IBM to join new algorithm center on Illinois quantum campus

CHICAGO (WGEM) – The Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park (IQMP) is getting a major addition. The quantum campus in Chicago is adding the new National Quantum Algorithm Center with the technology company IBM being its first major tenant.

“For decades, IBM has established itself as a worldwide leader in computing and technology solutions, so it’s really humbling that they believe in our vision for creating a first-of-its-kind global hub for quantum scale-up,” said IQMP CEO Harley Johnson.

IBM will house its next-generation, modular quantum computer at the center, “IBM Quantum Systems Two.”

The governor’s office said the algorithm center will aim to advance the exploration of quantum-centric supercomputing across industries.

“This center will be a home for groundbreaking new research and exploration on applications and advancements that will solve complex challenges across industries,” said Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker.

He said in addition to IBM, partners in the new algorithm center will include universities, national labs, private computing software and hardware companies, and corporate users from various industries.

“Quantum has the potential to open a world of possibilities. The work that will take place at the National Quantum Algorithm Center and across the Illinois quantum infrastructure will help us wrestle with the most pressing questions of the day in climate change, in national security, health care and beyond,” Pritzker said.

Wednesday’s announcement that IBM will be joining the campus is part of the state’s larger quest to make Illinois a quantum hub. Pritzker signed legislation creating a Quantum Enterprise Zone in June with an initial state investment of $500 million into the quantum computing campus. In July, the state signed a memorandum of understanding with the U.S. Department of Defense’s Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency to create a quantum proving ground.

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