The Bloch Quantum, a multi-state coalition led by the Chicago Quantum Exchange, has advanced to the second and final stage of the U.S. Economic Development Administration Tech Hubs awards competition. The proposal, which targets the Chicago metropolitan area spanning Illinois, Wisconsin, and Indiana, was one of only 11 selected from 19 applicants to move forward. A final announcement of the winners—who will receive significant implementation funding—is expected in the second quarter of 2026.
The Bloch’s proposal focuses on securing the domestic quantum supply chain and accelerating the transition of quantum technologies from the laboratory to commercial deployment. If funded, the initiative will scale a development cycle that integrates quantum developers with manufacturers, providing dedicated facilities for the design, production, assembly, and testing of quantum hardware. This infrastructure is intended to solve critical bottlenecks in the “Quantum Prairie” region, which is already home to major research institutions, national laboratories, and over two dozen quantum startups.
Strategically, The Bloch aims to leverage the Midwest’s existing manufacturing capacity to address issues of national importance, including energy grid resilience, financial security, and defense. The hub has already demonstrated regional impact by attracting Bluefors Lab Service to Chicago to expand cryogenic capacity. Future plans include expanding the Chicago Quantum Network and the Illinois Quantum & Microelectronics Park, which will house the DARPA-Illinois Quantum Proving Ground. These facilities are designed to provide shared access to the specialized equipment necessary for building and validating quantum-based sensors and communication systems.
Read the official announcement from the Chicago Quantum Exchange here and view the U.S. Economic Development Administration Tech Hubs program details here.
January 7, 2026
