Japan Delegation Concludes Visit to Illinois to Advance Quantum Innovation Ties

CHICAGO, IL – A high-level Japanese delegation focused on quantum technology concluded a three-day visit to Illinois (June 8–10), strengthening ties between Japanese and U.S. leaders in the rapidly advancing field of quantum innovation.

The tour, organized by the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) and co-organized by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), Intersect Illinois, World Business Chicago (WBC), and the Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park, featured visits to key sites in the state’s quantum ecosystem.

The delegation visited the Polsky Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation at the University of Chicago and toured Hyde Park Labs to gain insight into the region’s academic–industry collaboration.

• Delegates tour the under-construction Hyde Park Labs where cutting-edge facilities are being built

The group also toured Argonne National Laboratory, a hub for federally funded quantum research and development operated by the University of Chicago. The delegation also heard presentations from innovative quantum-related companies around Chicago including EeroQ, InfleQtion, K1 Semiconductors, MemQ, PsiQuantum, qBraid, and staC12.

• Delegate group photo at Argonne National Laboratory

The visit concluded with the “Quantum Innovation Exchange” at mHUB, where leading quantum companies from both the U.S. and Japan presented their innovations in computing, sensing, and communication technologies. The event, part of JETRO’s J-Bridge initiative, aimed at fostering international business collaboration and accelerating cross-border partnerships in quantum technology.

• JETRO EVP Mio Kawada Speaks at Quantum Innovation Exchange J-Bridge Event
  

JETRO is looking to continue their relationship with the State of Illinois and City of Chicago to build on the growing momentum between the region and Japan in advanced technology sectors.