A detailed report on the region’s assets, opportunities, and growth areas.

Together, we’re Greater. Choose DuPage has teamed up with World Business Chicago and six other regional county partners to bring to you the Greater Chicagoland Economic Partnership Asset Report. This report is a testament to the collective efforts of partners, stakeholders, and visionaries who believe in the transformative power of regional collaboration known as the Greater Chicagoland Economic Partnership. The report offers in-depth insights and showcases the myriad of assets that make the Chicagoland region a global hub for business. 

What makes Greater Chicagoland a Greater place to do business?

According to the new report, it’s our:

• Size: Chicagoland is the nation’s third largest economy, with $835B in annual productivity and more than 4.9 million workers.  
• Diversity: With a wide breadth of industries, from manufacturing and technology to logistics and more, Chicagoland offers the most diverse economy in the U.S.
• Industry: We’re home to the most diverse manufacturing ecosystem in the U.S., positioning our region for innovation while attracting investment and talent.
• Innovation: In Chicagoland, our diverse blend of startups, established industries, and research institutions collaborate to push industries forward.
• Resilience: With a diverse economy, supportive social systems, and a strategic environmental policy, Chicagoland is ready to adapt to changing conditions and lead the world of tomorrow.
• Cost: Here, you can do more with less. Our region has more affordable real estate and cost of living compared to similarly sized, globally connected metro areas.

For a deeper understanding of the GCEP and its mission, visit www.worldbusinesschicago.com/gcep.

For more information about doing business in DuPage County, Illinois, visit: https://www.choosedupage.com/ready/ or contact Choose DuPage today.

The Chicagoland region stands on the precipice of becoming a global center for quantum technologies, suggests a report released today by World Business Chicago. The transformative impact of quantum technology is expected to outpace current computational capabilities and revolutionize sectors like automotive, finance, life sciences, and beyond.

Read more in World Business Chicago’s Chicago Business Bulletin, “Chicagoland’s Quantum Ecosystem” published in partnership with the Chicago Quantum Exchange and P33 Chicago.

“The motivation behind this report was understanding that quantum, often likened to science fiction, is very real,” expressed Robin Ficke, SVP, Research, World Business Chicago. ” Though quantum applications are still nascent, the strides made by local scientists and innovators are turning heads in the investment and corporate sectors. This report illuminates the region’s opportunity to lead quantum technology’s future.

The Research Center at World Business Chicago delves deeply into the strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities of both established and emergent industries. Today’s quantum ecosystem report provides an unbiased glimpse into the region’s quantum tech landscape and its broader implications in the U.S. and world.

“We join Governor Pritzker and other key stakeholders, in a commitment to see Illinois and the Chicagoland region become a global quantum hub,” said Michael Fassnacht, President & CEO, World Business Chicago. “Given our diversified economy, industrial stronghold, top-tier education system, vibrant startup culture, and strong pipeline of leading researchers, scientists and engineers, we’re not just embracing the quantum shift—we are leading it.”

“Quantum technologies have the potential to transform everyday life across multiple sectors, and the Midwest region is poised to become the heart of the nation’s quantum economy, thanks in large part to the deep cross-sector partnerships we have cultivated here,” said David Awschalom, Liew Family Professor of Molecular Engineering at the University of Chicago and Director of the Chicago Quantum Exchange. “Collaboration among academia, industry, and government labs have attracted substantial investment to the region and contribute to the strong quantum ecosystem reflected in this report.”

