DuPage County Receives Private Donation for Solar Panels

sustainability in dupage county

On Tuesday, March 12, 2024, the DuPage County Board celebrated a $50,000 donation from a Glen Ellyn couple which will contribute to a solar project on the County campus. Ann Boisclair and Jeff Jens presented a check to County Board Chair Deborah Conroy and Environmental Committee Chair Sheila Rutledge at this week’s County Board meeting.

“We are fortunate to have two very generous environmentalists in DuPage County who are putting their energy and resources toward preserving and improving the health of our planet,” said Chair Conroy.

The County installed a 164-kilowatt solar panel system on the roof of the 421 Administration Building. This system will lead to a reduction of more than 100 metric tons of carbon dioxide, which is enough to power nearly 30 homes annually.

“We hope this project will inspire others to pursue renewable, clean energy projects in the future,” said Environmental Committee Chair Sheila Rutledge. “We are grateful to Ann and Jeff for helping make this project a reality.”

Boisclair and Jens have supported 18 solar projects across the country, including a project at the Willowbrook Wildlife Center.

“We congratulate DuPage County on this impressive achievement that will provide many years of fossil-free energy,” said Boisclair and Jens. “The Country is providing much-needed leadership in the battle to contain global warming. This project benefits all the people of DuPage County. We would love to see more projects like this everywhere.”

Chicagoland Named Top Metro for Corporate Investment, 11 Years in a Row

corporate investment

The sense of regionalism exemplified by the Greater Chicagoland Economic Partnership will only reinforce the area’s attractiveness to tech, logistics, innovation, and vibrant young talent in an economy as diverse as its population.” — Site Selection Magazine

CHICAGOMarch 1, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Mayor Brandon Johnson, alongside representatives from World Business Chicago and key figures from the Greater Chicagoland Economic Partnership, gathered at S&C Electric in Chicago’s Rogers Park neighborhood to announce that, for the eleventh consecutive year, Chicago has secured the prestigious title of the top metro area in the United States for corporate investment, according to Site Selection magazine. This ranking underscores Chicago’s sustained appeal as a prime destination for business growth and development.

“Access to diverse talent, global connectivity and the City’s strong infrastructure are among the reasons why Chicago has been ranked a top metropolitan area for selection and corporate relocation for 11 years,” said Mayor Brandon Johnson. “On behalf of all the residents of the City of Chicago, I extend our gratitude to S&C Electric and the 162 other companies who made pro-Chicago decisions in 2023 – investing in our people, our neighborhoods, and our city—driving job creation and opportunities for all.”

In 2023, the Chicago metro area continued its streak by outpacing all other regions in the nation, with an influx of new corporate locations and expansions. World Business Chicago reported a total of 163 “pro-Chicagoland decisions” throughout the year. These decisions comprised 117 expansions and 46 relocations or new market entries, with notable investments targeting the South and West sides of the city, alongside significant developments across the Chicagoland region. Collectively, these initiatives resulted in the creation of over 23,000 job opportunities, further fueling the city’s economic vitality.

“We are profoundly honored to once again be acknowledged as the foremost metro for corporate investment in the United States,” said Charles E. Smith, Vice Chair, World Business Chicago. “This accomplishment reflects the unwavering dedication of our team, board of directors, the Mayor of Chicago, and our esteemed partners across the greater Chicagoland region. It underscores our shared commitment to nurturing an ecosystem where businesses flourish and communities thrive.”

Among the notable contributors to Chicago’s economic landscape in 2023 was S&C, which announced its expansion with a 275,000-square-foot facility in Palatine, reinforcing its commitment to the region’s growth. This expansion, situated approximately 25 miles from S&C’s headquarters in Rogers Park, is expected to generate 200 new jobs, contributing to the company’s significant local workforce of over 2000 team members in the Chicago area.

Chicago has been home to S&C for over 110 years, and the talent pool here is an essential part of our growth and success, allowing us to better serve customers with solutions that advance a resilient and reliable electrical grid,” said Anders Sjoelin, S&C’s president and CEO. “Additionally, we’re pleased to add jobs, create meaningful careers, and value for our local team members, and support our communities.

