Governor Quinn Announces Illinois Manufacturing Lab

Governor Pat Quinn joined officials from the University of Illinois and UI LABS to launch the Illinois Manufacturing Lab (IML) – a key initiative to increase the competitiveness, productivity and profitability of Illinois’ manufacturers. Proposed by the Governor in his 2013 State of the State address, the IML is launching its initial efforts with pilot projects at ten Illinois companies to identify and solve advanced manufacturing challenges. Continue reading

Message from the Director of Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity

As we bring 2013 to a close, I would like to take a moment to review DCEO’s successes and reiterate our continued commitment to creating jobs and economic opportunities for all Illinoisans. Early this year, Illinois was ranked the fifth best location in the nation for corporate expansion by Site Selection Magazine, one of the most prestigious and notable publications of its kind.  Topping that was Chicago, landing the #1 spot in the nation for Foreign Direct Investment, while Illinois continues to be the number one state in the Midwest for exports.  Continue reading

Illinois Coal Exports Set Record, Fuel Economic Growth

Illinois coal output rose last year against the tide of shrinking U.S. production, as global demand for Illinois coal soared. The report and its recommendations support Governor Quinn’s five-year-plan to double exports by 2014 and to continue providing an export-friendly business climate in Illinois. “Illinois coal is in high demand overseas and we have the resources and infrastructure to take advantage of this opportunity for economic growth, Governor Quinn said. —Our rail lines and river ports, which we continue to improve under the Illinois Jobs Now! capital construction program, give us a unique export advantage over other states in the region.” Continue reading