World Business Chicago’s Quantum Ecosystem report highlights increasing investments in the region’s quantum ecosystem, why the Chicagoland region is one of the top three best-positioned in the U.S. for supplying the quantum workforce of the future, details of Illinois’ status as a frontrunner in active quantum patents, leading all Midwestern states; and other reasons why the region is a magnet for quantum startups, companies, and leaders of industry. Other findings include:

• Billions in Quantum’s Wake – Quantum startups globally have attracted an impressive $9.8 billion since 2020, a leap from the prior $1.4 billion over 2014-2019. Illinois has captured $33.2 million since 2017, solidifying its lead for quantum ventures, particularly those focused on software. This can be seen not only in the data but in the personal stories of researchers, startup founders and students who have come to the region for the richness of the quantum ecosystem. Six of those stories are detailed today in a report out by the Chicago Quantum Exchange, including those of three startups that have attracted millions of dollars in public and private investment: EeroQ, which moved its headquarters to Chicago in 2022; Super.tech, a University of Chicago spin-out was acquired in 2022 by Infleqtion (formerly ColdQuanta); and Quantopticon, which is in the process of moving its headquarters to Chicago.
• Chicagoland: A Quantum Magnet – The region’s quantum ecosystem is more than its startups. Over 40 Fortune 500 companies, leading universities, research labs, and incubators also populate the region. This synergy of tech behemoths, academia, research, and innovative startups positions Chicagoland as a dominant quantum hub.
• Educational Epicenter – Including nearby quantum centers in Urbana–Champaign and Madison, Wisconsin, the Midwest region is the nation’s third-largest quantum education hub. The Chicagoland region is second in spinning out the most quantum-focused doctoral graduates.

Looking Ahead

Illinois, and the Chicagoland region, is on the precipice of becoming a global hub for quantum development. Today scientists are actively experimenting on ways to increase computer speed, improve cryptography, curate new ways to detect diseases, and more.

“Quantum is ours to win. Every dollar invested, every research paper published, and every startup incubated brings us closer to seeing Illinois and the Chicagoland region a global epicenter of quantum technology,” said Brad Henderson, CEO, P33 Chicago.

SOURCE: World Business Chicago

Chicagoland’s Quantum Ecosystem, Executive Summary 

DOWNLOAD THE FULL REPORT

Chicago is not Silicon Valley: our uniqueness lies in fostering a distinct and diverse technological ecosystem, where the collective business community carves out its own path to innovation. Chicago’s advantage lies in its diverse range of industries, which span finance, healthcare, manufacturing, and more. This diversity allows for cross-pollination of ideas, especially as quantum companies collaborate with various industry sectors, leading to innovative solutions that cater to specific, real-world challenges. Chicago’s rare environment enables rapid commercialization and practical application of quantum technologies.

In this issue of the Chicago Business Bulletin, the World Business Chicago Research Center will illustrate Chicagoland’s advantages in the quantum industry across a number of metrics, including its diverse industrial base, but also academic and research institutions, private and public investments, and intellectual property production.

Key Findings:

• Chicago’s diverse industry base creates a wealth of real-world challenges and applications for quantum companies to address. Chicago is one of the top metro areas in the US for industries — like high tech, IT-producing, and IT-using industries — that most often acquire new technology as part of their innovation strategies.
• Within the US, the broader Chicago region (including the Chicago, Urbana-Champaign, and Madison, Wisconsin metro areas) has the third highest number of universities engaged in quantum research activities. With respect to actual academic programs, this region has the third most universities with quantum-related academic program completions.
• Global investment in quantum startups has increased dramatically since 2020; Illinois is a leader in US-based investments. Illinois has the second most deals made by quantum startups after California. Investment in Illinois and Midwestern quantum startups is more likely to be captured by software-focused firms, compared to hardware-focused firms.
• Illinois has a diverse, well-balanced distribution of quantum patents across sub-niches, especially compared to other high-performing states with significant quantum presences. Notably, 47.8% of Illinois’ quantum patents fall under quantum devices, while 14.5% are in quantum optics and quantum information processing. In contrast, California — the largest quantum patent producer — has over 70% of its patents in quantum devices and only 5% in quantum optics and quantum information processing.

