2025 Chicago Quantum Hackathon

Unleashing Innovation at the Intersection of Quantum Computing and Creativity

Welcome to the 2025 Chicago Quantum Hackathon!

The future is quantum, and the future begins here—at the heart of Chicago. We invite you to immerse yourself in the world of quantum computing, where brilliant minds converge to explore, collaborate, and shape tomorrow. The Chicago Quantum Hackathon is more than just a competition; it’s an online festival of ideas, a celebration of ingenuity, and a launchpad for the next generation of Quantum Technological breakthroughs.

 

Event Overview

Imagine a space where the brightest students, professionals, and visionaries gather to tackle some of the most fascinating challenges in quantum information science. The 2025 Chicago Quantum Hackathon brings together individuals from universities, startups, and leading technology companies, fostering an environment where learning, experimentation, and networking thrive.

·       Location: Via the World Wide Web ( Zoom and/or Google Meet )

·       Registration: September 3 – October 2, 2025

·       Date: October 3 – November 2, 2025

·       Duration: 30 Days of intensive design, coding, creating, and collaboration

·       Open to: Students, researchers, developers, entrepreneurs, and quantum enthusiasts

 

Why Quantum?

Quantum computing is no longer a distant dream—it’s a rapidly evolving reality poised to revolutionize industries from cryptography to drug discovery, financial modeling to artificial intelligence. At the Chicago Quantum Hackathon, participants will engage with real quantum hardware, cutting-edge software frameworks, and the latest research. Whether you are a seasoned quantum developer or new to the field, this event is designed to accelerate your journey.

 

What to Expect

·       Keynote Speakers: Hear from world-renowned experts in quantum computing, including professors, industry leaders, and startup founders. Their insights will set the tone for a weekend of inspiration.

·       Hands-on Workshops: Dive into workshops covering quantum programming languages (Qiskit, Cirq, and more), quantum machine learning, cryptography, and hardware demonstrations.

·       Mentorship: Connect with mentors from leading quantum technology companies and research institutions. Get guidance, feedback, and technical help throughout the hackathon.

·       Networking Opportunities: Meet potential teammates, collaborators, and future employers. Expand your professional network while sharing your passion for quantum computing.

·       Prizes: Compete for exciting prizes, including cash awards, internships, and exclusive opportunities to present your work at major conferences.

·       Fun & Culture: Enjoy a vibrant atmosphere with music, and Chicago’s renowned hospitality.

 

Challenges

Each team will select from a series of real-world quantum problems curated by our partners and sponsors. Expect challenges such as:

·       Optimizing supply chain logistics with quantum algorithms

·       Developing secure quantum communication protocols

·       Modeling complex molecules for pharmaceuticals

·       Applying quantum computing to artificial intelligence

·       Exploring error mitigation and quantum error correction

No matter your specialization, there’s a challenge that will stretch your imagination and technical skills.  Also, we will have Seasoned Volunteers, Mentors and Advisors to help and advise you when you “ get stuck “.

 

How to Get Involved

Quantum Hackathon Hackers

Register today by sending an e-mail to williamslater@gmail.com with the Subject Line:  “Registration for the 2025 Chicago Quantum Hackathon”,  to secure your spot at the Chicago Quantum Hackathon! Whether you have a team or are looking to join one, registration is open to all skill levels. Be prepared to share a brief bio and indicate your quantum interests to help us match you with the perfect collaborators.

 

Volunteers

Volunteer opportunities are also available for those who wish to assist with event logistics, support teams, or help document the hackathon experience.  Send an e-mail to williamslater@gmail.com with the Subject Line:  “Volunteering for the 2025 Chicago Quantum Hackathon”.

 

Sponsors

We need and Welcome Sponsors for the Chicago Quantum Hackathon and to gain visibility among the quantum computing community. Partner with us to shape the future, recruit top talent, and showcase your commitment to innovation. Send an e-mail to williamslater@gmail.com with the Subject Line:  “Sponsoring for the 2025 Chicago Quantum Hackathon”.

 

Meet the Organizer

The Chicago Quantum Hackathon is organized by William Slater, who is also assembling a coalition of leading Quantum Experts—joined by a passionate team of volunteers. Our mission is to empower innovators, educate the next generation, and demonstrate the transformative power of quantum technology.  We may also have Organizers and Volunteers from

·       University of Chicago Quantum Research Group

·       Chicago Quantum Exchange

·       Local Technology Startups

·       International Quantum Computing Experts ( QSECDEF  - https://qsecdev ))

 

Schedule at a Glance

·       The hackathon registration runs from September 3, 2025 – October 2, 2025 (30 days).

·       The hackathon runs from October 3, 2025 – November 2, 2025 (30 days).

·       To Be Announced: Workshops, hacking sessions, mentorship, mini-challenges, networking events

·       To Be Announced: Final coding, project presentations, judging, awards ceremony, closing remarks

·       All projects must be submitted by 11:59 PM UTC on November 2, 2025.

·       Late submissions will not be considered.

·       The 2025 Chicago Quantum Hackathon participants and officials will meet on Zoom Conferences, according to following tentative schedule:

 

 

 

 

Date

Time

Reason

Comments

October 3, 2025

8:00 AM Central Time

Hackathon

Up to 60 minutes

October 10, 2025

8:00 AM Central Time

Follow-up

Up to 60 minutes

October 17, 2025

8:00 AM Central Time

Follow-up

Up to 60 minutes

October 24, 2025

8:00 AM Central Time

Follow-up

Up to 60 minutes

October 31, 2025

8:00 AM Central Time

Follow-up

Up to 60 minutes

November 2, 2025

8:00 AM Central Time

Follow-up

Up to 60 minutes

November 12, 2025

8:00 AM Central Time

Awards Ceremony

Up to 60 minutes

 

Join Us!

The Chicago Quantum Hackathon is your gateway to the world of quantum computing. Whether you’re new to quantum technologies or an experienced developer, this is your opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking solutions in an electrifying atmosphere. Let the Chicago Quantum Hackathon be your canvas as you paint the future with quantum possibilities.

 

Contact & Updates

For questions or partnership inquiries, please reach out to our organizer:

William Slater

williamslater@gmail.com

1-312-342-2626

slater@chicagoquantumhackathon.com

https://chicagoquantumhackathon.com

 

Stay tuned for updates on speakers, workshops, and prizes.

Be Part of the Quantum Revolution

Innovation starts with you. Bring your ideas, your skills, and your passion to the Chicago Quantum Hackathon. Collaborate, compete, and create alongside the best and brightest in quantum computing. Together, let’s unlock the potential of quantum technology and change the world, one qubit at a time.

We can’t wait to welcome you to the 2025 Chicago Quantum Hackathon!

 

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

·       Do I need prior experience in quantum computing?

·       No! All you need is curiosity, creativity, and willingness to learn. We offer workshops and mentorship throughout the event.

·       What should I bring?

·       Bring your laptop, charger, and any materials you need for hacking. We provide quantum computing resources, meals, and swag.

·       Is there a cost?

·       Registration is free for students. Professional participants pay a nominal fee, with scholarships available.

·       How are teams formed?

·       You can register with a team or as an individual. We’ll help match you with others who share your interests and goals.

·       Where can I find more information?

·       Visit our official site for details, updates, and schedule announcements.

(  Answers to these Questions and more are coming, please be patient.  )

 

 

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Author: William Slater

Version No. 1.0

Last Updated:  August 27, 2025