Mayor Brandon JohnsonLake County Board Chair Sandy Hart, and others emphasized the significance of today’s announcement, highlighting the collective efforts of the Greater Chicagoland Economic Partnership (GCEP), which was established in January 2023. The GCEP, comprising the City of Chicago and seven surrounding counties (Cook CountyDuPage CountyKane CountyKendall CountyLake CountyMcHenry County, and Will County), has spearheaded initiatives, and business delegations, aimed at fostering inclusive economic growth and promoting equity across diverse communities. Leveraging the region’s assets, including robust transportation infrastructure, diverse talent pools, and thriving sectors, the GCEP remains committed to driving sustainable development and maximizing opportunities for all.

Chicago is a dynamic city for energy storage innovation, robust R&D culture, and dedicated workforce,” celebrates Desmond Wheatly, CEO of Beam. “Embracing these strengths, Beam is strategically expanding its manufacturing presence in the Chicagoland region, delivering premium-grade batteries tailored for diverse applications such as eMobility, recreation, and robotics. With Chicago’s foundation of innovation and hard work, we’re poised to drive transformative advancements in energy technology.”

The continued recognition of Chicago as the top metro for corporate investment underscores the city’s resilience, innovation, and unwavering appeal to businesses seeking a dynamic environment for growth. As the third-largest metro area and a top 20 global economy, the Chicago region boasts tremendous talent and is home to some of the nation’s top colleges and universities. Leveraging these assets, Chicago remains at the forefront of economic prosperity, offering unparalleled opportunities for businesses to thrive and succeed in a vibrant and diverse marketplace.

GREATER CHICAGOLAND REGION LEADERS REFLECT UPON TODAY’S NEWS:

Toni Preckwinkle, Cook County President: “Companies like S&C Electric, Beam, Solo Cup, and so many others chose Chicagoland for a reason – they know here you will find a rich and diverse tapestry of strong industry sectors ranging from food manufacturing to film and television production. Site Selection’s eleventh consecutive win affirms the Chicago region’s continued promise of opportunity for the business community allowing for them to continuously grow, expand and thrive.”

Greg Bedalov, CEO and President, Choose DuPage, and Chairman of Greater Chicagoland Economic Partnership: “The unprecedented recognition of the Chicago Metro region as top site in the nation for corporate relocation and site selection for an 11th consecutive year is proof positive that the city and the metro area are absolute first-in-class locations for business growth. Achieving this lofty goal once a decade is worth shouting about. Achieving it for consecutive years that span more than a decade is nearly inconceivable. Working collaboratively with all the partners in the Metro area is producing measurable economic results for Chicagoland. The Chicago metro area is not only open for business, but also is clearly the spot to place for business. Congratulations to all those involved in making this happen and thank you to Site Selection magazine for this recognition.”

Kane County Board Chairman Corinne Pierog: “The recognition from Site Selection magazine highlights the region’s allure for new businesses and investments. It also illustrates our dedication to being a responsive community that supports a diverse range of sectors, including agriculture, corporate and small business.”

Kendall County Board Chairman, Matt Kellogg: “We are proud but not at all surprised to see the Chicago area receive recognition for its continued business growth. We see real evidence of that growth in Kendall County, as businesses choose to expand or relocate in the region. We are not only business friendly but a great place for employees to relocate and join our community. The Chicago region connects to the entire globe, whether its people, information, or logistics, which makes it an excellent place to live and do business.”

Sandy HartLake County Board Chair: “Lake County joins the entire Chicagoland region in proactively working together to advance sustainability and inclusive growth through strategic investments in infrastructure, talent, vibrant communities, and a diverse economy. Our central location, in the middle of the country and within arms-reach of a vast, global transportation network, makes the area a premiere location for business and people. We are proud that Chicagoland’s strength is once again being recognized by the industry-leading publication Site Selection Magazine. Being ranked the top U.S. metro for corporate relocation for the 11th year in a row comes as no surprise given all that the region has to offer to growing businesses.”