Fact Sheet

• Chicagoland offers more than 40 quantum-related corporate, government, academic, and non-profit partners.
• The Chicago metro area’s high tech industry is poised to grow by 15% between 2022 and 2026.
• Chicago Quantum Exchange partner universities rank second in the nation for number of quantum related Ph.D. graduates.
• Illinois quantum startups have raised $33.2 million through 27 deals.
• With 1,273 active quantum patents, Illinois ranks fifth in the nation.

DOWNLOAD THE FULL REPORT

WHAT A GREEN BUSINESS IS & THE BENEFITS OF BECOMING ONE

• Waste Reduction: Minimizing waste isn’t just ecologically beneficial; it helps create tangible cost savings both now and in the future.
• Pollution Prevention: A steadfast commitment to pollution prevention directly contributes to a healthier environment and safer communities.
• Trimming Utility Usage and Costs: Smart energy practices directly translate into reduced utility bills, while also supporting broader energy conservation efforts.
• Engaging Employees in Sustainability Efforts: Involving staff in sustainability initiatives nurtures teamwork, camaraderie and shared responsibility.
• Promoting Healthy Workplaces: Sustainability practices extend to fostering healthier indoor environments, which, in turn, boost employee productivity and satisfaction.
• A Journey of Continuous Improvement: Green businesses are inherently committed to an ongoing journey of innovation and enhancement of their sustainable practices.

HOW THE PROCESS WORKS

1. GET ASSESSED: 

2. RECEIVE YOUR PLAN: 

3. TAKE ACTION: 

4. RECEIVE INCENTIVES AND CERTIFICATION: 

GET STARTED

Top Office Leases Recognized for Chicago

Published by: CoStar Research | August 2, 2023 

Prominent office leases signed by Molson Coors, Antares Capital and Raymond James negotiated by top dealmakers from Riverside Investment & Development and Cushman & Wakefield are among the second-quarter office leases recognized by CoStar.

As big-ticket items involving sizable investments, commercial property transactions often have a wider impact within the community. CoStar will recognize the largest leases completed each quarter and the dealmakers who made them happen in their respective markets.

Here are the Chicago office leases selected as the second-quarter 2023 winners of the CoStar Power Broker Quarterly Deal Awards:

Molson Coors
320 S. Canal St., Chicago, IL
Space Leased: 83,848 SF
Deal Type: New Lease
Size: 1,497,211 SF

Molson Coors, the wholesaler of popular beverages including Blue Moon, Coors, Miller and Topo Chico, finalized a lease in the second quarter to move its headquarters across the Chicago River to the BMO Tower in 2024. The beer giant is slated to occupy the 34th through 36th floors of the tower developed and owned by Riverside Investment & Development. The deal is the latest example of the so-called flight to quality across the country, with tenants moving into newer, higher-end spaces. For Molson Coors, the never-used space at BMO Tower is less than half the roughly 167,000 square feet it now leases just across the river about a block east at 250 S. Wacker Drive.

Antares Capital
320 S. Canal St., Chicago, IL
Space Leased: 79,657 SF
Deal Type: New Lease

Set to join Molson Coors is Antares Capital, a financial services firm that signed a rare relocation and expansion at BMO Tower. The company currently occupies 69,646 square feet at 500 W. Monroe St., though it will occupy nearly 80,000 square feet when it moves to BMO Tower. The skyscraper opened last year along Union Station and includes a 1.5-acre, privately owned park along the west side of the building. It is now more than 70% leased.

Raymond James
120 S. Riverside Plaza, Chicago, IL 
Space Leased: 58,196 SF
Deal Type: New Lease

Investment banking giant Raymond James is opening a new Chicago office after signing a lease at 120 S. Riverside Plaza. Owned by Ivanhoe Cambridge for a decade, the 22-story tower includes a recently renovated lobby, two redeveloped plazas, a fitness center, tenant lounges and on-site restaurants. Other tenants in the building include Husch Blackwell, Home Partners of America and Levenfeld Pearlstein.

