SHERBROOKE, QC, July 12,
2024 /CNW/ - Quantum ecosystem leaders from
Canada and the U.S. are
expanding collaboration to create a positive and sustainable impact
on society through quantum information science and
technologies.
Representatives from the Chicago Quantum
Exchange, the University of
Chicago's, Polsky Center for Entrepreneurship and
Innovation and Distriq, Quantum Innovation Zone in
Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada,
recently met to discuss shared objectives, goals, and opportunities
to deepen relationships.
The respective quantum ecosystems comprise world-class research,
commercialization, entrepreneurial, and industrial clusters with
skilled talent pools.
"The expansion of our collaboration with the Chicago Quantum
Exchange and the Polsky Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation
marks a significant step towards fostering a robust and innovative
quantum ecosystem. By leveraging our combined expertise and
resources, we are poised to drive meaningful advancements in
quantum technologies that will benefit both our regions and the
global community," explained Martin
Enault, General Director of Distriq.
"We came back with several insights and look forward to future
discussions as we continue to develop our quantum ecosystem in
Chicago. By working together
toward shared goals, we are all more likely to succeed," said
Samir Mayekar, managing director of
the Polsky Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation.
"Collaborations such as this are key as we look to accelerate the
proliferation of quantum technologies for the benefit of all."
Mayekar signed the Letter of Intent on behalf of the
University of Chicago, and Preeti
Chalsani, deputy director of the University's quantum
accelerator, Duality, represented the Chicago Quantum
Exchange, where she also leads industry partnerships.
"Quebec has a budding quantum
ecosystem with valuable support infrastructure and programs to grow
this ecosystem," said Chalsani. "The visit served to strengthen
existing ties between the Illinois
and Quebec ecosystems and we look
forward to working closely with our partners in Quebec for mutual growth and advancement of
quantum technologies."
Other members of the delegation included the University of Chicago's executive director of
commercial real estate, Philip Gold;
Cory Olishansky, Consul and Délegué
commercial, Consulate General of Canada in Chicago; and from the Illinois Department of
Commerce and Economic Opportunity, Kristi
Dula, deputy director in the office of entrepreneurship, and
Jamie Gladfelter, emerging
technologies manager. Also among the group was Elina Kasman, vice president of business
development at Great Lakes Crystal Technologies, which was a
participant in the first cohort of Duality.
![Eze Burts, director of Duality (CNW Group/Distriq, Quantum Innovation Zone Sherbrooke) Eze Burts, director of Duality (CNW Group/Distriq, Quantum Innovation Zone Sherbrooke)](https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2460298/Distriq__Quantum_Innovation_Zone_Sherbrooke_Quantum_Ecosystem_Le.jpg)
"It's important for quantum ecosystem builders to partner across
geographic regions in cultivating the entrepreneurs who will shape
the second century of quantum innovation," said Eze Burts, director of Duality, who also was in
attendance. "As we continue exploring mutually beneficial
synergies, we recognize the opportunity to be more intentional in
our approach to build on our successes and combine resources to
accelerate the commercialization of quantum technologies."
The goal is to build meaningful and sustainable connections
between the respective ecosystems. As part of this, the LOI marks a
commitment to continue collaborations, exchanges, and discussions
on quantum entrepreneurship, commercialization, and venture support
activities. It also addresses quantum education and workforce
development as well as fundraising to support the implementation of
collaborative programs.
// About Chicago Quantum Exchange: it is a
collaborative hub that advances the science and engineering of
quantum information, connecting leading academic institutions,
national laboratories, and industry partners to drive innovation in
quantum technology."
// About Polsky Center for Entrepreneurship and
Innovation: drives venture creation and technology
commercialization within the University of
Chicago and the surrounding community. Through education,
partnerships, and new venture support, the Polsky Center advances
the knowledge and practice of entrepreneurship and accelerates the
commercialization of research.
SOURCE Distriq, Quantum Innovation Zone Sherbrooke