P33 And The National Quantum Algorithm Center Unveil Grand Challenges Program

Insider Brief

P33 and the National Quantum Algorithm Center (NQAC) have launched the Grand Challenges program to fund postdoctoral research developing industry-relevant quantum applications in Illinois.
The initiative begins with two $125,000 awards and requires collaborations between Illinois academic institutions, quantum hardware or software companies, and non-quantum industry partners.
The program aims to accelerate real-world quantum solutions in fields such as finance, materials science, and energy while strengthening Illinois’ position as a national leader in quantum innovation.
Photo by FlyD on Unsplash

PRESS RELEASE — P33 and the National Quantum Algorithm Center (NQAC) today announced the launch of the Grand Challenges program, an initiative to support postdoctoral researchers developing industry-relevant quantum applications in Illinois. Beginning with two $125,000 awards, the program will foster collaboration among universities, national laboratories, and industry partners, giving postdoctoral researchers the opportunity to tackle real-world challenges, develop quantum algorithms, and access cutting-edge quantum resources while funding proof-of-concept work on quantum technologies.

Fresh on the heels of the groundbreaking for anchor tenant PsiQuantum’s facility at the Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park (IQMP) at Quantum Shore on Chicago’s South Side, and following the announcements that other major quantum companies are investing in Chicago, momentum for Illinois quantum continues to build with the launch of the Grand Challenges program.

“Grand Challenges unites our academic quantum algorithm experts, trailblazing quantum companies, and the end users of quantum computing technology,” said Brad Henderson, CEO at P33. “We’re proud to help foster this first-of-its-kind alliance to build a pathway for innovation as Illinois continues to lead the quantum revolution.”

Applications are now open for the first two funding opportunities. Each proposal must include a three-way collaboration among an Illinois-based academic institution, a quantum hardware or software company, and an industry partner. Successful applicants will gain hands-on experience translating quantum discoveries into practical solutions that could address some of the toughest challenges in finance, materials science, and energy—turning quantum discoveries into solutions that could touch millions of lives.

The academic partners and quantum companies participating in these grants must be from universities and quantum companies that already have established relationships with IQMP. The industry partner should be a non-quantum company from sectors such as pharmaceuticals, finance, insurance, energy, chemicals, materials, or another applicable industry. Please refer to the RFP for this initiative for full application details and timelines.

Key Dates:

Q&A Session for Interested Applicants: Monday, Nov. 10, 2025, 10:30–11:30 a.m. CT
- Register for this session here
- Participation in this session is not required to submit an application
Application Deadline: Wednesday, Dec. 10, 2025, 11:59 p.m. CT
- Applications should be submitted by email to [email protected]
Review Period: January 2026
Award Notification: No later than February 2026