Chicago’s position as a global hub for quantum technology continues to grow as Zero Point Cryogenics, one of only six companies in the world that designs and manufactures the specialized cryogenic systems used in quantum computing, has selected the Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park on the city’s South Side for its first U.S. location.
According to the company, its ultra-low-temperature cryogenic systems provide the essential infrastructure that allows many quantum computers to operate at temperatures approaching absolute zero.
The new Chicago facility will house Zero Point Cryogenics’ U.S. research and development, sales and service operations while supporting companies locating at or collaborating with the Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park.
Governor JB Pritzker said the investment reflects Illinois’ strategy of building a complete quantum technology ecosystem.
“Illinois is building the world’s leading quantum ecosystem by bringing together the companies, researchers, manufacturers and suppliers needed to turn breakthrough discoveries into real-world technologies,” Pritzker said. “Zero Point Cryogenics’ decision to establish its first U.S. location at the Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park is another example of that strategy delivering results.”
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Supported through Illinois’ Manufacturing Illinois Chips for Real Opportunity program, the company plans a substantial capital investment and will create more than 20 specialized, high-growth jobs.
“We couldn’t have chosen a better place to open Zero Point Cryogenics’ first international Innovation and Service Hub than Illinois,” said Chris Cassin, CEO and co-founder of Zero Point Cryogenics. “The region offers an exceptional pool of world-class talent, making it the perfect collaborative community to better serve our U.S.-based clients and partners.”
Harley Johnson, CEO of the Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park, said the addition of Zero Point Cryogenics further strengthens Chicago’s growing quantum ecosystem.
“Their presence is not just a natural fit for the collaborative environment we’re building. It further solidifies our position as the global destination for growing the quantum industry,” Johnson said.
Founded in 2017, Zero Point Cryogenics grew out of low-temperature physics research at the University of Alberta and manufactures dilution refrigerators capable of cooling quantum systems to temperatures measured in millikelvin, just fractions of a degree above absolute zero.
The announcement came during the second annual Global Quantum Forum in Chicago, where leaders from government, industry and academia gathered to discuss the future of quantum technology. It represents another milestone in Illinois’ effort to establish Chicago as a global center for quantum research, advanced manufacturing and commercialization.
Illinois has committed more than $700 million toward building its quantum ecosystem, including a $500 million investment in the Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park and a previous $200 million investment supporting the Chicago Quantum Exchange.
