A close-up of a microchip. Image via Shutterstock.
As we approach 2026, it’s undeniable that technological innovation drives economic leadership, and Illinois is leading at this intersection. As an emerging global nexus for quantum computing, AI, and microelectronics, our state is actively shaping humanity by advancing—and applying—tech in real time.
From world-class R&D centers and state-of-the-art infrastructure to unmatched talent, Illinois is the ideal location for companies looking to expand or relocate with innovation as their North Star.
A Global Leader in Quantum Tech
Illinois is one of the most vibrant quantum ecosystems on the planet, anchored by the Chicago Quantum Exchange (CQE), a global consortium uniting national laboratories, top-tier universities, and hundreds of corporate and nonprofit partners.
It’s also the only state to host four of 10 National Quantum Initiative Act research centers:
- Argonne National Laboratory
- Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory (Fermilab)
- University of Chicago (UChicago)
- University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC)
Earlier this fall, the state broke ground on its first-of-its-kind Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park (IQMP), a $500+ million innovation project with 128+ acres of land, testing and measurement labs, shared cryogenic facilities, and workforce training programs. Its anchor tenant, PsiQuantum, will build the world’s first fault-tolerant computer; IBM, Diraq, Infleqtion, Pascal, and DARPA (and counting) will join PsiQuantum at the Park.
Companies that expand or relocate in Illinois (finding home in the Park or otherwise!) are embedded in a fast-growing, state-supported, and globally-recognized ecosystem—ideal for collaboration, scale-up, and distribution.
Advancing AI With Infrastructure, Talent, and Investment
Illinois ranks among the top 10 states for AI jobs and STEM graduates with world-class institutions like:
- UIUC: Top 10 in AI, computer science, and engineering
- Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT): Offers the Midwest’s only undergraduate degree in AI
- Argonne National Laboratory and UIUC’s Supercomputing Centers: Home to 5 of the world’s top 500 supercomputers (November 2024) including Aurora, the world’s 3rd most powerful supercomputer
The state’s AI talent pool showcases its skills at companies like Google, C3.ai (built on a partnership with UIUC), Tempus, Copado, Uptake, and Seismic—all either founded or operating in Illinois. Plus, Compass DataCenters announced last year a major investment in Hoffman Estates, showcasing Illinois’ role as a hub for scalable computing infrastructure.
Here, applied AI meets real-world needs; Illinois boasts a highly diverse industry base ready to adopt these new technologies. From fintech and logistics to life sciences and national defense, AI firms in Illinois enjoy a playground for innovation and impact at scale.
Illinois’ Microelectronics Momentum
Illinois has long been a leader in microelectronics and today boasts the #4 most concentrated semiconductor-ready workforce in the U.S. Thanks to support at the federal and state levels, that leadership is only accelerating. Key assets include:
- UIUC’s Grainger College of Engineering, a recognized leader in semiconductor R&D
- UChicago’s Pritzker Nanofabrication Facility—with ISO Class 5 cleanroom capabilities
State-backed legislation like the MICRO (Manufacturing Illinois Chips for Real Opportunity) Act empowers semiconductor manufacturers with tax credits, training grants, and site-readiness support.
Illinois’ microelectronics ecosystem serves critical sectors like aerospace and defense, automotive, and AI, and is supported by robust incentives and deep technical talent, ready for the future.
Unmatched in Illinois: A Future-Ready Workforce
Illinois is a top-5 state for STEM graduates, with over 45,000 degrees awarded in 2023 alone. Its network of six R1 research universities, 48 community colleges, and tailored workforce initiatives—like Manufacturing Training Academies (MTAs) and quantum-specific upskilling programs—means companies have continual access to an abundant talent pool.
Illinois boasts:
- 113K+ quantum-relevant production workers
- 71K+ non-QIS technical experts
- A top-10 labor force in the U.S. (#1 in the Midwest)
Whether you’re scaling a quantum startup or staffing a chip fabrication facility, Illinois offers a pipeline that’s both deep and diverse.
Strong in Policy, Incentives, and Business Support
When it comes to emerging tech, Illinois is ready to put its money where its mouth is, backing innovation with major funding and programs like:
Plus, the state received significant federal funding through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and is designated a Regional Tech & Innovation Hub by the U.S. EDA, positioning Illinois for long-term federal collaboration and support.
Why Illinois for Your Company?
For companies seeking ground to grow, Illinois is the premier business destination. It offers:
- Elite R&D and commercialization infrastructure
- Abundant and specialized workforce
- Unmatched public-private partnerships
- Business-friendly policies and incentives
- Access to central logistics, data centers, and a diverse industry base
If you’re building the next breakthrough algorithm, or you’re fabricating chips to support an exploding AI industry, Illinois is your launchpad for growth—and sustainable success.
Learn what Illinois can do for your company. Get in touch with our team today.
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