The tech world is abuzz with the recent announcement of a strategic partnership between Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) and The Company Lab (Co.Lab) in Chattanooga. This collaboration aims to accelerate the commercialization of advanced technologies and support the growth of deep tech startups in the region.
The signing of the memorandum of understanding marks a significant milestone in the journey towards establishing Chattanooga as a national hub for technology innovation. The partnership leverages the city’s robust digital infrastructure, academic research capabilities, and vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem to transform scientific breakthroughs into market-ready products.
The Vision Behind the Partnership
The collaboration is designed to create a seamless pathway for entrepreneurs to access ORNL’s cutting-edge research, intellectual property, and state-of-the-art facilities. By connecting startups with the laboratory’s resources, the partnership aims to foster the development of innovative solutions in advanced energymobility and quantum technologies.
Tasia Malakasis CEO of Co.Lab, emphasized the unique advantages that Chattanooga offers. “Chattanooga is uniquely positioned to become a national destination for technology commercialization, particularly in quantum energy and transportation,” she said. The partnership extends the commercialization journey for founders who are ready to scale their ventures and build enduring companies in Tennessee.
Building on Success
The partnership builds on the success of ORNL’s existing Innovation Crossroads program, a two-year entrepreneurship initiative that pairs company founders with researchers. Over 50 companies have participated in the program, with more than half remaining in Tennessee. One notable success story is Qubit Engineering a quantum startup headquartered in Knoxville that has significantly benefited the local community.
Shaun Gleason director of partnerships for ORNL, highlighted the importance of creating an environment where innovators can thrive. “The communities that lead are those that create an environment where innovators can access talent, infrastructure, capital, and those partnerships turn into thriving businesses together,” he said.
Driving Economic Growth
The partnership is expected to create higher-paying jobs in Chattanooga and drive the local economy forward. Chattanooga Mayor Tim Kelly expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative, stating that it addresses the need for scientific and knowledge economy jobs in the region. “This is it,” he said, referring to the partnership as a breakthrough for Chattanooga.
Janet Rehberg EPB president and CEO-elect, underscored the role of EPB’s infrastructure in supporting innovation. The utility’s community-wide fiber network and self-healing power grid serve as a platform for advancements in quantum technology and commercial quantum networking. “All of this is about positioning Chattanooga, Hamilton County, and Tennessee to benefit from one of the most transformative industries that will be coming for decades, and that’s quantum technology,” she said.
The collaboration also aligns with the broader goals of fostering new venture creation and strengthening Tennessee’s leadership in advanced technologies. U.S. Rep. Chuck Fleischmann emphasized the importance of continuing to support scientific research to bring new opportunities to the state.
As the partnership takes shape, it is poised to create a quantum ecosystem that brings together research, industries, education, and entrepreneurs. This ecosystem will not only drive economic growth but also position Chattanooga as a leader in the global tech landscape.
