Last year, Illinois made monumental economic developments, particularly one that brings the state to the forefront of a premier technological industry. Last summer, the state announced a major Manufacturing Illinois Chips for Real Opportunity Act agreement with PsiQuantum – a leading quantum computing company set to build the first practical, error-corrected quantum computer at the Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park in Chicago.

Quantum computing is emerging as a cutting-edge sector of computer science that focuses on solving large problems through the use of quantum mechanics. Quantum computers, as opposed to normal super computers, use qubits instead of bits to store information and process the data differently. These computers can solve problems on a grander scale much faster than classical computers by testing multiple potential solutions simultaneously and measuring the probability of finding the best outcome.

PsiQuantum seeks to promote innovation, conduct competitive research and kindle economic growth for Illinois. The Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park, a first-of-its-kind park for quantum advancement and research, is projected to generate up to $20 billion in economic activity and create thousands of jobs.

The park is the site of the state’s partnership with the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) to explore the future of quantum computing in Illinois. A Quantum Proving Ground program, part of DARPA’s Quantum Benchmarking Initiative, will design prototypes to be tested and evaluated.

In December 2024, Illinois announced a partnership with IBM to establish the National Quantum Algorithm Center that will use their new modular quantum computer – called “IBM Quantum System Two.”

As this next-generation technology continues to show potential, investments in quantum computing technology are furthering Illinois’ status as a leader in emerging technology.