IBM Ventures Invests in SQK and QodeX Quantum for Specialized Software Development

IBM Ventures has announced new investments in SQK and QodeX Quantum, two early-stage startups participating in the Alchemist Chicago deep tech accelerator. These investments represent a strategic move by IBM to bolster the quantum software ecosystem by supporting founders who are transitioning theoretical breakthroughs into industrial applications. Both startups were selected from the Duality accelerator program to advance into the second phase of Alchemist Chicago, a business acceleration stage that provides venture capital and intensive mentorship for enterprise scaling.

SQK, based in Seattle, is developing hybrid quantum-classical algorithms specifically for medical image reconstruction. The company’s technology aims to improve the diagnostic accuracy and speed of imaging in fields like oncology, cardiovascular health, and neuroscience—addressing a critical computational bottleneck in modern healthcare. Meanwhile, QodeX Quantum, a Chicago-native startup, is focused on enabling quantum-native AI models. Their platform integrates quantum processing directly into machine learning workflows to enhance enterprise analytics and predictive modeling beyond the limits of classical architectures.

These investments are part of IBM's broader regional strategy in Illinois, centered on the Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park (IQMP). IBM plans to deploy its next-generation IBM Quantum System Two at the park to anchor the newly established National Quantum Algorithm Center. By providing startups like SQK and QodeX with technical access to utility-scale hardware (including the 156-qubit IBM Heron processor) and the Qiskit software stack, IBM aims to create a "front door" for industry partners to discover and deploy useful quantum algorithms for real-world enterprise challenges.

For further technical details, view the official announcement from IBM here.

February 18, 2026