The Polsky Center draws on the University of Chicago’s leading research in the sciences, robust national laboratory affiliations, and partnership with the top-ranked Booth School of Business to translate innovations from the lab into startups that bring life-saving, world-changing products and services to market.
Science and Technology Acceleration
Alchemist Chicago
Alchemist Accelerator, one of the world’s leading enterprise-focused startup accelerators, has joined forces with the University of Chicago’s Polsky Center to launch Alchemist Chicago — a new deep tech accelerator built to take scientific breakthroughs from lab to market.
Alchemist Chicago will support early-stage ventures across quantum (part of Duality), AI, cleantech, robotics, and other deep tech industries, transforming discovery into impact. It is open to global founders — no University affiliation required.
Alchemist Chicago
Alchemist Chicago will position breakthrough innovations for real-world impact, combining the strengths of Alchemist's global network and the University of Chicago ecosystem.
Duality
Duality is the first accelerator program in the US exclusively focused on supporting innovative quantum startups. The program is based in Chicago, the world’s leading hub for quantum innovation.
Programs & Funding
Polsky Center I-Corps
Supported with funding from the National Science Foundation and run by the Polsky Center, the I-Corps program is specifically designed for participants working on projects related to the STEM fields.
Innovation Fund Associates Program
Students and post-docs receive robust training and perform diligence on innovation projects.
George Shultz Innovation Fund
The George Shultz Innovation Fund invests in proof-of-concept and early business development work for viable new startups created by faculty and students.
Collaboratorium
The Collaboratorium unites UChicago students with researchers, technologists, and faculty who want to explore the commercialization opportunities and business applications of their work.
Corporate Collision
Corporate Collision provides a unique opportunity for companies to discover, connect and collaborate with some of the nation’s top quantum, data science & AI, and cleantech startups.
UChicago India Deep Tech Accelerator
The India Deep Tech Program is a structured, time-bound pilot designed to support high-potential, early-stage deep tech startups emerging from India’s leading academic and research institutions as the...
New Venture Challenge Tracks
The Edward L. Kaplan, '71, New Venture Challenge (NVC) is a top-ranked accelerator program in the nation and is run by the Polsky Center.
For Students
Student Engagement
There are various ways in which students can get involved, from conducting due diligence as an Innovation Fund Associate to leading market research as part of the I-Corps program.
For Potential Partners
Sponsorship Opportunities
Engage with entrepreneurs, explore innovative technologies, access highly-skilled talent, showcase your thought leadership, among other opportunities.
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