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.
This partnership will change the Duality Quantum Accelerator in Chicago a little. Previously the participating quantum cohorts started their 12 month program in July. The revised quantum program led by Alchemist Chicago in partnership with the University of Chicago’s Polsky Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation arrangement will be a two-phase program that starts in October and extends through March. Phase I, scheduled for October–December 2025, will support up to 30 quantum and other deeptech startups and will focus 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. Alchemist Accelerator has vast experience helping over 650 startups since it was initially formed in 2012. In addition, they have deep connections with top tier Silicon Valley venture firms and will be able to introduce companies participating in Alchemist Chicago to some additional funding sources as well as provide the startups with other tips for success they have learned along the way. 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.
The next deadline for application to participate in the next cohort is due on September 5, 2025. Read the full announcement here.
July 21, 2025
