CO.LAB Q offers 12 months to build a quantum business in Chattanooga

Beginning in November 2026, The Company Lab will launch CO.LAB Q, a 12-month commercialization studio designed to accelerate the development of quantum startups. The program connects founders with crucial infrastructure, including access to EPB Quantum’s quantum network, and technical expertise from founding partners Quantinuum and Davidson Technologies. “Quantum startups require specialized care because the path from scientific breakthrough to commercial success is unusually complex,” said Tasia Malakasis, CEO of The Company Lab, emphasizing the studio’s focus on bridging the gap between research and scalable businesses.

CO.LAB Q: 12-Month Studio for Quantum Commercialization

Providing both specialized computing resources and crucial insight into applications spanning commercial sectors and national security needs, a new commercialization studio launching in November 2026 is foundational to Quantinuum and Davidson Technologies. CO.LAB Q is a 12-month program designed to bridge the gap between scientific discovery and viable market solutions, focusing on individualized support rather than a standardized curriculum.

Companies accepted into the studio will receive tailored roadmaps based on their specific technology, current market readiness, and long-term commercial objectives. Middle Tennessee Electric serves as CO.LAB Q’s Founding Utility Partner, offering expertise in real-world utility applications and assisting startups in identifying and validating quantum solutions to improve grid reliability and efficiency.

This focus on practical application extends to a partnership with the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, which will connect companies and students possessing specialized quantum research expertise. “Quantum advancement will matter to the war-fighter when it is tied to real mission needs and demonstrated in practice,” said Nathan Klose, vice president of Davidson Labs, highlighting the defense-focused track within the studio.

Chattanooga’s unique position as home to the first U.S. commercial quantum computing and networking hub, EPB Quantum Center, further strengthens the program’s potential. “The next generation of economic growth will be shaped by communities that are prepared to support innovation from discovery through commercialization,” said Bob Corker, former U.S. senator and former mayor of Chattanooga. “CO.LAB Q is working to bring together the resources, expertise and partnerships needed to help quantum companies succeed and reinforces Chattanooga’s role as a place where new technologies can become market-ready solutions.” Applications are now open through thecompanylab.org/quantum.

Quantinuum & Davidson Technologies Fuel Quantum Infrastructure Access

Quantinuum’s contribution includes access to its high-performance trapped-ion quantum computers, the Nexus cloud platform, and the Guppy quantum programming language, enabling startups to build and test applications on an integrated technology platform. This partnership extends beyond mere computing power; Davidson Technologies will serve as the Founding Defense Track Sponsor, offering mentorship on national-security mission needs, acquisition processes, and cybersecurity considerations. The studio’s design prioritizes commercial evidence over rigid curricula, concentrating resources on the most critical risks and milestones for each participating team.

EPB Quantum will provide access to its quantum network, expanding opportunities for startups to explore emerging applications and advance communications efforts. “Accelerating quantum computing requires more than powerful technology—it requires an ecosystem that connects innovators to real-world problems,” explained Larry Stack, Chief Commercial Officer of Quantinuum, emphasizing the importance of a collaborative environment for fostering innovation and driving the next generation of quantum companies. The combination of infrastructure, industry partnerships, and entrepreneurial support in Tennessee and Chattanooga positions the region as a compelling hub for quantum commercialization.

Tennessee Valley Ecosystem Supports Quantum Application Validation

Focused on accelerating the commercialization of quantum technologies within the Tennessee Valley, a new initiative leverages the capabilities of Quantinuum and Davidson Technologies. This regional concentration of resources is anchored by EPB Quantum Center, the first U.S. commercial quantum computing and networking hub, alongside the Tennessee Valley Authority and Oak Ridge National Laboratory.

CO.LAB’s 2026 memorandum of understanding with ORNL strengthens access to technologies and specialized facilities for entrepreneurs. “The latest example of Chattanooga’s thriving innovation ecosystem is CO.LAB Q’s Commercialization Studio,” stated Chattanooga Mayor Tim Kelly, emphasizing the program’s potential to create jobs and attract investment.