Orca Computing’s Richard Murray: Building Useful Quantum Computers Through Constraints & Commercial Focus

Richard Murray, CEO and co-founder of Orca Computing, recently joined Chris Reichhelm on the “Lab to Market Leadership” podcast to discuss how deep tech startups like Orca are navigating the challenging landscape of quantum computing innovation while focusing on immediate commercial value.

Unlike tech giants with near-unlimited resources pursuing long-term goals of fault-tolerant quantum computers, Orca Computing adopted a pragmatic, market-led approach. Murray described how working within tight financial constraints starting with just £1.5 million drove operational creativity and faster delivery to customers, resulting in quantum systems built with fewer resources that could still integrate into conventional data centers.

The company’s shift from purely technical ambition to an application-driven mission highlights the necessity for startups to deliver tangible business returns along the journey, redefining what “usefulness” means in quantum computing. Key themes explored included the make-versus-buy dilemma, recruiting for adaptability over pure technical brilliance, and the importance of guiding exceptional researchers to embrace commercial realities and customer feedback. Orca's strategy demonstrates how constraints can foster innovation and maintain competitiveness, even against well-funded industry leaders.

Murray also reflected on the evolving culture required to scale deep tech businesses and the ambiguous nature of both customer expectations and the practical applications of quantum computers. Through focusing on specific, measurable value, Orca sets itself apart in the quantum field aiming not just for scientific breakthroughs, but operationally viable quantum products.

Source: Deep Tech Leaders “Lab to Market Leadership” Podcast – Richard Murray, Orca Computing