IBM Venture Fund Supports QodeX Quantum and SQK
IBM Venture Fund
IBM Ventures has invested in SQK and QodeX Quantum to develop quantum software. The Alchemist Chicago accelerator chose these companies to disrupt areas including artificial intelligence and healthcare diagnostics. IBM aspires to bridge business applications and theoretical science with high-performance platforms and technical mentorship. This effort is part of a bigger plan to make Illinois a quantum innovation leader. These collaborations represent the commitment to a sustainable ecosystem where quantum advances can solve complex, practical problems.
IBM Ventures Funds AI and Healthcare Startups
IBM Ventures has invested in SQK and QodeX Quantum, two unique companies, to accelerate quantum computing research. This planned commitment of money and resources shows IBM's belief that, while hardware drives exponential growth, specialized software unlocks practical benefit.
IBM's quantum inventor support and internal research, including Qiskit. Entrepreneurs use IBM to apply theoretical research to industry.
SQK Promises Diagnostic Transformation
Recently backed projects include Seattle-based SQK, formed in 2023. SQK's hybrid quantum-classical methods for medical picture reconstruction are intriguing. This method solves the problem of more accurate and effective diagnostic imaging, a major healthcare challenge.
IBM invested in SQK because it could revolutionize neurology, cardiovascular health, and cancer diagnoses. Quantum-enhanced processing of complex medical images may help doctors detect diseases earlier and more accurately. IBM will provide SQK with financing, technical resources, strategic relationships, and mentoring to build their business.
QodeX Quantum Inc.: Quantum-Native AI Rises
SQK focuses on biological and therapeutic improvements, whereas Chicago-based QodeX Quantum pursues artificial intelligence. QodeX, founded in 2025, aims to create quantum-native AI models.
The company is developing a quantum-machine learning framework. This combination could transform enterprise analytics and business decision-making. QodeX wants to evaluate data and optimize problems that typical binary systems cannot manage by making AI “quantum-native.” IBM is providing QodeX with its huge client communities and top quantum technologies to ensure its long-term growth.
The Quantum Ecosystem Center, Illinois
The firms chosen are closely related to IBM's Illinois regional strategy. Duality quantum startup accelerator created SQK and QodeX Quantum, which were selected for the Alchemist Chicago accelerator's first cohort's second stage.
IBM and the Polsky Center at the University of Chicago built this pipeline. The alliance supports a rigorous two-stage development program:
Phase 1 covers startup basics like recruiting consumers, creating a proof of concept, and using IBM's quantum systems for technical validation. Phase 2 includes a six-month company acceleration program and real venture investment to boost business traction and finance.
Intended implementation of IBM Quantum System Two in Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park supports regional focus. With the National Quantum Algorithm Center, the area is becoming a global quantum innovation hotspot.
Building a Solid Future
Emily Fontaine, IBM's Global Head of Venture Capital, said these investments are part of a “robust quantum ecosystem” plan. IBM expects software developers and long-term regional research alliances will enable firms worldwide grasp quantum computing's promise.
IBM is seeking entrepreneurs using quantum technology to solve real-world problems in the worldwide IT community. Agile startups like SQK and QodeX and established giants like IBM may combine to revolutionize technology for decades as quantum technology progresses from lab trials to industry-specific solutions.
IBM welcomes quantum innovators to contact them to discuss how they may accelerate business growth through this large ecosystem of technical help and venture investment.