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Discovery Partners Institute
Transforming Chicago’s AI Tech Future

Focused on AI innovation and application, quantum technologies and the future of computing, the Discovery Partners Institute (DPI) is a hub connecting research, education and business development. In collaboration with city leaders, we're developing top-tier workforce talent, driving digital transformation and positioning Chicago as a leader in the global tech economy.

Our Talent Development Programs

The Pritzker Tech Talent Labs take a systemic approach to developing promising and diverse tech talent. Our programs work across the state, from K-12 schools through community colleges, universities, and lifelong learners.

Middle, High School, and Community College Students

PTTL’s Community Education unit offers a suite of programs to guide historically underrepresented students into CS and tech-related fields.

Teacher Training

Few teachers across Illinois are trained to teach Computer Science. We’re working to change that with an endorsement program for existing teachers, targeted professional development, and resources to help improve computer science instruction across the state.

City scholars

Gain a Competitive Advantage through Engineering City Scholars

Run by the Grainger College of Engineering at UIUC, this program pairs top computer science and computer engineering students with Chicago tech companies for semester-long internships. Engineering City Scholars work 20 hours per week at a paid internship with Chicago tech companies, making connections, and building a competitive career-focused resume.

Earn a competitive wage while interning with a Chicago Tech company
Advance your career through numerous networking and work opportunities – meeting tech leaders across Chicago, at their offices and at speaker events
Work with Chicago tech companies to solve current business challenges
Maintain your academic progress by taking a full course load alongside students from UIC and Illinois Tech

Apply for City Scholars Today

Profile picture for Gene E. Robinson

“When I think of this moment for AI, it seems analogous to the early days of the genomics revolution, which triggered the launch of the IGB. But AI is more like a tsunami, requiring a bold and comprehensive approach to harness its vast potential and ensure that it is used as a force for good across society. To get started, I look forward to listening and engaging with members of the DPI community, campus leaders and Chicago’s innovation and corporate ecosystem so we can together develop the vision and roadmap for DPI’s new chapter.”

Gene Robinson, Executive and CEO of Discovery Partners Institute

Invest with the Most Ambitious People and
Companies the Region Has to Offer

Our partners include leading universities on the other side of the globe; the state’s most successful entrepreneurs; and big corporations, which turn to DPI to accelerate their R&D efforts. Here are just a few of our partners.

Full Partner List & Info