Mike Buehler, Chairman, McHenry County Board: “The Chicago Metro region’s unparalleled success in corporate relocation and site selection for over a decade is a testament to the collaborative spirit and unwavering dedication of our community. This continuous recognition by Site Selection magazine affirms that our city and metro area stand as beacons for business growth and innovation. Just as the Chicago region connects seamlessly to the global stage, so too does our commitment to fostering a diverse and vibrant ecosystem for businesses to thrive. Congratulations to all those who contribute to this remarkable achievement and thank you to Site Selection magazine for acknowledging our ongoing journey as a first-in-class destination for business.” 

Jennifer Bertino-Tarrant, Will County Executive: “The Chicagoland Region remains a strong economic force and globally competitive. Chicagoland communities are attracting corporations and high-paying jobs at a rapid pace thanks to our many regional assets, including diverse talent, affordability, high quality of life, and connectivity. I look forward to these assets driving continued growth into the future.”

Greater Chicagoland Economic Partnership: Year in Review, 2023

A Note From the Greater Chicagoland Economic Partnership’s Executive Leadership

Dear Partners and Friends,

One year ago, we embarked on a remarkable journey with the launch of the Greater Chicagoland Economic Partnership (GCEP). Our mission was clear – to unite and showcase the global competitiveness of the Chicagoland region, leveraging our diverse talent, advanced infrastructure, renowned institutions, and top-ranked industries. Today, we proudly share with you the GCEP’s 2023 report, a testament to our collective efforts and an invitation for you to join us as we further define the future of the region.

In just twelve months, the GCEP has emerged as a dynamic force. Our success lies in the active collaboration among county partners across the region. From international engagements like the Collision Conference in Toronto and the Chicago Sister Cities International 50-year anniversary business delegation trip to Japan, to local initiatives such as Chicago DeepTech Week and the Chicago Venture Summit series—we have cultivated a thriving ecosystem that extends far beyond our municipal or county borders. At the time of the launch, Cook County President Toni Preckwinkle remarked, “We all do better when we all do better.” This continues to represent the spirit of this collaboration. With equity and inclusivity as the cornerstone of economic development, we are contributing meaningfully to the economy throughout Chicagoland in many ways, including:

  • The GCEP is growing the regional economy. In the last year, 8,576 jobs were created or retained because of GCEP, which generated $715.9 million in direct and indirect worker earnings.
  • Sharing strategic initiatives, programming, and public funding opportunities which has led to increased trust across partners in the region, and a more collaborative approach to drive growth.
  • Providing data driven analysis and research that will continue to define future opportunities for economic growth across the city and seven county region.

In March 2023, Site Selection Magazine named Chicagoland the Top U.S. Metro for Corporate Relocations and Expansions, consecutively for ten years, and named four GCEP counties among “America’s Best Counties.” Last year, the WBC Research Center published the first-ever Regional Asset Map—a comprehensive guide that provides vital economic data. WBC’s support of GCEP includes producing monthly economic dashboards, quarterly updates, opinion pieces, and other vital assets. Furthermore, WBC’s leadership continues to enthusiastically deliver presentations, participate in panel discussions, and advocate for the strengths of Chicagoland as a prime business destination to businesses throughout the world.

We invite you to become a champion of the greater Chicagoland region. Consider this report as not just an overview, but a call to action. Here is a digestible glimpse into the strides we’ve made, the milestones we’ve achieved, and the vision that will continue to propel us forward. As a champion, you have the power to amplify and talk about the competitive advantages of Chicagoland. Join us as we solidify Chicagoland’s reputation as a global hub for innovation and the epicenter where the future of business is incubating.

Click here to download the report.

Greg Bedalov
Chairman, Greater Chicagoland Economic Partnership
President & CEO, Choose DuPage

Kyle Schultz
Chief Growth Officer, World Business Chicago

ComEd Announces New EV Rebates for Business and Public Sector Customers; Applications to Open February 15

ComEd launching $87 million in new rebates to incentivize expansion of electric vehicle charging, bring greater access to zero-emissions vehicles for communities throughout the region

CHICAGO (February 8, 2024) – As part of a larger investment to accelerate an equitable adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) in northern Illinois, ComEd is launching two new business and public sector EV rebate programs. New programs will provide a total of $87 million this year to help reduce upfront costs of all-electric commercial and public sector fleet vehicle purchases and incentivize the buildout of more business and public charging across the region.

