On July 24 at the Global Quantum Forum in Chicago, IBM and the University of Chicago announced their intent to offer Duality startups resources and support to develop quantum software and explore algorithms and applications that could help unlock the potential of quantum computers. This includes access to the IBM Quantum System Two planned to be deployed at the Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park. Selected startups will be provided with funding from IBM, as well as access to IBM’s quantum computers over the cloud and technical expertise.
Duality is the nation’s first quantum startup accelerator led by multiple research and industry leaders, including the Polsky Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation at the University of Chicago and the Chicago Quantum Exchange, along with founding partners the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Argonne National Laboratory and P33. This plan expands IBM’s support of UChicago’s goal of identifying and co-developing a pipeline of quantum computing startups while cementing the Midwest’s leadership in quantum innovation.
“The University of Chicago is proud to play a leading role in building the quantum economy—advancing breakthrough science, supporting startups and shaping technologies that will power everything from the highest-resolution sensors to next-generation computing. Partnering with IBM reflects the kind of cross-sector collaboration that makes Chicago’s quantum ecosystem so strong. Together, we’re not just accelerating innovation—we’re helping secure the nation’s technological future,” said Nadya Mason, Interim Vice President for Science, Innovation, and Partnerships at UChicago and dean of the UChicago Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering.