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P33 Chicago

To propel the Illinois Quantum Revolution, P33 and the National Quantum Algorithm Centre have launched the Grand Challenges Program. October 2025, Chicago The Grand Challenges initiative was launched, according to a statement from P33 and the National Quantum Algorithm Centre (NQAC). The goal of this program is to assist postdoctoral researchers in Illinois who are creating quantum applications that are pertinent to industry. Accelerating advances in quantum algorithm research is the program’s goal. To kick off the Grand Challenges program, two $125,000 awards will be given out.

Building Quantum Momentum in Illinois

This ambitious project follows important recent advancements in the state’s quantum landscape and unites academia and industry. With the recent groundbreaking of anchor tenant PsiQuantum’s facility at the Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park (IQMP), situated at Quantum Shore on Chicago’s South Side, momentum for Illinois quantum is only growing. The news that additional significant quantum firms are investing in Chicago comes after this ground-breaking revelation.

P33 CEO Brad Henderson emphasised the strategic significance of the partnership, saying that as Illinois continues to lead the quantum revolution, the program hopes to cultivate an alliance that creates a path for innovation. Henderson underlined that the Grand Challenges initiative “unites the end users of quantum computing technology, the academic quantum algorithm experts, and trailblazing quantum companies.” P33 is proud to support the development of this unique partnership.

Program Requirements and Focus Sectors

The Grand Challenges program is designed to provide practical experience to postdoctoral researchers. Participants will concentrate on converting quantum discoveries into workable answers to challenging real-world problems. Among these difficulties are some of the most difficult issues confronting industries like energy, materials science, and finance. The initiative’s goal is to transform quantum findings into solutions that have the potential to improve the lives of millions of people.

Every proposal is required to have a three-way partnership. This partnership has to include:

1. An academic institution located in Illinois.
2. A corporation that makes quantum software or hardware.
3. A business associate.

Importantly, the Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park (IQMP) must already have a relationship with the academic partners and quantum enterprises that are applying for these awards. A non-quantum business from an industry like banking, pharmaceuticals, insurance, energy, chemicals, materials, or any relevant area must be the necessary industrial partner. Quantum technology proof-of-concept work will be supported by the funded programs.

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Organizational Structure and Support

An important part of Illinois’s quantum strategy is the National Quantum Algorithm Centre (NQAC). The NQAC, a membership organisation based at IQMP, unites national labs, academics, partners, industry end users of quantum technology, and quantum startups. Its goal is to develop quantum applications and algorithms that benefit businesses and society. The NQAC was created especially to serve as the hub for non-quantum businesses and scientists from a variety of fields to interact with the park’s quantum technologies.

The program’s starting partner, P33, is a non-profit organisation with both public and private funding. The main goal of P33 is to make Chicago a premier centre for technology and innovation, which will promote equitable economic growth. Deep research serves as the foundation for the organization’s efforts, which seek to harness the digital era’s potential to address difficult issues facing Chicago, such as deep science commercialisation, talent retention, gaps in the growth-stage startup ecosystem, and fair access to digital employment.

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Chris Gladwin, the CEO and co-founder of Ocient and Cleversafe, Kelly Welsh, the former president of the Civic Committee of The Commercial Club of Chicago, and Penny Pritzker, the former secretary of commerce, launched P33 in 2019.

The first two funding opportunities are currently accepting applications. The complete details of the Request for Proposals (RFP) are available to interested parties.

Application Details and Timeline

Important dates for the Grand Challenges program’s inaugural round are:

• Interested applicants can attend a Q&A session on Monday, November 10, 2025, from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. CT. (Applicant submission does not need participation.)
• Application deadline: 11:59 p.m. CT on Wednesday, December 10, 2025.
• Time of Review: January 2026.
• Award Notification: By February 2026 at the latest.

Applications must be sent to NQAC@IQMP.org by email.

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