CO.LAB Receives LaunchTN Grant to Cultivate Quantum Commercialization Pathways Across Tennessee
•February 14, 2026
0
Why It Matters
The initiative fast‑tracks Tennessee’s transition from academic quantum research to market‑ready solutions, positioning the state as a Southeast hub for quantum innovation and economic growth.
Key Takeaways
- •$1.2M LaunchTN grant fuels statewide quantum commercialization program
- •Quantum Activation Series links universities, startups, and industry partners
- •IonQ sponsorship provides access to commercial quantum hardware and networking
- •Chattanooga highlighted as emerging quantum infrastructure hub
- •Events March 12, April 10 expand statewide quantum collaboration
Pulse Analysis
Tennessee’s quantum ambitions are gaining momentum as public‑private collaboration converges on a $1.2 million LaunchTN grant awarded to CO.LAB. The grant underwrites the Quantum Activation Series, a coordinated tour of workshops and networking events designed to bridge the gap between university labs and commercial ventures. By anchoring the first session at UT‑Chattanooga’s Wolford Center, the program signals a strategic focus on the city’s nascent quantum infrastructure, which already hosts IonQ‑backed networks and a growing community of quantum‑focused startups.
The series leverages IonQ’s sponsorship to provide participants with direct exposure to cutting‑edge quantum processors, networking hardware, and security solutions. This hands‑on access is critical for entrepreneurs seeking to validate prototypes and for researchers aiming to translate theoretical breakthroughs into marketable products. By rotating venues—from Chattanooga to Middle Tennessee State University—the initiative cultivates a statewide talent pipeline, encouraging cross‑institutional collaborations that can attract venture capital and federal research dollars.
Beyond immediate project funding, the Quantum Activation Series serves as a catalyst for broader economic development. Tennessee’s proactive stance mirrors efforts in other innovation corridors, but its early organization gives it a competitive edge in the rapidly evolving quantum economy. As more firms and investors recognize the region’s collaborative ecosystem, the state is poised to generate high‑paying jobs, spur ancillary industries, and solidify its reputation as the Southeast’s quantum hub. The sustained momentum from this grant could set a template for other states seeking to translate quantum science into tangible commercial impact.
CO.LAB Receives LaunchTN Grant to Cultivate Quantum Commercialization Pathways Across Tennessee
Tennessee is poised to become a leader in the burgeoning quantum economy thanks to a new initiative launched by CO.LAB, with support from a competitive grant awarded by Launch Tennessee. The Quantum Activation Series will convene researchers, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders across the state, beginning March 12 at The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga’s Wolford Center. This statewide program aims to translate cutting‑edge quantum research into tangible economic impact, spotlighting Chattanooga’s growing infrastructure and partnerships.
“Quantum technology is advancing quickly, and regions that organize early will define the next decade of innovation,” said CO.LAB CEO Tasia Malakasis. “Tennessee has a rare window to lead the Southeast.”
A $1.2 million grant from Launch Tennessee is bolstering CO.LAB’s Quantum Activation Series, a statewide initiative designed to accelerate the transition of quantum research into viable commercial applications. The funding, awarded through the Tennessee Technology Advancement Consortium’s Partner Program, specifically targets collaborative projects that bridge the gap between academic discovery and industry implementation. This program aims to strengthen partnerships between universities, entrepreneurs, and established businesses, while simultaneously increasing investment in research and development across the state.
The series also benefits from sponsorship by IonQ, a leading commercial quantum platform company actively involved in Tennessee’s quantum infrastructure projects, including EPB’s pioneering Quantum Network in Chattanooga. Jordan Shapiro, President and GM of quantum networking, sensing and security at IonQ, stated, “We’re excited to help support further exploration of quantum’s possibilities through the QAS.” Subsequent events are scheduled for April 10 at Middle Tennessee State University, with details for a final event to be announced.
IonQ Sponsorship Supports Tennessee Quantum Network Development
The Company Lab (CO.LAB) initiated the series with a competitive grant from Launch Tennessee, focusing on building a robust quantum ecosystem within the state, and specifically highlighting Chattanooga’s emerging role. Beyond funding, IonQ’s contribution includes leveraging its existing quantum computing, networking, and security technology deployed in projects like EPB’s pioneering Quantum Network in Chattanooga. This commitment extends to engagement with local leaders, including the Chattanooga Quantum Collective, and several universities—The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, Tennessee Tech University, and Middle Tennessee State University.
“As a public‑private partnership, we are uniquely positioned to provide direct investment, while also supporting collaboration among founders, investors, researchers, the private sector and government.”
0
Comments
Want to join the conversation?
Loading comments...