Alchemist Chicago, a premier early-stage startup accelerator focused on foundational technology, is a partnership between Alchemist and the University of Chicago’s Polsky Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation.
Alchemist Chicago serves as a bridge to the University of Chicago’s world-class research institutions and talent networks. Strategically located near legacy-industry hubs ripe for disruption, it connects deep tech founders to Silicon Valley’s best practices, capital, and global networks, positioning them to transform scientific breakthroughs into market-defining companies.
Up to 30 startups will be selected to participate in Phase 1, led by Polsky Center, from which a select group of up to 10 will be chosen to continue to Phase 2, Alchemist Accelerator’s flagship global program.
The Polsky Center draws on the University of Chicago’s leading research in the sciences, national laboratory affiliations, and partnership with the top-ranked Booth School of Business to help startups reduce risk as they position their innovations for real-world impact.
We strongly encourage quantum technology startups to apply to Alchemist Chicago. The program brings together tailored support built for the unique challenges inherent in building a quantum company. From strategic partnerships with IBM to mentorship with industry leaders, commercialization pathways, and investor networks, we encourage you to join the program that has built successes such as Rigetti, BosonQ, and qBraid -- the program that gives quantum founders the resources and connections to scale faster.
Key Industries Include:
Quantum – Backed by Duality, the nation’s first quantum accelerator
AI Infrastructure
Robotics and Physical AI
Cleantech
Advanced Materials
Advanced Manufacturing
Agtech/Foodtech
Spacetech
Other Deep Tech Industries
$50K SAFE for Phase 2.
Phase 1: Validate and Build Traction
Duration: 7 weeks (October-December 2025)
Cohort Size: Up to 30 startups
Get laser-focused on customer validation and early traction. Through expert modules led by the University of Chicago and Alchemist faculty, you’ll gain the tools and support to advance real-world proof points. A travel grant will be provided for a one-week immersion in Chicago.
Up to 10 venture-backable and commercialization-ready teams will be invited to continue to Phase 2.
Phase 2: Get Fundraising-Ready
Duration: Enrollment in the 6-month Alchemist Flagship Accelerator
Cohort Size: Up to 10 startups
Unlock full access to Alchemist Accelerator’s flagship program — including curated investor intros, mentorship, and a spot at Demo Day. Founders can optionally spend time in Silicon Valley to build investor relationships and prepare to raise.
$50K SAFE for Phase 2.
Mentors of accelerator can be found here
Portfolio of companies funded can be found here
The backers across Alchemist's funds include Analog Devices, BASF, Cisco Systems, DFJ, Ericsson, Foundation Capital, GE Ventures, Johnson Controls(Tyco), Juniper Networks, Khosla Ventures, Mayfield Ventures, Next47 (Siemens),Salesforce, Sapphire Ventures, USVP, Volvo, and Yellow Services.
We chose these backers because they believe strongly in the vision of supporting the best enterprise founders globally. While as an Alchemist founder you may engage them at any time, you have no obligation to accept investment from or sign customer contracts with our backers.
Chicago, Illinois, United States
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