July 23, 2026

Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park Announces Partnership with Q-STAR to Strengthen Collaboration Between Quantum Ecosystems in Japan and Illinois

Memorandum of Understanding Creates Framework for Connectivity and Mutual Benefit Between the Two Ecosystems

CHICAGO – Today, the Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park (IQMP) and the Quantum STrategic industry Alliance for Revolution (Q-STAR) announced a new partnership to strengthen collaboration between Japanese companies and Illinois’ quantum ecosystem. The memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the two organizations builds on Illinois and Japan’s longstanding commitment to advancing the commercialization of quantum technology.

Harley Johnson, CEO of the IQMP, and Hirofumi Mori, Chair of the Global Consortium Alliances Working Group at Q-STAR, signed the MOU today at the Global Quantum Forum in Chicago.

“The Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park is a place where the world’s quantum companies can build, grow, and develop the technology that has the potential to unlock solutions to the world’s most complex problems. This new partnership with Q-STAR is an important step towards that vision,” said Harley Johnson, CEO of the Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park. “We’re proud to open the door for Japan’s leading companies to plug into our thriving ecosystem and to advance the longstanding collaboration between the state and Japan.”

Under the MOU, IQMP and Q-STAR will facilitate access to funding, networks, and investment resources for quantum startups and small and medium enterprises in both countries, while identifying opportunities for joint research, technology co-development, and industrial supply chain growth. The partnership will also connect Japanese and Illinois-based companies, universities, and research institutions to pursue joint projects and business development opportunities.

“Quantum technology is entering a new phase where global collaboration is essential to accelerate commercialization and create real-world impact. Through this partnership with IQMP, we look forward to strengthening connections between Japan’s and Illinois’ quantum ecosystems and creating new opportunities for companies, researchers, and entrepreneurs on both sides. Together, we will help advance innovation, foster business development, and contribute to the growth of the global quantum industry.”— Taro Shimada, Chair,  Q-STAR

Founded in 2021 by 24 Japanese companies to create new opportunities in quantum technology, Q-STAR has grown to more than 160 member companies, including large corporations such as Toshiba, NEC, NTT, and Hitachi, as well as early-stage and scaling start-ups, small and medium-sized enterprises, and academic institutions. Q-STAR’s mission is to build a society where quantum technology benefits everyone by promoting the globalization of quantum, supporting business opportunity creation, and widely disseminating relevant information.

QUOTE FROM ILEDC, “ said Christy George, President and CEO of the Illinois Economic Development Corporation (Illinois EDC). 

Illinois and Japan have built a longstanding collaboration centered on quantum technology. In March 2026, the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) organized a delegation to Tokyo, which included representatives from the IQMP, the Illinois Economic Development Corporation (Illinois EDC), the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), IQMP anchor tenant PsiQuantum, and others. In June 2025, a Japanese delegation came to Chicago to meet with DCEO, IQMP, ILEDC and others regarding the latest innovations in quantum computing. Governor Pritzker led a similarly-focused delegation trip to Japan back in October 2024. Illinois EDC JETRO worked with IQMP and Q-STAR to strengthen ties between the Illinois and Japanese quantum ecosystems, helping to advance the collaboration that led to today’s agreement. 

JETRO QUOTE

The IQMP, which broke ground in Fall 2025, is a 128-acre development that provides infrastructure and resources to support the development and commercialization of quantum technologies, hardware, software, and applications.

The Global Quantum Forum, hosted by Illinois EDC and P33, is an annual international conference dedicated to exploring quantum’s commercialization and its impact on policy, industry, and society. From July 22-23, 800 quantum enthusiasts gathered in Chicago to explore this year’s theme, “Solving Grand Challenges.”