The Chicago region has been designated by the Biden-Harris administration as a major U.S. Tech Hub for quantum technologies. This recognition not only opens the door to new federal funding but also highlights the region’s growing strength and potential to become the heart of the nation’s quantum economy.
The designation was awarded to The Bloch Tech Hub, a coalition led by the Chicago Quantum Exchange, which consists of industry, academic, government, and nonprofit stakeholders. Out of nearly 400 applications, The Bloch was one of 31 designees chosen for this prestigious recognition.
This first phase of the federal initiative aims to “supercharge” innovation economies that have the potential to become global leaders in critical technologies within a decade. As a recipient of the U.S. Tech Hubs designation, The Bloch is now eligible to apply for the program’s second phase, which could bring in millions of dollars in funding for the hub’s activities.
The Chicago region’s strong partnerships between leading research institutions and industry partners, along with strong federal and state government support, have contributed to its prominence in the quantum field. The region is home to renowned institutions like the University of Chicago’s Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, which houses the Chicago Quantum Exchange. These institutions have been instrumental in driving U.S. leadership in quantum.
The Bloch Tech Hub aims to leverage the region’s strengths, talent, and existing economy to accelerate the adoption of quantum technologies across various industries. Additionally, the hub is committed to investing in underserved communities and fostering a diverse workforce representative of the region as a whole.
The U.S. Tech Hubs program focuses on developing a strong, inclusive quantum workforce and strengthening local communities. This emphasis on people and communities underscores the vital importance of investing in a robust quantum economy.
This designation is a significant milestone for the Chicago region’s mission to establish itself as a top-tier tech and innovation hub. With the support of the EDA’s Tech Hub program, the region’s tech capabilities are expected to greatly expand, generating numerous jobs and fostering inclusive economic development prospects.
FAQs
1. What is the U.S. Tech Hubs program?
The U.S. Tech Hubs program is a federal initiative aimed at “supercharging” innovation economies that have the potential to become global leaders in critical technologies within a decade. It provides funding and support to designated tech hubs across the country.
2. What is the significance of the Chicago region’s designation as a U.S. Tech Hub for quantum technologies?
The designation recognizes the growing strength and potential of the Chicago region to become the heart of the nation’s quantum economy. It opens the door to new federal funding and highlights the region’s contributions to advancing quantum technologies.
3. What is the role of The Bloch Tech Hub?
The Bloch Tech Hub, led by the Chicago Quantum Exchange, aims to accelerate the adoption of quantum technologies across various industries. It leverages the region’s strengths, talent, and existing economy to drive quantum innovation and invest in underserved communities.
4. How will the U.S. Tech Hubs program benefit the Chicago region?
The program is expected to greatly enhance the region’s tech capabilities, creating numerous job opportunities and fostering inclusive economic development. It will further solidify the Chicago region as a top-tier tech and innovation hub.
5. What other initiatives is the Chicago Quantum Exchange involved in?
The Chicago Quantum Exchange is also part of a separate coalition in the National Science Foundation Regional Innovation Engines competition. This competition aims to award funds to winners who will contribute to advancing U.S. leadership in quantum technologies.