Sikich
1415 W. Diehl Road, Naperville, IL
Space Leased: 42,895 SF
Deal Type: Renewal

National information technology management firm Sikich signed a lease for a new office at Hub 1415. The Naperville office is the company’s headquarters and houses its specialized training and development program for employees, dubbed Sikich University. Hub 1415 is a Class-A office building consisting of two properties connected by a skyway. The building also offers a full-service cafeteria, on-site parking, multiple tenant lounges and outdoor areas.

Barstool Sports
400 N. Noble St., Chicago, IL 
Space Leased: 39,251 SF
Deal Type: New Lease
Size: 58,765 SF

Sports and pop culture media company Barstool Sports signed a deal to occupy 39,251 square feet at The Bishop building in Chicago. Given Barstool Sports’ youthful brand image, the company requires an office environment that fosters creativity, collaboration and innovation. The new location will include a full-size basketball court, a golf simulator, music studios and other space for media content creation. NanoGraf leasing the remainder of the building for its new corporate headquarters.

HNTB
1 S. Wacker Drive, Chicago, IL 
Space Leased: 32,176 SF
Deal Type: New Lease

HNTB signed a lease in One South Wacker where the engineering firm will open its first office in Illinois. HNTB operates in 34 states and primarily focuses on infrastructure needs. One South Wacker, also known as OSW, opened in 1982 and is home to such tenants as Invenergy, Rise Interactive, Charles River Associates and Avison Young. The 601W Cos. owns the Helmut Jahn-designed building.

Insight Global
353 N. Clark St., Chicago, IL 
Space Leased: 27,043 SF
Deal Type: Renewal

Insight Global renewed its offices in Mesirow’s headquarters building at 353 N. Clark St. in River North. The staffing agency has leased space in the building since 2014, the same year building owner Heitman acquired the property for $715 million.

Helix Logistics
227 W. Monroe St., Chicago, IL 
Space Leased: 25,632 SF
Deal Type: New Lease

Helix Logistics provides logistics and transportation services to clients. The company will open a new office at The Franklin after reaching a deal with building owner Tishman Speyer for the 42nd floor of the 60-story tower. The high-rise was built in 1989 in the city’s Loop business district and is also home to Eversheds Sutherland, AllianceBernstein, Madison Capital Funding and Steptoe.

Roetzel & Andress
70 W. Madison St., Chicago, IL 
Space Leased: 23,909 SF
Deal Type: Sublease

National law firm Roetzel & Andress has elected to move to a larger office at 70 W. Madison St. in downtown Chicago. The firm leased 23,909 square feet on the 30th floor for five years. Moving to a larger office indicates the firm’s intention to expand its presence in downtown Chicago and grow in key practice areas, including its recently added cybersecurity practice. The firm’s previous Chicago office was at 30 N. LaSalle St.

Kone
3333 Warrenville Road, Lisle, IL 
Space Leased: 22,238 SF
Deal Type: New Lease

Kone signed a lease in Central Park of Lisle where the Finnish elevator company will establish its U.S. headquarters. GFH Financial Group, an Islamic investment bank previously known as Gulf Finance House, owns the Broadcom-anchored building.

For more information about available office space in DuPage County, IL please contact Choose DuPage.

World Business Chicago recently published a new research report, Innovation in Manufacturing & Chicagoland’s Advantages. This comprehensive report delves into the transformative impact of innovation on the Chicago region’s thriving $99 billion manufacturing industry, which as of 2022, stands as the nation’s second largest.

As the manufacturing sector faces growing competition in an increasingly globalized economy, the industry has embraced innovative technologies and processes to maintain its leadership position. With over 410,000 employees working in the Chicago region’s manufacturing sector, the adoption of tools such as automation, artificial intelligence, and the Internet of Things (IoT) has revolutionized operational efficiency and productivity across the 12,000+ manufacturing firms in the area.

