Infleqtion to Spearhead Next-Generation Quantum Computing in Illinois with $50M Public-Private Investment
Infleqtion, a global leader in quantum information technologies, has announced a groundbreaking initiative to build the world’s first utility-scale, neutral atom quantum computer in Illinois. This ambitious project, developed in collaboration with the Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park (IQMP) and the National Quantum Algorithms Center (NQAC), represents an estimated $50 million public-private investment over the next four years. The initiative will position Illinois at the forefront of the global quantum ecosystem, driving innovation, job creation, and economic growth while advancing utility-scale quantum platforms.
At the heart of this effort is Infleqtion’s next-generation Sqale quantum computer, which targets 100 logical qubits and leverages thousands of neutral atom qubits. Designed to unlock the era of utility-scale quantum computing, the Sqale platform promises to deliver transformative applications in fields such as materials science, artificial intelligence, drug discovery, and national security.
A Milestone for Illinois’ Quantum Leadership
This announcement marks a significant milestone in Illinois’ commitment to becoming a global hub for quantum computing. By fostering collaboration among government entities, businesses, research institutions, and academia, Illinois has created an ecosystem that attracts leading players in quantum development. Governor JB Pritzker emphasized this vision during the announcement, stating:
“Just a few short years ago, we laid out a vision for making Illinois a global capital for quantum computing. We’ve worked with partners from across government, business, research institutions, National Laboratories, and academia to build an ecosystem that would attract the most important players in quantum development. I’m excited to announce that Infleqtion will be building their utility-scale, neutral atom quantum computer right here in Chicago, as a tenant of the Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park. This investment doubles down on their commitment to growth and innovation in our state, creating good jobs and economic opportunities for all.”
The project underscores Illinois’ leadership in quantum technology and its ability to catalyze public-private partnerships that drive research acceleration, workforce development, and capital investment. It also solidifies Chicago’s role as a cornerstone of quantum innovation, leveraging the region’s robust academic and industrial resources.
Expanding Infleqtion’s Presence in Illinois
Infleqtion has deep roots in the Illinois quantum ecosystem, including a strong R&D and engineering presence in downtown Chicago. As part of this initiative, the company plans to significantly expand its workforce in the state, creating new roles in engineering, commercialization, research, and beyond. Illinois will become Infleqtion’s headquarters for quantum computing initiatives, establishing a unified pipeline for quantum research, development, and talent cultivation.
“This is a pivotal step in turning decades of foundational research into transformative real-world impact,” said Fred Chong, Seymour Goodman Professor of Computer Science at the University of Chicago. “Chicago has long been a cornerstone of quantum innovation, and this project exemplifies how academic, government, and industry collaboration can accelerate progress. Neutral atom systems offer a uniquely promising path to scalability, and Infleqtion’s leadership in this space will help push the boundaries of what’s possible.”
Brad Henderson, CEO of P33, echoed this sentiment, stating, “Infleqtion is a tremendous partner to Chicago, Illinois, and the broader quantum community, and we are honored to deepen our collaboration. This underscores the region’s growing role as a global quantum leader and reinforces the importance of public-private partnerships in driving innovation, talent development, and economic growth. Infleqtion is helping build a future where the Midwest is synonymous with quantum leadership.”
Neutral Atoms: The Key to Scalable Quantum Computing
Infleqtion’s Sqale platform stands out due to its use of neutral atom qubits, which are among the most naturally uniform and scalable qubits available. The company holds commercial records for both qubit count—demonstrating a 1,600-atom array—and neutral atom fidelity, achieving 99.73% user-facing two-qubit fidelity. Unlike solid-state or superconducting approaches, neutral atom systems offer unparalleled flexibility, allowing for dynamic reconfigurability and easy scaling.
The installed Sqale quantum computer will integrate advanced technologies such as Infleqtion’s Superstaq compiler, optical control systems, and quantum error correction protocols. These innovations will enable cutting-edge AI applications through Contextual Machine Learning (CML), an algorithm Infleqtion debuted earlier this year at NVIDIA’s GTC conference. With its ability to support utility-scale workloads, Sqale has the potential to revolutionize industries ranging from healthcare to national security.
Driving Economic Growth Through Strategic Investments
Illinois continues to cement its status as a leader in quantum technology by introducing targeted incentives to attract companies like Infleqtion. Under the MICRO program, administered by the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), Infleqtion has committed to investing $14 million and creating dozens of full-time jobs in the state. In return, the company is eligible for tax credits exceeding $5 million, bringing the total value of investments and incentives to approximately $50 million.
Matthew Kinsella, CEO of Infleqtion, highlighted the importance of aligning capital and capability for quantum deployment: “As quantum moves to commercial deployment, capital and capability must align. Illinois is making the right investments to support long-term leadership, and we’re proud to expand our quantum computing leadership here as we build toward utility-scale and application-scale performance.”
Establishing Illinois as a Quantum Leader
By focusing on utility-scale quantum computing and neutral atom scalability, Infleqtion’s new platform complements Illinois’ broader efforts to foster a diverse and forward-looking quantum infrastructure. The state’s combination of world-class universities, national laboratories, and innovative private-sector partners creates an ideal environment for advancing quantum technologies.
As Infleqtion embarks on this transformative journey, its collaboration with Illinois stakeholders will not only accelerate quantum innovation but also create lasting economic and societal benefits. By positioning itself as a global leader in quantum computing, Illinois is paving the way for a future where quantum technologies drive breakthroughs that improve lives and strengthen industries worldwide.
With this initiative, Infleqtion and Illinois are proving that public-private partnerships can unlock the full potential of quantum computing, ensuring that the state remains at the epicenter of this revolutionary field.
About Infleqtion
Infleqtion is a world-leading quantum technology company pioneering transformative solutions that enhance precision and performance across multiple essential industries. With more than 18 years of experience commercializing quantum technology with neutral atoms, Infleqtion specializes in atomic clocks, quantum software, quantum RF, and neutral-atom quantum computing. We deliver state-of-the-art solutions for positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT), compute, precision timekeeping, and optimization. Our unparalleled expertise makes us the preferred partner for global customers seeking advanced quantum solutions for defense, enterprise, and compute applications.
