Challenge Eleven, a quantum computing analysis group, has introduced the launch of the Q-Day Prize, a worldwide problem providing 1 BTC to the primary workforce in a position to break an elliptic curve cryptographic (ECC) key utilizing Shor’s algorithm on a quantum pc. The primary workforce to efficiently obtain this breakthrough earlier than April 5, 2026, might be awarded 1 BTC.
The problem straight targets the Elliptic Curve Digital Signature Algorithm (ECDSA), which underpins bitcoin’s safety mannequin. Whereas theoretical discussions about quantum threats have continued for years, Challenge Eleven seeks to show hypothesis into measurable danger by encouraging sensible demonstrations of cryptographic vulnerability.
Based on the initiative, greater than 6.2 million BTC, value practically $500 billion, are at present held in wallets with uncovered public keys and could possibly be in danger if quantum capabilities advance additional.
“We have now no clear concept how shut we’re to a quantum ‘doomsday’ state of affairs for current cryptography,” mentioned Alex Pruden, CEO and co-founder of Challenge Eleven. “The Q-Day Prize is designed to take a theoretical menace from a quantum pc, and switch that right into a concrete mannequin.”
Current developments within the quantum computing house have added urgency to the initiative. Google’s ‘Willow’ chip not too long ago solved a posh computation in 5 minutes that may take supercomputers 10 septillion years, demonstrating progress in error correction. Amazon’s ‘Ocelot’ and Microsoft’s ‘Majorana 1’ chips have additionally made important strides, whereas PsiQuantum raised $750 million in Q1 2025, citing developments in photonic chip design and optimization of Shor’s algorithm.
Entry to quantum computing can be increasing by way of cloud-based providers from suppliers akin to IBM, AWS, Google, and Alibaba, making the expertise extra accessible to researchers and builders.
The Q-Day Prize continues a convention of cryptographic benchmarking challenges, just like the RSA Factoring Problem in 1991 and Hal Finney’s 1995 SSL cipher problem, each of which performed key roles in measuring cryptographic resilience.
“That is an open name to the boldest minds in quantum,” Pruden added. “Show what’s attainable, and assist us safe the way forward for digital property.”
Registration and extra particulars can be found at QDayPrize.org.