One key highlight of the report is the collaboration between manufacturers, suppliers, and academic institutions to foster innovation within the sector. This cooperative approach has led to the formation of robust innovation ecosystems that empower the industry with a distinct competitive advantage.

Key Findings from the Report include:

• Diverse Innovators: The report reveals that for every high-tech manufacturer engaged in innovation, there are three fabricated metal manufacturers actively innovating. This indicates a widespread commitment to advancing manufacturing processes and technologies across the sector.
• Knowledge Exchange: Most manufacturers in the Chicagoland region rely on their customers or suppliers to provide specialized knowledge that cannot be acquired or developed in-house. This collaborative approach encourages knowledge sharing and promotes open innovation initiatives.
• Regional Advantage: Chicagoland offers manufacturers a unique edge, as they can access a robust ecosystem of suppliers and customers within the region. Astonishingly, manufacturers in Chicago source nearly 50% of their inputs in-region, further solidifying the area’s status as a manufacturing hub.
• Diverse Government Support: Nearly half of the manufacturers using government support for innovation reported using programs other than tax incentives or credits. This highlights the diversity of initiative available to foster innovation in the region.
• Illinois as an Innovation Hub: The report underscores Illinois’ prominence as a hub for innovation, ranking #5 in the U.S. for its contributions to the advancement of technology and manufacturing.

“The World Business Chicago’s Research Center is excited to present this report that delves into what manufacturers need in order to successfully innovate and the critical role of innovation in driving the success of the manufacturing industry in the Chicagoland region,” said Robin Ficke, SVP, Research, World Business Chicago. “The findings underscore the impact of our dynamic and collaborative manufacturing ecosystem, positioning the region as a key player in shaping the future of the manufacturing landscape.”

The Innovation in Manufacturing & Chicagoland’s Advantages report showcases the regional commitment, by and through the Greater Chicagoland Economic Partnership, to staying at the forefront of technological advancements to drive sustainable growth for the region’s manufacturing industry.

To access the full report and learn more about the innovative strides made by the Chicagoland manufacturing sector, please visit [https://infograph.venngage.com/pl/ifI7Kt8rVAc]

Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) recently highlighted Illinois’ top rankings in CNBC’s 2023 Top States for Business publication – an annual report that ranks states based on 10 broad categories of competitiveness. This year, Illinois ranked in the top 10 in the nation for four categories of competitiveness, and six categories in the top 20. Illinois is ranked 17th best state for business, rising ahead two spots from the 2022 ranking and up from 30th in the 2019 ranking.

Highlights include:

• #2 in the nation for infrastructure (up from #3 in ‘22)
• #2 in the nation for education (up from #6 in ‘22)
• #6 in the nation for access to capital (up from #8 in ‘22)
• #9 in the nation for cost of living (up from #20 in ‘22)

“I couldn’t be prouder that we’re outpacing more and more states, and now CNBC has ranked Illinois number two in the nation for both infrastructure and education,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “Over the last four years, our Rebuild Illinois Capital Plan has been modernizing our transportation systems. Our higher education institutions have become more affordable and have risen in college rankings. We’ve invested historic levels of funding into early childhood education and K-12 schools which now rank 6th in the nation by US News and World Report. Illinois is improving our economic prospects by focusing on the long term. Here’s to continued improvement in 2024.”

“Illinois stands out as one of the best states in the nation, and as leaders, we know it is the people who make our state so great,” said Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton. “Since day one, our administration has been committed to the work that ensures Illinoisans can thrive so we can go even further together. By investing in our schools, infrastructure, and businesses, we are championing an Illinois that soars to greater heights.”

Through the landmark $45 billion Rebuild Illinois initiative, Illinois has made unprecedented investments to modernize roads, bridges, airports, and ports – resulting in:

• The complete renovation of more than 5,300 miles of highway and almost 500 bridges
• More than 750 accessibility and safety improvements

Illinois has long been known for its superior infrastructure, boasting top freight access, miles of interstate highway, and accessibility to 80 percent of locations in the continental U.S. within four hours through Illinois’ superior airports. Over the next six years, Illinois will invest an additional $13.96 billion to continue its full-scale infrastructure revitalization that will enhance all modes of transportation across the state.

