Chattanooga Will Host Quantum in Business Conference
The EPB event scheduled for Oct. 1 gathers executives to explore the commercial potential of quantum technology.
Updated on Sept. 24, 2026 in Quantum Computing
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EPB will host its inaugural Quantum in Business conference on Oct. 1 at the Westin hotel in Chattanooga. The sold-out event features experts and business leaders discussing the practical applications of quantum computing.
Why it matters
The conference aims to educate regional business leaders on the utility of quantum technology to prepare them for its integration into commercial sectors. This effort builds on the existing capabilities of the EPB Quantum Center, which combines computing and networking infrastructure.
The EPB Quantum Center provides the infrastructure for commercial quantum computing and networking, supporting the IonQ Forte Enterprise system. The upcoming studio will run for 12 weeks to foster innovation.
The players
EPB
An electric power and telecommunications utility based in Chattanooga that operates the local quantum computing center.
Co.Lab
A regional organization that supports business development and is set to launch a quantum commercialization studio.
IonQ
A Maryland-based quantum computing company that manufactured the Forte Enterprise system utilized by the EPB.
The details
The conference serves as a platform for politicians, quantum scientists, and business executives to bridge the gap between abstract quantum mechanics and tangible corporate benefits. Following the conference, Co.Lab will launch a 12-week commercialization studio in November to further develop regional quantum expertise.
Timeline
June 2026: EPB announced the upcoming Quantum in Business conference.
Oct. 1, 2026: The inaugural conference takes place at the Westin hotel.
November 2026: Co.Lab will launch a 12-week quantum commercialization studio.
2035: McKinsey projects quantum computing will create $2.7 trillion in global economic value.
The Tech Race
This regional focus reflects the broader transition from experimental quantum science to commercialized industry applications. It positions Chattanooga within an emerging national network of hubs competing to adopt quantum technology before it reaches widespread market adoption.
While the conference is sold out, local businesses should monitor the outcomes of the Co.Lab studio for future opportunities to integrate quantum workflows. These developments could eventually improve computational efficiency and data processing capabilities for regional firms.
The takeaway
Quantum computing is shifting from theoretical research to a core component of future business strategy. Executives should focus on understanding these capabilities now to remain competitive as the technology matures toward mass adoption.
What happens next
Co.Lab will initiate its 12-week quantum commercialization studio in November 2026 to support local businesses in developing new technologies.
Further reading
For more on the rapidly changing field of advanced physics, explore the Quantum Computing section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Timesfreepress.
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