Chicago’s Emerging Quantum Innovation Cluster

Sujai Shivakumar; Charles Wessner; Thomas Howell; Phillip Singerman; Hideki Tomoshige

Report by Sujai Shivakumar, Charles Wessner, Thomas Howell, Phillip Singerman, and Hideki Tomoshige

Published March 16, 2026

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Chicago is rapidly emerging as one of the United States’ most ambitious quantum technology hubs. Anchored by world-class universities, two Department of Energy national laboratories, strong regional economic development organizations, and significant state investment, the region is building a powerful ecosystem to advance quantum science and commercialization. Major initiatives—including the Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park and the Duality quantum startup accelerator—are helping attract global firms, support new ventures, and strengthen collaboration across academia, industry, and government.

As this ecosystem continues to grow, further development will focus on expanding the region’s quantum workforce, strengthening supply chain capabilities, and accelerating the transition of quantum technologies from research to commercial applications. Continued collaboration among universities, industry, government, and regional organizations will play an important role in scaling Chicago’s innovation ecosystem and reinforcing its position as a leading center for quantum technology.

This report is made possible in part by support from the National Institute of Standards and Technology via SRI International.