IBM’s Duality Accelerator Drives Quantum Software Growth with SQK (2023) & QodeX Quantum
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IBM is fueling the next generation of quantum software companies with new investments in startups SQK and QodeX Quantum, announced today, February 20, 2026. Selected for phase two of the Alchemist Chicago accelerator’s inaugural cohort, these early-stage companies are pioneering quantum applications in healthcare and machine learning, representing a push toward “transformative solutions for industry.” Seattle-based SQK, founded in 2023, is developing hybrid quantum-classical algorithms for medical image reconstruction, while Chicago’s QodeX Quantum, established in 2025, aims to build a platform for quantum-native AI models. According to IBM, these investments are part of a broader strategy to “accelerate the growth of the software ecosystem” and unlock the potential of quantum computers, solidifying Illinois as a global hub for quantum innovation. SQK and QodeX Quantum: Pioneering Healthcare & AI Solutions “By addressing one of healthcare’s most pressing needs, improving accuracy and efficiency in imaging, SQK is positioned to make a meaningful impact,” IBM states. IBM intends to empower QodeX with access to its quantum technology and customer ecosystems, fostering sustainable growth. This support is part of IBM’s broader strategy to accelerate the quantum software ecosystem, including a two-phase program with the University of Chicago’s Polsky Center. “Building a robust quantum ecosystem…brings the promise of useful quantum computing closer to reality,” according to IBM, with Illinois becoming a central hub for this innovation.
Alchemist Chicago Accelerator Drives Quantum Startup Growth Phase one of the program concentrated on customer discovery and proof-of-concept development, leveraging IBM’s mentorship and access to its quantum systems. Currently, the accelerator is in phase two, providing venture investment and business acceleration to selected startups, including SQK and QodeX Quantum, both participants in the inaugural cohort. Chicago’s QodeX Quantum, established in 2025, is focused on building a platform to integrate quantum computing into machine learning workflows. IBM intends to empower both companies with resources and networks, aiming to “build a robust quantum ecosystem” and accelerate the delivery of transformative solutions. The company views Illinois as a central location for quantum innovation, with the planned deployment of IBM Quantum System Two and the National Quantum Algorithm Center. At IBM, we believe quantum software is key to unlocking real-world value from quantum computers. IBM Illinois Quantum Ecosystem: IBM’s System Two & Algorithm Center The startup’s hybrid quantum-classical algorithms promise to transform diagnostics across oncology, cardiovascular health, and neuroscience, aiming to improve accuracy and efficiency in imaging. IBM intends to empower SQK with resources, mentorship, and strategic connections to facilitate this growth, recognizing the potential for meaningful impact on healthcare. This regional focus reflects IBM’s broader strategy to accelerate quantum software adoption and impact, extending beyond the Alchemist program’s two phases—customer discovery and venture investment. Source: https://www.ibm.com/new/announcements/ibm-ventures-invests-in-sqk-and-qodex-quantum-to-accelerate-quantum-innovation Tags: Quantum News There is so much happening right now in the field of technology, whether AI or the march of robots. Adrian is an expert on how technology can be transformative, especially frontier technologies. But Quantum occupies a special space. Quite literally a special space. A Hilbert space infact, haha! Here I try to provide some of the news that is considered breaking news in the Quantum Computing and Quantum tech space. Latest Posts by Quantum News: Bloomberg Reports: Quantum Startup Pasqal Seeks €200 Million to Fuel Growth February 20, 2026 Scaleway & AQT Launch European Quantum Computing Partnership, February 2026 February 20, 2026 Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) Validates Improved Resilience in Atomic Clock Technology February 20, 2026