ARLINGTON HEIGHTS –As a longtime advocate for greater investments in quantum computing development, State Senator Mark Walker is celebrating a major federal partnership in quantum research in the state this week. 

“Quantum research creates hundreds of local jobs, generates billions of dollars for our state’s economy, and keeps Illinois at the forefront of technological progress nationwide,” said Walker (D-Arlington Heights). “This partnership will help usher in the future of innovative technology, and ensure Illinois is front and center in these discoveries.”

Following past investments from Illinois into quantum research and infrastructure, Governor JB Pritzker, legislative leaders and representatives from the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency announced Quantum Proving Ground, an ongoing partnership exploring the potential of quantum computing in Illinois. The partnership includes building a “quantum campus” where quantum computing prototypes will be tested and evaluated as part of DARPA’s new Quantum Benchmarking Initiative.

Quantum computing is rapidly-emerging technology that harnesses the laws of quantum mechanics to solve problems too complex for classical computers. It has the potential to revolutionize every industry, including  banking, logistics, air travel, and national security because it will be able to process data at incredibly fast speeds. The new facility will include shared cryo facilities, equipment labs, and spaces for both private companies and Illinois’ research universities to collaborate and research. The campus is projected to generate up to $60 billion in economic impact and create thousands of jobs.

The FY 25 budget, which Walker supported, allocated $500 million in state investment to help fund quantum research and build this campus. Before the budget was finalized, Walker had filed legislation advocating for a $5 million investment in quantum research, recognizing the economic importance of the industry to the state. The final budget included a hundred times the investment originally proposed, largely thanks to Walker’s commitment to establish quantum research as an Illinois industry.

“It is clear that quantum research is essential to our future—of both technology and our economy,” said Walker. “Therefore, it is essential that Illinois establishes herself as an industry leader in this developing business. I am proud that the investments I fought for in the budget are distinguishing us as a trailblazer nationwide, and hope to see these investments turn into more jobs for hard-working Illinoisans.”   

The location of the new campus will be announced soon. For more information for businesses interested in expanding to quantum industries, click here.