ComEd today joined a diverse mix of environmental, community, industry, and municipal stakeholders in announcing its newest EV rebates from the annual Chicago Auto Show, held at McCormick Place. The two new EV rebate programs will begin accepting applications on February 15, 2024, with funds awarded on a first come, first served basis. New EV rebates for businesses and public sector customers follows the recent launch of the EV Charger and Installation Rebate Program for residential customers, for which customer can apply for by visiting ComEd.com/Clean.

“Working with our partners in northern Illinois, ComEd is committed to helping customers benefit from zero emissions vehicles, which can significantly reduce pollution and enhance air quality for all residents across our communities,” said Erica Borggren, ComEd Vice President of Customer Solutions. “Through new targeted incentives, we are aiming to accelerate the transition toward all-electric fleets, cars, buses, and trucks, while at the same time catalyzing the buildout of a regional network of public EV charging to serve more customers – a key factor to growing EV adoption equitably.”

New programs launching in 2024 include a total of $87 million for business and public sector EV initiatives. This year, $57 million in rebates will be available for business and public sector EV purchases, and $30 million in rebates are available to support electrical infrastructure “make ready” upgrades needed for the installation of publicly available Level 2 and Level 3 charging stations. Level 2 chargers can charge an EV battery 6 to 8 times faster than charging from a wall outlet, often referred to as a Level 1 charger. Level 3 chargers, often referred to as Direct Current Fast Charging (DCFC) can charge a typical EV battery in less than one hour.

More than half of all rebate funding is reserved to help boost EV investment in equity-eligible communities, and with higher levels of rebates reserved for customers located in, driving, or doing business in low-income and equity-eligible communities. 2

“Under Governor Pritzker’s leadership, the state of Illinois is leading an EV revolution, delivering incentives and enabling significant expansion of our EV charging network so more residents can take advantage of environmental and air quality benefits of zero emissions vehicles,” said Megha Lakhchaura, EV Officer for the state of Illinois. “ComEd’s new EV programs complement state and federal incentives designed to boost EV adoption and charging buildout on a larger scale. This means more school districts, transit agencies, local governments and small and large businesses and their surrounding communities can access the benefits of EVs.”

Specifically, funding amounts and eligibility for the two new ComEd rebate programs for business and public sector customers to support large-scale EV adoption are as follows:

  • A total of $57M is available in 2024 for EV Purchase Rebates
    Rebates between $5,000-$180,000 each, with funding not to exceed the cost of the vehicle. This includes funding for light duty, medium duty, and heavy-duty fleet vehicles, transit buses, and K-12 school buses. The rebate can also be applied retroactively in some cases; ComEd will accept applications for vehicles purchased as far back as June 1, 2023.
  • A total of $30M is available in 2024 for Make-Ready Electrical Infrastructure Rebates
    Rebates of up to $8,000 per Level 2 EV charger plug or port (with a 10-port maximum) or up to $1,000 per kW for infrastructure serving Level 3 chargers with a minimum of 50kW (maximum rebate of $500,000). Rebates can cover project make-ready costs including, but not limited to, contractor labor, conduits, cable, fasteners and breakers. Rebates will not cover the cost of the physical charger. This rebate can also be applied retroactively in some cases; ComEd will accept applications for qualifying projects completed as far back as June 1, 2023.

New investments to accelerate EV adoption in the region complement statewide plans to boost EV adoption in Illinois – a key focus as part of the state’s Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA), which sets a goal of putting 1 million EVs on state roads by 2030. EV ownership has increased in recent years, with 80,000 vehicles driving in northern Illinois today, up from just 17,000 in 2019. ComEd programs build on state and federal programs designed to reduce upfront costs to vehicle purchase, and to reduce range anxiety through the expansion of a network of charging serving more communities.

The new rebate programs announced today are geared toward business and public sector customers, including:

  • Those who are considering electrifying their fleet to improve their environmental footprint while reducing their fuel and operating costs.
  • Those who are looking to offer charging access to their customers and communities.

The programs will accept applications from a broad range of business and public sector customers, including small and large businesses, local government, school districts, and transit authorities.

