Alchemist Chicago is a deep tech accelerator built to take scientific breakthroughs from lab to market. It’s a partnership between Alchemist Accelerator and the University of Chicago’s Polsky Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, and it’s designed for pre-seed and seed-stage startups with founders working in areas like AI, cleantech, robotics, advanced materials, biotech, and quantum computing.

Program Details Below:

  • Alchemist Chicago Bootcamp (October 19-23): A one-week immersive experience in Chicago where up to 30 startups receive entrepreneurial training, mentorship, IP support, and access to the UChicago ecosystem.
  • Alchemist Chicago Launchpad (January 2027 – Spring 2027): 15 of the 30 startups will advance to the Alchemist Chicago Accelerator and receive a structured curriculum with personalized mentorship, investor engagement, two in-person immersions in San Francisco, and a $50K SAFE investment. Perks include $1M+ in credits and services from Microsoft, Google, and others, plus lifetime membership in Alchemist’s global founder community.
  • For Quantum Founders — Duality: Quantum startups that advance through Alchemist Chicago will also be considered for Duality, the nation’s first accelerator built exclusively for quantum startups. Duality participants will receive specialized programming, demo day opportunities, and additional benefits throughout the full year. Additional perks include:
    • Lab Space for all quantum hardware companies at the UChicago Science Incubator
    • Complimentary membership to the Chicago Quantum Exchange and UChicago Science Incubator
    • IBM Ventures perks for quantum software companies, such as IBM Quantum Systems access, technical mentorship, commercial support, and funding (selecting quantum software companies)
  • Deadline to apply: August 20th
  • APPLY HERE

**The program is open to founders anywhere in the world — no University of Chicago affiliation required.**