The Illinois Finance Authority (IFA) is proud to play a role in creating a future-ready economy in Illinois. IFA is excited to announce this work was recognized at the 2025 Startup Ecosystem Stars Awards in Paris, hosted by the International Chamber of Commerce and Mind the Bridge. The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity was one of only 36 organizations worldwide to receive the distinction, and the sole recipient to be awarded in all five categories. Of these five, the IFA was able to directly be involved in the following two:
- Exceptional Industry Support – Manufacturing Illinois Chips for Real Opportunity Program
- Pioneering Innovation Policy – Illinois Quantum Enterprise Zone
Earlier this year the IFA announced a successful closing on a $15 million loan to Pasqal, a French company and leader in quantum computing. With support from the State’s Manufacturing Illinois Chips for Real Opportunity Act (MICRO) Program and IFA’s loan, Pasqal will establish their U.S. headquarters as a future tenant of the Quantum and Microelectronics Park. Pasqal is forecasted to invest more than $65 million and create 50 new jobs in the quantum computing industry through this project.
The creation of the Quantum and Microelectronics Park serves as an example of Illinois’ commitment to serve as a global leader in innovation and forward-looking economic development. Through the state’s combined efforts, Illinois is positioned to emerge as a global leader in the economy of the future.