“ComEd’s investments to expand EV adoption will support our regional efforts to address climate change and enhance air quality by reducing tailpipe emissions,” said Kevin Burns, Metropolitan Mayors Caucus Chairman of the Executive Board, Environmental Committee and Energy Subcommittee. “New rebate programs from ComEd will 3

complement the work our local governments are doing to develop infrastructure, policy and to lay the framework for an equitable EV future here in northern Illinois.”

“With dangerous air pollution still a regional challenge and with the burdens of asthma weighing more heavily on lower income communities, this new EV program will help reduce air pollution from the largest source in northern Illinois and make owning a clean, zero-emission vehicle more affordable precisely where they can provide the greatest health benefits,” said Brian Urbaszewski, Director of Environmental Health Programs at Respiratory Health Association.

EVs provide numerous benefits for customers. Not only do they offer fuel and maintenance cost savings and performance benefits, but communities can experience broad environmental improvements from reduced tailpipe emissions. Additionally, electrifying transportation—including cars, trucks, school buses and public transit fleets—can create tangible health benefits for all communities and families across northern Illinois, especially communities which have traditionally borne the brunt of climate change and air pollution.

“The Environmental Law & Policy Center is especially encouraged that school districts can get ComEd assistance with electric school buses and charging equipment,” said Susan Mudd, Senior Policy Advocate at the Environmental Law & Policy Center. “This is an equity issue as more low-income families rely upon bus transportation to safely get their children to and from school than higher-income families. We know that electric school buses provide a zero-emission ride to and from school, which means children are not exposed to asthma-inducing fumes. The quieter electric buses also mean students arrive at school calmer and more ready to learn.”

“ComEd’s ongoing commitment to advancing electrification is vital for reducing carbon emissions, improving health, and creating financial benefits for all communities in Illinois,” said Nate Baguio, Senior Vice President of Commercial Development at Lion Electric. “As a regional partner of ComEd’s, we recognize the importance of clean energy transportation programs, which are further amplified by state and federal investments such as the Reimagining Energy and Vehicles in Illinois Act (REV), Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA) and EPA Clean School Bus Program.”

“The launch of ComEd’s new EV rebates will make a big difference in helping low-income and environmental justice communities play a direct role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions,” said Billy Davis, Co-Founder, General Manager, Jitney EV, LLC. “By reserving half of all funding for equity eligible communities, ComEd is enabling a more just and equitable transition toward EVs and will incentivize more sustainable investment and cleaner air for the communities that need it most.”

ComEd’s new rebates take into consideration the large upfront costs associated with commercial grade electric vehicle purchase. ComEd also intends to work with local auto dealers to establish a process in 2024 that seeks to enable pre-approved rebate vouchers that can be applied at the point of purchase.

“ComEd’s new EV rebate programs mark a significant step in advancing sustainable transportation. Through providing substantial rebates for residential, commercial and public 4

sector charging, and fleet electrification with a focus on addressing financial barriers and communities in northern Illinois most impacted by pollution, ComEd demonstrates its dedication to enhancing accessibility to electric vehicles and beneficial electrification,” said Samantha Bingham, Coordinator of the Illinois Alliance for Clean Transportation. “The Illinois Alliance for Clean Transportation applauds ComEd’s rebate initiative and its broader efforts in advancing energy sustainability in the U.S. by facilitating clean fuel adoption and accessible charging infrastructure.”

New investments to support EV adoption at scale builds on existing ComEd programs to assist customers with electric fleet and charging infrastructure planning. This includes customized fleet assessments, as well as the recent launch of a new ComEd Fleet Toolkit at www.comed.com/EVbiz. The Fleet Toolkit can be used to develop a comprehensive estimate of the cost of converting a fleet, and to determine the optimum rate plan, charging times, and charging equipment for a fleet electrification project of any size. The Toolkit also contains a “EV Load Capacity Map” to help customers plan where to install charging infrastructure, based on estimated available load capacity.

To learn more about how ComEd is helping customers plan their journey to an EV, visit www.comed.com/ev. For more information on eligibility and to apply for new EV rebates on or after February 15th, visit www.comed.com/clean.

