Bold Initiative Brings Together Academia and Industry to Accelerate Breakthroughs in Quantum Algorithm Research
CHICAGO (Oct. 30, 2025) – P33 and the National Quantum Algorithm Center (NQAC) today announced the launch of the Grand Challenges program, an initiative to support postdoctoral researchers developing industry-relevant quantum applications in Illinois. Beginning with two $125,000 awards, the program will foster collaboration among universities, national laboratories, and industry partners, giving postdoctoral researchers the opportunity to tackle real-world challenges, develop quantum algorithms and access cutting-edge quantum resources, while funding proof-of-concept work on quantum technologies.
Fresh on the heels of the groundbreaking for anchor tenant PsiQuantum’s facility at the Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park (IQMP) at Quantum Shore on Chicago’s South Side, and following the announcements that other major quantum companies are investing in Chicago, momentum for Illinois quantum continues to build with the launch of the Grand Challenges program.
“Grand Challenges unites our academic quantum algorithm experts, trailblazing quantum companies, and the end users of quantum computing technology,” said Brad Henderson, CEO at P33. “We’re proud to help foster this first-of-its-kind alliance to build a pathway for innovation as Illinois continues to lead the quantum revolution.”
Applications are now open for the first two funding opportunities. Each proposal must include a three-way collaboration among an Illinois-based academic institution, a quantum hardware or software company, and an industry partner. Successful applicants will gain hands-on experience translating quantum discoveries into practical solutions that could address some of the toughest challenges in finance, materials science, and energy, turning quantum discoveries into solutions that could touch millions of lives.
The academic partners and quantum companies participating in these grants must be from universities and quantum companies that already have established relationships with IQMP. The industry partner should be a non-quantum company from sectors such as pharmaceuticals, finance, insurance, energy, chemicals, materials, or another applicable industry. Please refer to the RFP for this initiative for full application details and timelines.
Key Dates:
- Q&A Session for Interested Applicants: Monday, Nov 10, 2025, 10:30-11:30 a.m. CT
- Register for this session here
- Participation in this session is not required to submit an application
- Application Deadline: Wednesday, Dec. 10, 2025, 11:59 p.m. CT
- Applications should be submitted by email to NQAC@IQMP.org
- Review Period: January 2026
- Award Notification: No later than February 2026
About National Quantum Algorithm Center:
The National Quantum Algorithm Center (NQAC) is membership organization at IQMP that brings together industry end-users of quantum technology, quantum companies, academia, national labs, and partners to advance quantum algorithms and applications that generate value for companies and to society. NQAC will be the place for non-quantum companies and scientists across sectors to engage with the park’s quantum technology.
About P33:
P33 is a publicly and privately-funded non-profit with a mission to transform Chicago into a tier 1 tech and innovation hub driving inclusive economic growth. P33’s work is anchored in deep research and driven by a need to unlock the potential of the digital age to solve some of the toughest problems facing Chicago, such as equitable access to digital careers, talent retention, deep science commercialization, and gaps in the growth-stage startup ecosystem. P33 was launched in 2019 by Penny Pritzker, former Secretary of Commerce and founder and chairman of PSP Partners; Chris Gladwin, CEO and co-founder of Ocient and Cleversafe; and Kelly Welsh, former President of the Civic Committee of The Commercial Club of Chicago. Learn more at p33chicago.com.
