Chattanooga has a history of embracing new technology before it becomes mainstream. In 2010, the city made headlines with community-wide gig-speed internet. Now, it’s stepping into the next frontier. EPB has launched the IonQ Forte Enterprise quantum computer at the EPB Quantum Center, making Chattanooga the first city in the United States where commercial quantum computing and quantum networking operate under one roof. Businesses, researchers, and innovators will be able to develop, test, and deploy quantum technologies locally through partnerships with the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga and Vanderbilt University. EPB Quantum Computing officially opens for business starting this month, with UTC already signed on as its first customer and Vanderbilt preparing its first project.

The impact extends far beyond technology. Eight graduate researchers selected as EPB Quantum Computing Fellows will use the system to help improve the local power grid through a $4 million grant from the National Institute of Standards and Technology. Major investments are already taking shape across the region. IonQ plans to invest $15 million in a new research center, Vanderbilt is developing a quantum institute expected to support roughly 250 researchers and staff, and UTC plans to add up to 240 faculty, staff, and students. Local leaders estimate the initiative could generate as much as $1.1 billion in economic impact over the next decade. Future workforce development is also part of the plan, with the new Energy and Quantum Industries Academy expected to serve about 400 high school students each year beginning in 2028. Business leaders interested in learning more can explore opportunities through EPB Quantum.

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