On September 18, 2026, EPB launched the IonQ Forte Enterprise quantum computer at the EPB Quantum Center in Chattanooga, Tennessee, establishing America’s first commercial quantum computing and networking hub. The milestone combines advanced quantum hardware with EPB’s 216-fiber network, allowing companies to develop and test quantum technologies with partners including the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga and Vanderbilt University.
“Today’s launch represents another major step in the growth of a quantum ecosystem found only in Chattanooga,” said Vicky Gregg, Chair of the EPB Board of Directors. Just as EPB’s gig-speed internet launch in 2010 reshaped the community, this investment aims to drive economic opportunity and position Chattanooga as a national quantum hub.
EPB and IonQ Launch First US Commercial Quantum Computing Hub
This combination, facilitated by EPB’s 216-fiber network and AliroNet software, allows companies to directly test and deploy quantum technologies within a live commercial environment. Initial access prioritizes EPB’s own Quantum Computing Fellows, who will apply the system to optimize circuits within the local power grid, a project funded by a $4 million grant from the National Institute of Standards and Technology, IonQ says. EPB’s commitment extends beyond internal applications; the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga will be the first external customer, using the new computer for ongoing research.
Vanderbilt University is also slated to begin projects shortly, further cementing Chattanooga’s position as a hub for quantum innovation. IonQ’s investment of $15 million in a Tennessee Quantum Communications Research Center within Chattanooga will create approximately two dozen jobs, including quantum scientists and researchers. This expansion complements UTC’s own quantum program, which is projected to add between 135 and 240 faculty, staff, and students.
Vanderbilt University’s forthcoming Institute for Quantum Innovation will anchor its Chattanooga campus with around 250 personnel. Niccolo de Masi, Chairman and CEO of IonQ, stated, “EPB and IonQ have built something unique.
This Forte Enterprise system complements EPB’s quantum networking capabilities, laying the foundation for a full suite of applications for quantum communications and commercialization for their clients.” The collaborative effort extends to a hybrid computing project involving EPB, IonQ, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, and NVIDIA, combining quantum processing with a classical supercomputer to optimize EPB’s electric grid and explore future energy systems. The economic projections for Chattanooga’s quantum initiatives are substantial, with estimates reaching up to $1.1 billion in gains over the next decade.
Mayor Tim Kelly highlighted the parallels to EPB’s earlier fiber network deployment, noting that “just as EPB’s fiber network made us a leader in the digital economy, EPB Quantum Center is attracting investment and talent by deploying a technology that is expected to shape industries and economies for decades to come.” This growth is being actively fostered through educational programs like the Energy and Quantum Industries Academy at Franklin-Roberts Future Ready Center, designed to prepare approximately 400 high school students annually for careers in quantum and related fields. Hamilton County Schools is also piloting a statewide K-12 quantum education initiative, introducing students to quantum concepts at an early age. “Becoming the first U.S. hub to offer commercially available quantum computing and quantum networking under one roof is a milestone,” said Mayor Kelly.
Today’s launch represents another major step in the growth of a quantum ecosystem found only in Chattanooga.
Vicky Gregg, Chair of the EPB Board of Directors
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