###

ComEd is a unit of Chicago-based Exelon Corporation (NASDAQ: EXC), a Fortune 250 energy company with approximately 10 million electricity and natural gas customers – the largest number of customers in the U.S. ComEd powers the lives of more than 4 million customers across northern Illinois, or 70 percent of the state’s population. For more information visit ComEd.com, and connect with the company on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, X, and YouTube.

The Green Business Checklist

Green Business Checklist

How to Cut Costs, Boost Efficiency & Reduce Your Environmental Impact

For many businesses, going green can feel like a gray area. That’s why Choose DuPage and the Smart Energy Design Assistance Center (SEDAC) created the Green Business Checklist: a simple yet effective tool to help Chicagoland businesses be more sustainable. Inside, you’ll find helpful tips and best practices for everything from energy consumption to transportation and more.

HOW TO USE THIS CHECKLIST

Designed for small to mid-sized manufacturers, warehouses, and other businesses, this green checklist offers general guidelines and best practices for sustainability. Use the checklist to identify areas of improvement for your business, then make an action plan.


ABOUT CHOOSE DUPAGE AND SUSTAINABLE DUPAGE

Choose DuPage is a network of Chicagoland stakeholders committed to fostering a pro-people, pro-business environment. As part of our strategic mission, we created Sustainable DuPage, an initiative that provides information and resources promoting sustainable practices. By helping local businesses go green, we aim to build a more efficient economy and a better future for all.

Learn more at ChooseDuPage.com/Sustainable-DuPage.

Breakfast with the Chair: Workforce Development

DuPage County business leaders gathered on Wednesday, January 24 at CBRE in Oak Brook for a roundtable discussion on workforce development. The discussion is part of an ongoing series hosted by The Hon. Deborah Conroy, DuPage County Board Chair, and Choose DuPage, designed to provide an opportunity for the business community to connect, learn, and discuss important topics affecting DuPage County.

Pictured above: Greg Bedalov, Choose DuPage | Laticia Holbert, ComEd | DuPage County Board Chair Deborah Conroy | Lisa Shvach, workNet DuPage

Laticia Holbert, Workforce Development Manager for ComEd led the discussion along with Lisa Shvach, Executive Director of workNet DuPage.

Some of the key takeaways include:

  • Workforce development is a compilation of comprehensive, focused actions to build economic and human capital in order to create business and community sustainability, remove barriers to decrease unemployment and underemployment and ensure a highly skilled, diverse workforce. Human resources (HR) is the division of a business responsible for finding, recruiting, screening, and training job applicants and also handle employee compensation, benefits, and terminations.
  • Employers need to be thinking about how young people are selecting work, because it’s so different than past generations. Younger generations need to see a career path laid out, they want to know what you’re doing for the community, for sustainability. It’s not just about money, they need to feel good about their work.
  • Partnering with other stakeholders in workforce development is critical. When you are creating workforce programs, utilize local workforce organizations and educational partners to help support the program. ComEd partners with organizations like Hire360, Chicago Corporate Coalition, Dawson Technical Institute, Big Shoulders Fund, Chicago Builds and Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership.
  • On-the-job training (apprenticeship models) is going to be more important than ever for the development of future workforce.
  • When recruiting employees, look for potential, not just skillsets. Managers may be tempted to fill a position quickly with someone who already has a skillset. But long-term workforce development comes from investing the time into someone with the right potential.

Learn more about DuPage County’s workforce ecosystem.

People-nomics, Part 2: Housing, Aging & Inflation

DUPAGE BUSINESS BEAT | PODCAST EP. 6

In this follow-up to “People-nomics: Part 1”, we continue our exploration of all things labor. Host Greg Bedalov and a pair of economic experts break down a wide range of workforce-related issues, including the rising cost of housing, the aging population, and the endgame of recent inflation.

Missed Part 1? Listen here.