Additionally, the Pritzker Administration has prioritized sustained year over year investments in education from cradle to career. Most recently passing Smart Start Illinois, building upon the state’s strong educational foundation by ensuring students have access to high-quality early education for generations to come. Governor Pritzker’s administration has overseen the largest early childhood investments in state history, totaling in over $1 billion to support early childhood care and education. Smart Start Illinois begins a major push across birth-to-five programs, which includes:

• Pre-school expansion to eliminate preschool deserts and cover every child
• Improve early intervention services to allow thousands of children to overcome developmental challenges
• Enhance Illinois’ nation-leading home visiting program
• Raises for early childhood workers and providers

Illinois ranks sixth in the nation in K-12 education, with funding being increased this year by an additional $525 million, including $350 million for evidence-based funding and $45 million for the first year of an innovative three-year pilot program to fill teacher vacancies.

Governor Pritzker has also increased MAP Grant and AIM High funding to a record-breaking, all-time high of more than $750 million, making it possible for nearly every eligible student at or below median income to attend community college for free.

“Thanks to Governor Pritzker and the General Assembly, Illinois has stronger business attraction incentives than ever before and the state is building momentum,” said DCEO Director Kristin Richards. “Combined with our world-class infrastructure, superior education system, and a reasonable cost of living, Illinois continues to grow its economy and improve quality of life for Illinoisans.”

In addition to Infrastructure, Education, Access to Capital and Cost of Living, Illinois ranked among the top 20 states for Life, Health, and Inclusion (17th) – which measures quality of life metrics such as health care, worker protection, voting rights and other data points. Illinois also ranked 14th for Technology & Innovation, which looks at the number of patents, research and similar measures.

The positive rankings in key competitive categories come as Illinois is experiencing a record-setting year for economic development, including ranking #2 in the nation for corporate investment and #1 for workforce development in the Midwest by Site Selection Magazine. Illinois also shattered its record for film production spending (nearly $700 million) and reached an all-time high for hotel revenues in FY23.

Additionally, Illinois reached $1 trillion GDP for the first time in 2022 and nearly tripled companies’ capital investments through EDGE agreements from 2019 pre-pandemic levels to $1 billion in 2022.

Over the past several years, Illinois has launched new business attraction incentives while making improvements to its existing suite. Recent programs and improvements to business attraction include:

• Invest in Illinois Fund: $400 million closing fund provides discretionary grant assistance for large projects with significant job creation and capital investments.
• Reimagining Energy & Vehicles Illinois (REV Illinois): Up to 100% income tax withholding for new jobs created in the EV/clean energy manufacturing sectors, among other benefits.
• Economic Development for a Growing Economy (EDGE) Program: With more than $1 billion in investment from companies receiving EDGE credits in 2022, EDGE is Illinois’ premier incentive program. EDGE provides competitive tax incentives to businesses in all industries locating or expanding in Illinois.
• Data Centers Investment Program: Provides qualifying data center owners and operators with highly competitive exemptions from a variety of state and local taxes.
• Enterprise Zones (EZ) and High Impact Business (HIB): Enterprise Zones provide various benefits including building material sales tax exemptions, utility tax exemptions (natural gas and electricity), and investment tax credits.
• Manufacturing Illinois Chips for a Real Opportunity (MICRO): Provides incentives for manufacturers of microchips and semiconductor parts for job creation/retention benefits, training cost benefits, credits for construction jobs, and investment credits.

_{Originally published by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity.}

The business world is constantly evolving.

Globalization has made our planet more connected and advanced than ever before. From market conditions and consumer behaviors to supply chain management strategies and beyond—everything is changing quickly. It’s as exciting as it is challenging.

