Startup Story: ResQuant X NATO DIANA Estonian Accelerator 

ResQuant develops quantum-resistant security solutions for IoT devices* – protecting them not only from today’s cyber threats but also those posed by tomorrow’s quantum computers. At the heart of the offering is a silicon-based Root-of-Trust chip that safeguards data and communications at the hardware level. Aligned with the post-quantum cryptographic (PQC) standards defined by NIST and endorsed by the European Union, ResQuant’s technology is designed to comply with upcoming 2030 requirements for critical systems. 

The company’s origins are deeply rooted in national defence and global telecom. Michał Andrzejczak, ResQuant’s CTO and Founder, is a seasoned cybersecurity expert with 14 years of service in Poland’s cyber defence forces. His PhD research at the Polish Military Academy laid the foundation for the company’s technology, although much of his past work remains classified. 

Joining him is Sven Zagala, CEO and Co-Founder, who brings a strong commercial edge. A former executive at Motorola and Harris Stratex, Sven managed operations across 22 Central and Eastern European countries. After successfully running his own company and spending five years as a startup mentor and angel investor, he joined ResQuant in 2023 to drive it from deep-tech vision to market-ready product. 

How was the startup idea born? 

The idea for ResQuant emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic, when Michał began exploring ways to commercialise the findings from his doctoral research. He bootstrapped the initial development between 2020 and 2021. The startup gained traction after receiving its first pre-seed investment in 2021, transitioning from a research project into a viable company. 

What has been your biggest challenge/obstacle/largest win so far? 

The company faced a major hurdle in 2023 when the initial CEO struggled to scale with the startup, pushing ResQuant toward collapse during what is often called the “valley of death” stage. This was overcome when Sven assumed the CEO role, successfully attracting funding and steering the company forward. 

That pivot proved successful. By late 2024, ResQuant had secured a €185,000 contract with the European Space Agency — a major validation of its technology. The momentum continued when the startup was selected for the NATO DIANA accelerator in December 2024, reinforcing its position as a key player in the emerging field of dual-use, quantum-safe security solutions. 

What differentiates your company from the competition? 

What sets ResQuant apart from the competition is its strategic approach to building accessible, trustworthy, and scalable solutions. With a strong dual-use focus, the company designs products that serve both civilian and military applications, addressing critical infrastructure needs across sectors. 

Why did you apply to the NATO DIANA accelerator? 

Given our strategic emphasis on dual-use technology, NATO DIANA represents a perfect alignment with our mission. Participation in the accelerator is a key part of our growth strategy and validation in the defence technology ecosystem. 

Where do you see your company in 12 months? How about in 5 years? 

In 1 year: Our goal is to produce silicon-proven, certified chips embedded with our IP, ready to be deployed in multiple dual-use proof-of-concept scenarios. 

In 5 years: We envision billions of IoT devices incorporating our chips, forming a global standard for quantum-safe security. These devices will not only be protected against quantum threats but will also generate new revenue streams through secure updates and services. 

Who will be the next unicorn in Estonia or in your home country of Poland? 

The future Cybernetica and Resquant PQC Joint Venture, of course! 

The Estonian accelerator is implemented by Tehnopol Startup Incubator together with Sparkup Tartu Science Park.   

* An IoT device is a smart object that connects to the internet and shares data, like a smart watch or home thermostat.