The growing number of connected devices makes it necessary to securely transmit and collect information. Unfortunately, communication networks are vulnerable, and cryptographic codes can be broken with the development of algorithms. Quantum technologies offer solutions to such problems by enabling processes that are not feasible using standard methods. Despite the fact that several examples of quantum technologies have passed the verification stage, there are still factors that limit their application potential. The routine development strategy, leading to slow progress, is to keep the basic methods behind quantum technologies intact and focus on the gradual improvement of components. In our view, what quantum technologies need to make rapid progress and achieve the expected high socio-economic impact are qualitative breakthroughs and novel methodologies. Our overarching technological objectives, relevant for both the research agenda presented in this proposal and the ICTQT science mission, are to develop new, unconventional and breakthrough methods for quantum technologies, as well as new applications of quantum methods, aiming at wider and faster commercialisation. Our research will focus on the development of quantum devices and patentable intellectual property, such as quantum random number generators, quantum communication links, improved sensors and metrology, as well as quantum software. We will address the needs of the maritime sector, including offshore wind farms. We will cooperate, among others, with the official partner, IQOQI-Vienna, experimental groups in Warsaw, Stockholm, Munich and Concepción, as well as with industrial partners of our spin-off QCG, SeQure Quantum and AROBS Poland. At the core of our proposal for the Modern Economy Programme is the stabilisation of ICTQT as a pioneering institution in the field of quantum research in Poland and the EU.