A key part of unlocking success in this dynamic era lies in embracing diversity—a fundamental element that distinguishes today’s adaptable and robust economies from their rigid, siloed predecessors.

Companies of all different sizes, industries and specialties each have something to bring to the table when it comes to building prosperous communities like DuPage County. By continuing to foster a diverse local economy, we’re better preparing ourselves to thrive both now and in the future.

Our new initiative, Connect DuPage, is helping to make this a reality—created with the intent of fostering meaningful collaborations among diverse businesses in DuPage County. Keep reading to learn more about the program and its goals, how it works, and how to get involved.

PROGRAM GOALS

The Connect DuPage initiative revolves around three key objectives:

1. Promote Commercial Collaboration: We bring together companies of all sizes and industries in our region, providing resources and tools that connect local buyers with local DuPage supply chain businesses.
2. Address Current Supply Chain Challenges: Through data-driven collaboration and ongoing communication, Connect DuPage helps area businesses speed up their timelines and simply their supply chain operations while boosting our local economy.
3. Raise Awareness and Opportunity for DuPage County Businesses: A key part of our vision is our commitment to promoting supplier diversity and inclusion in DuPage County—providing equal opportunities to all businesses, including minority-, women-, disabled- and veteran-owned companies.

HOW IT WORKS: CONNECTING YOU TO RESOURCES & OPPORTUNITIES

Taking advantage of Connect DuPage’s comprehensive range of services gives your business access to the insights, resources and opportunities necessary for sustainable, value-driven growth.

CUSTOM INDUSTRY-SECTOR REPORTS

Connect DuPage offers customized reports to help your business gain a deeper understanding of your industry and supply chain. Tailored to your field, these reports give you a detailed look at essential employment and workforce data, providing insights into the wide range of workforce opportunities available within DuPage County.

They also include regional economic forecasts and supply chain mapping, assisting businesses interested in promoting diversity by identifying potential partners and suppliers.

SUPPLIER DIVERSITY PROGRAM & DATABASE

Upon registering as a woman-, minority-, veteran-, or disabled-owned business with Choose DuPage, your company will be added to our diverse supplier database and featured in Connect DuPage’s industry-sector reports—connecting other businesses directly with you.

This increased exposure not only fosters networking but also opens doors to potential clientele, helping your business grow and thrive in a meaningful way.

CERTIFICATION RESOURCES

Connect DuPage strives to support businesses seeking certification as women-, minority-, veteran-, or disabled-owned enterprises. We put together a comprehensive list of resources and certifying agencies to help simplify the process and make registering as a diverse supplier with Choose DuPage as seamless as possible.

NETWORKING & EDUCATIONAL EVENTS

Another way Connect DuPage helps foster a strong and supportive business community is by hosting professional events aimed at fostering collaboration, supporting diverse enterprises, and enlightening business leaders about crucial developments in the supply chain industry.

Some of these programs are designed for the entire DuPage business community, while others focus on working directly with disadvantaged businesses.

LEARN MORE ABOUT CONNECT DUPAGE

For entrepreneurs considering a business relocation to the Chicago area or seeking industrial properties, DuPage County serves as an optimal location—offering a myriad of exciting business opportunities, ample commercial real estate and a high quality of life.

Whether you represent an established company seeking expansion or a budding startup keen on exploring new opportunities, Connect DuPage invites you to join our dynamic, forward-thinking business community.

By embracing diversity and fostering collaboration and networking in DuPage County, together, we can create an environment that’s right for today and ready for tomorrow.

Contact us for more information about Connect DuPage and how to get involved.

Crain’s Chicago Business recently released their ‘Fast 50’ list of the fifty fastest growing companies for 2023. An impressive 23 companies made the list that were not previously on it a testament to the continued strength of the region’s business community. On the list were 12 DuPage County-based companies. To view the full list and read the article, click here. 

DuPage County’s Fastest Growing Companies

Learn more about doing business in DuPage County, Illinois.