarding and training at the base level: tier 0. This level gives you access to upskilling enablement through exclusive resources like the Qiskit advocate seminar series and the Qiskit advocate library.
As advocates hone their skills and contribute to the community by delivering talks, contributing to Qiskit, and participating in other qualifying activities, they earn points. Advocates level up to the next tier by crossing a specified points threshold and attaining certification in Qiskit v2.x.
Please note: The Qiskit SDK v2.x developer certification is a hard requirement for progression beyond tier 0 of the advocate program. Click the link above to learn more and keep an eye on the IBM Quantum blog and the IBM Quantum LinkedIn page for more details on the new Qiskit SDK v2.x developer certification coming soon.
There are four advocate tiers in total. Here’s a sneak peek at some of the benefits you’ll get by progressing through each tier. Please note that the benefits listed below are far from exhaustive:
Tier 0 advocates: Gain access to like-minded peers through an exclusive Discord community; become eligible to serve as mentors at IBM Quantum flagship events
Tier 1 advocates: Earn public recognition as official advocates; receive official swag; participate in our celebrated Qiskit Advocate Mentorship Program (QAMP)
Tier 2 advocates: Earn a Credly accomplishment badge for the year; become eligible to beta test new Qiskit features and educational courses
Tier 3 advocates: Gain an additional 30 minutes of IBM QPU access per month
A detailed breakdown of all tier benefits is shared in the welcome packet upon acceptance.
Eligibility criteria and how to apply
To apply to the Qiskit advocate program, you must obtain at least one of the following:
Basics of Quantum Information badge
Fundamentals of Quantum Algorithms badge
Qiskit Global Summer School 2025 Quantum Excellence (Advanced) badge
If you have earned the Qiskit v2.x certification prior to applying to the Qiskit advocate program, you may forgo acquiring any of the three badges listed under the tier 0 requirements. However, you must still earn points and complete the basic Qiskit advocate training to advance from tier 0 to tier 1.
With any one of those qualifications, you may then fill out and submit the Qiskit advocate application form. Do you already have one of the above-mentioned credentials? If so, you’re eligible to apply straight away!
As part of your application, we encourage you to share any previous contributions you’ve made to the Qiskit ecosystem and community, and tell us a bit about what it is that has motivated you to apply.
Applications to the Qiskit advocate program are open year-round and reviewed on a monthly basis.
Who should apply?
If you’re passionate about accelerating the advancement of quantum computing and expanding the Qiskit ecosystem in collaboration with IBM, then the Qiskit advocate program is a great fit for you.
Consider joining this program if any of the following describes you:
Self-starters and students learning quantum computing and exploring a career in the industry.
Researchers using quantum software and hardware to solve problems for specific use cases, or developing quantum algorithms to further quantum computing.
Software developers integrating quantum into their role and their organization.
Educators using hands-on learning tools to teach quantum computing for theoretical or practical applications.
Qiskit advocates have been an integral part of the quantum computing landscape and Qiskit ecosystem since the program’s founding. They make open-source contributions, mentor participants at flagship IBM Quantum events, lead workshops, and host local events. In return, advocates get to collaborate globally with their peers in the Qiskit advocate program and gain early or premium access to select IBM Quantum tools and resources — to name just a few of the program’s benefits.
There are currently over 540 Qiskit advocates active across 50 countries working to inspire, teach, develop, and grow the global quantum workforce. Many have found remarkable success—publishing papers and landing positions at leading institutions and start-ups. Some Qiskit advocates have even gone on to join IBM, proving that passion, skills, and community contributions can lead to career opportunities.
Interested? Now is the perfect time to start preparing for your application! Click here to learn more and apply to become a Qiskit advocate today.