The Bloch Quantum advanced to the final stage of the US Economic Development Administration’s Tech Hubs awards competition. Their proposal was among 11 of 19 to progress, aiming to secure the US quantum supply chain and accelerate commercialization. This cross-sector coalition serves the Chicago metropolitan area—spanning Illinois, Wisconsin, and Indiana—and is led by the Chicago Quantum Exchange.
Bloch Quantum Advances to Final EDA Tech Hubs Stage
The Bloch Quantum’s proposal focuses on establishing a robust domestic quantum supply chain and speeding up the process of bringing quantum technologies to market. This advancement places the consortium among the top 11 of the initial 19 Tech Hubs competing for funding. Successfully securing this funding will allow integration of quantum developers, manufacturers, and facilities to cover design through testing phases. A key component of The Bloch’s strategy is leveraging existing Midwest manufacturing strengths and talent pools.
Since being designated a Tech Hub in 2023, the group facilitated expansion of cryogenic capabilities by attracting Bluefors Lab Service to the Chicago area. The region already boasts over two dozen quantum startups, alongside resources like Hyde Park Labs and the Illinois Quantum & Microelectronics Park.
Chicago Quantum Exchange Leads Midwest Quantum Supply Chain Development
This coalition, encompassing Illinois, Wisconsin, and Indiana, aims to connect quantum developers with manufacturers for complete innovation cycles—from design to testing. Securing funding would enable scaling quantum technologies for applications in areas like defense, energy, and biomedicine. This park will house a DARPA Quantum Proving Ground, further strengthening the Midwest’s role in quantum technology advancement.
Quantum technologies offer potential solutions to issues of national importance, including commercial and defense security, energy grid resilience, financial security, and, and biomedical advances – but to realize this potential, we must bring industries, technologists, and manufacturers together and ensure a strong domestic supply chain.
Jean-Luc Cambier, The Bloch’s Regional Innovation Officer
