In a significant advancement for quantum computing in Illinois, Infleqtion announced it will establish its presence at the Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park (IQMP) at the former U.S. Steel South Works site. The company aims to develop the first utility-scale quantum computer in the state, building on a $50 million investment unveiled by Governor JB Pritzker on Wednesday.
The IQMP is envisioned as a hub for quantum technology, with Pritzker and local leaders aspiring to create the ‘Silicon Valley’ of quantum computing in the region. Infleqtion will join a roster of pioneering companies like PsiQuantum, IBM, and Diraq at the park, which is slated to open its doors in 2027. However, CEO Matthew Kinsella stated that Infleqtion plans to bring its quantum computing initiatives to Illinois before the official opening of the park.
Kinsella highlighted Chicago’s potential to become a significant player in the quantum technology landscape. He pointed to the city’s desirable living conditions and its foundation of essential resources that mirror the early days of Silicon Valley. “If you look at how Silicon Valley built up over the years… Chicago is very much one of them,” Kinsella told the Sun-Times.
Currently headquartered in Colorado, Infleqtion has a quantum software team operating in Chicago’s Loop and intends to maintain that office space while centralizing its quantum computing projects in Illinois. With about 15 employees already in the Chicago area, the firm has committed to creating at least 50 new jobs focused on engineering and research.
As part of a Manufacturing Illinois Chips for Real Opportunity Program partnership, Infleqtion will pour $14 million into the project, with state tax credits exceeding $5 million to bolster its investment. Pranav Gokhale, Infleqtion’s vice president and general manager of computing, mentioned that additional grants will be accessible as the project advances.
Gokhale also emphasized the strategic advantages of the IQMP, noting the availability of local research collaborators, attractive incentives, and a rich talent pool. Infleqtion will work with various entities, including government-backed programs from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Advanced Research Projects Agency, the U.S. Army, and commercial partners like Wellcome Leap.
The competition in quantum computing is intensifying, with PsiQuantum announcing plans to create the nation’s first commercially viable quantum computer by 2027 at the same quantum park. Quantum computing is set apart by its capability to handle vast combinations of binary bits, allowing computers to tackle larger and more complex challenges.
Experts are optimistic about the transformative potential of quantum computing, particularly in the fields of medicine and data security. Kinsella believes one of the most exciting opportunities presented by quantum technology lies in discovering new materials, something that classical computing struggles with. “If you were to do that in the classical computing world… that would take you the life of the universe to do. But that’s something a quantum computer could do almost instantly,” Kinsella explained.
He also believes the implications for economic growth are substantial, making the state’s heavy investment in quantum technologies a wise decision. Drawing parallels to the rise of artificial intelligence, Kinsella and Gokhale noted that a utility-scale quantum computer could democratize access to quantum technology for everyday problem-solving, similar to how ChatGPT has normalized AI among consumers.
Infleqtion’s quantum computer, designed to be compact—approximately the size of a dinner table—will eventually be developed further to fit into a laptop and even a portable format for everyday use. Kinsella confirmed that the South Works facility will house its third quantum computer, following sales of previous models to the United Kingdom and the Institute for Molecular Science in Japan.
Within a 12 to 18-month timeframe, Infleqtion aims to deploy quantum computers directly at customer sites, enhancing accessibility to this groundbreaking technology. Pritzker announced plans for the 128-acre quantum park in July 2024, expecting it to generate a $20 billion economic impact and create thousands of jobs over the next decade.
The development will reinvigorate the former South Works facility, which has remained abandoned for three decades. Pritzker’s budget for 2025 allocated a significant $500 million in state funding dedicated to quantum research, including $300 million specifically for the South Works park. The city of Chicago also contributed $5 million, drawn from Mayor Brandon Johnson’s $1.5 billion housing and economic development bond, with Cook County matching this amount.
“Infleqtion is an important and the latest in a line of leading quantum researchers and business leaders to commit to this project, with more to come,” Governor Pritzker remarked. He added, “Ultimately, that means good jobs and economic opportunity for Illinois. It means major leaps forward for humankind—quantum has the potential to open a world of possibilities and solve some of our world’s greatest challenges here in Chicago, Illinois, and with Infleqtion.”
The IQMP will represent the initial phase of development at the 400-acre property located at 8080 S. DuSable Lake Shore Dr. The site is expected to be completed by 2027, with Related Midwest and CRG partnering to develop the park. Historical attempts to redevelop the area, including plans for a Solo Cup Co. factory and residential projects, have faltered over the years. Community groups and environmental activists have expressed concerns regarding environmental implications, urging the city to pause development processes to secure a community benefits agreement.
Governor Pritzker acknowledged these community concerns while maintaining a positive outlook on the development’s potential benefits. He stated, “Everybody wants the best for their communities. A site that sits abandoned for 30 years with no jobs is not helpful to the community at all. This endeavor is geared to bring jobs and economic opportunities to the area.” He urged a balanced approach towards development that considers both community growth and the need for economic revitalization.
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