Alchemist Accelerator and the University of Chicago’s Polsky Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation have partnered to launch Alchemist Chicago, a new deep tech accelerator. This initiative is designed to facilitate the transition of scientific breakthroughs from laboratory to market, supporting early-stage ventures across industries such as quantum, artificial intelligence (AI), cleantech, and robotics.
Alchemist Chicago is open to global founders and operates in two phases. Phase I, scheduled for October–December 2025, will support up to 30 startups focused on validation and building traction. Phase II, from January–March 2026, will select 8–10 startups for fundraising readiness, with each receiving an investment of $50,000. The program targets pre-seed or seed-stage deep tech startups with technical co-founders, specifically welcoming those building in quantum (backed by Duality, a quantum accelerator), data science & AI, advanced materials & manufacturing, and other foundational technology categories. Program benefits include customized coaching, mentorship, entrepreneurial training, access to student talent, and resources for IP strategy and grant writing.
This collaboration combines Alchemist Accelerator’s network with the University of Chicago’s research capabilities and affiliations with national laboratories. The program aims to provide structured support for deep tech startups, addressing the need for commercialization pathways for foundational innovation. The initiative reinforces efforts to foster entrepreneurship around foundational technology, contributing to the development of applied innovation in areas such as quantum technology.
Read the full announcement here.
July 21, 2025
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