EY Canada patents hybrid quantum tool for decisions

EY Canada has secured a patent for a method that applies quantum-informed techniques to scenario-based decision analysis in complex operational settings.

The approach focuses on how organisations generate and evaluate decision alternatives when systems are highly constrained and conditions change quickly. It targets planning and operational decisions in areas such as supply networks, energy systems, infrastructure planning and large-scale operations.

Decision Modelling

Scenario-planning tools often rely on analytics and AI models to produce forecasts and recommendations. In many businesses, these tools can fall short when decision-makers need a broad set of practical alternatives under uncertainty. Constraints across supply, capacity, timing and cost can narrow the range of workable options, making it harder to adjust plans as circumstances shift.

EY Canada describes the patented method as a way to explore feasible options and trade-offs more effectively under uncertainty. The emphasis is on decision intelligence rather than raw computational speed, with the aim of making advanced computing methods more usable in planning processes rather than confining them to research settings.

The invention emerged from internal development work involving Biren Agnihotri, Dr. Sherif Barrad, Ricardo A. Collado and Olumide Akinola. A multidisciplinary group of engineers and computer scientists also contributed.

"This patent reflects how EY innovates-generalising the insight from real client challenges to solve a broader class of complex decision problems," said Biren Agnihotri, Chief Technology Officer, EY Canada.

"By accelerating time to insight with this innovation, organisations can make better decisions across their most constrained and high-impact systems," Agnihotri said.

Hybrid Computing

The patented method uses a hybrid classical-quantum computing paradigm, with classical systems remaining central. It also incorporates quantum operators as part of the computational toolkit.

The hybrid model reflects a broader trend in the quantum sector. Many organisations are testing practical applications that can run on current computing environments while drawing on emerging quantum techniques where appropriate. This can reduce reliance on future large-scale quantum hardware and provide a path for early experimentation in business planning processes that already depend on conventional optimisation and simulation tools.

The approach is intended for domains where decision quality depends on navigating constraints, uncertainty and rapidly evolving conditions. Manufacturing, energy, logistics, infrastructure and operational planning are areas where these factors often interact.

In supply networks, modelling can involve inventory limits, transport capacity, lead times and demand variability. In energy systems, operators must consider network constraints, generation availability, and the trade-offs between cost and resilience. Infrastructure planning can introduce long timelines, regulatory requirements and interdependent project stages. Large-scale operations can combine these factors in settings where disruptions force frequent recalculation of viable plans.

Canadian Focus

EY Canada also framed the patent in the context of domestic innovation and competitiveness, linking the work to broader efforts in analytics, applied AI and quantum computing as businesses modernise operations and risk management.

"We're incredibly proud to innovate solutions that support Canadian businesses in navigating today's complex landscape," said Alycia Calvert, Chair and CEO, EY Canada. "At EY Canada, we're dedicated to fostering innovation that not only strengthens individual organizations but also contributes to a more robust and competitive Canadian economy."

The patent adds to the intellectual property and technical methods professional services firms are developing as they expand technology and advisory offerings. Firms have invested in data platforms, automation, AI model development, and industry-specific tools, and many are exploring quantum computing research partnerships and early-stage applications in which optimisation and scenario evaluation are core tasks.

The method is designed for use in business planning across multiple sectors, with further work expected as quantum techniques mature and organisations test how hybrid approaches perform in real operational settings.