Chicago Construction News staff writer
Gov. JB Pritzker, IBM Chairman and CEO Arvind Krishna, University of Chicago President Paul Alivisatos, Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park (IQMP) CEO Harley Johnson have announced the launch of the National Quantum Algorithm Center in Illinois.
The site will be powered by IBM’s next-generation Quantum System Two, a quantum computer that aims to drive forward the development of quantum computing and supercomputing.
According to recent reports compiled by Google’s Artificial Intelligence tool, the center’s cost is projected to be part of a larger $20 billion investment in a 150-acre quantum computing campus in Chicago, with the Illinois government heavily supporting the project; however, the exact cost of the center itself is not publicly available.
IBM’s Quantum System Two isn’t just creating jobs but adding fuel to our potential for explosive growth in the quantum space,” Pritzker said at a news conference.
“With a projected $20 billion in economic impact, the quantum industry could transform our economy and open up a world of possibilities for Illinois.”
The new Center, based at the University of Chicago and Discovery Partners Institute, will focus on creating advanced quantum algorithms needed to unlock the full potential of quantum computers.
IQMP is a new 128-acre innovation hub for quantum research, development, and commercialization.
“We are making Illinois the global hub for quantum computing and a center for job growth in this cutting-edge industry,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “The National Quantum Algorithm Center will help solve some of the world’s toughest challenges and bring high-tech jobs and investment to our state.”
The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) is providing a $25 million grant to the IQMP. This funding will help buy the equipment and make the necessary preparations for IBM’s Quantum System Two to be deployed at the park. DCEO Director Kristin Richards said, “This investment will help bring new jobs and attract top researchers and businesses to Illinois, strengthening our position as a leader in quantum computing.”
Illinois is already home to a growing quantum ecosystem, with leading universities, startups, and research institutions. The launch of the National Quantum Algorithm Center builds on this foundation and reinforces the state’s goal of becoming a global leader in quantum technology.
The IQMP is expected to generate up to $20 billion in economic impact and create thousands of high-tech jobs in the coming years and could attract more tech companies and entrepreneurs to Illinois, further boosting the local economy.
One of the key goals is to build a large, skilled workforce capable of advancing quantum technology. By fostering collaboration among universities, researchers, and companies, the Center will help train the next generation of quantum experts, ensuring Illinois is ready to meet the growing demand for talent in this rapidly developing field.
“Illinois is building the future of quantum computing, and today’s announcement marks a big step forward in that journey,” Pritzker said. “Together, we’re creating jobs, driving innovation, and leading the way in solving the world’s toughest challenges.”