Guests:

  • Matt Finn, CFA, Chief Economist of 1834, a division of Old National Bank
  • Glenn Mazade, SVP, Commercial Business Banking of Old National Bank

Host: Greg Bedalov, President and CEO of Choose DuPage

Dive Deeper:

  • Want to learn more about Chicagoland’s workforce? Start with the Chicagoland Economic Partnership Asset Report, a free resource that offers insights into the region’s key assets.
  • In 2023, DuPage County and Greater Chicagoland dominated Newsweek’s Greatest Workplaces list. See who made the list – and learn how these employers are reducing turnover rates while boosting employee productivity.
  • Located in the thriving Chicagoland region, DuPage County has access to a world-class talent pool. Visit the Choose DuPage workforce page to learn how our seamless pipeline helps develop next-gen talent and connects businesses with the workers they need.

A special thanks to the College of DuPage for supporting today’s episode. To keep up with what’s happening in DuPage County and the Chicagoland region, follow Choose DuPage on social media or visit ChooseDuPage.com/Ready.


DUPAGE BUSINESS BEAT PODCAST

Today’s biggest business issues, told from a Chicagoland perspective. A podcast about emerging industries, shifting borders, economic ecosystems, and you. Featuring experts and entrepreneurs. Hosted by Greg Bedalov, President & CEO of Choose DuPage. DuPage Business Beat is produced by Choose DuPage.

People-nomics, Part 1: Automation, Immigration & The Supply Chain

DUPAGE BUSINESS BEAT | PODCAST EP. 5

Today’s businesses are struggling for one thing: talent. So how did we get here? What factors are influencing the labor market? And how can businesses adapt?

The answer: It’s complicated.

In today’s episode, host Greg Bedalov sits down with an economist and a banking expert to discuss all things “People-nomics” – the economics of labor.

In the first half of their two-part conversation, Greg & co. discuss how automation and immigration are impacting the labor crisis, and what a shifting global supply chain could mean for our region.

Be sure to listen to “People-nomics, Part 2”, where we’ll dive into the rising cost of housing—and discuss what the heck is happening with interest rates.

Guests:

  • Matt Finn, CFA, Chief Economist of 1834, a division of Old National Bank
  • Glenn Mazade, SVP, Commercial Business Banking of Old National Bank

Host: Greg Bedalov, President and CEO of Choose DuPage

Dive Deeper:

  • Want to learn more about Chicagoland’s workforce? Start with the Chicagoland Economic Partnership Asset Report, a free resource that offers in-depth data and insights on the region’s key assets.
  • Want better workers? Build better workplaces. Check out our Smartest Workplaces in DuPage: 2023 list to see how businesses in the Chicagoland suburbs are redefining workplace experiences.
  • Located in the thriving Chicagoland region, DuPage County has access to a world-class talent pool. Visit the Choose DuPage workforce page to learn how our seamless pipeline helps develop next-gen talent and connects businesses with the workers they need.

A special thanks to the College of DuPage for supporting today’s episode. To keep up with what’s happening in DuPage County and the Chicagoland region, follow Choose DuPage on social media or visit ChooseDuPage.com/Ready.


DuPage Business Beat Podcast

Today’s biggest business issues, told from a Chicagoland perspective. A podcast about emerging industries, shifting borders, economic ecosystems, and you. Featuring experts and entrepreneurs. Hosted by Greg Bedalov, President & CEO of Choose DuPage. DuPage Business Beat is produced by Choose DuPage.

Illinois Employers Required to Provide Public Transit Benefits in 2024

metra

The Transportation Benefits Program Act, enacted on July 28, 2023, makes Illinois one of a handful of U.S. jurisdictions to mandate employee transportation benefits, along with the San Francisco Bay Area, Los Angeles, Washington, D.C., Seattle, New York City, and New Jersey.

Illinois’s Transportation Benefits Program Act applies to employers that: (1) are located in one of thirty-eight specific counties and townships in Illinois, and (2) employ fifty or more full-time employees in one of the specified geographic areas at an address that is located within one mile of a fixed-route transit service run by the Regional Transportation Authority (RTA). The RTA oversees transit systems in the six-county Chicago area.

The act applies to employers in the following locations: Cook County, Warren Township in Lake County, Grant Township in Lake County, Frankfort Township in Will County, Wheatland Township in Will County, Addison Township, Bloomingdale Township, York Township, Milton Township, Winfield Township, Downers Grove Township, Lisle Township, Naperville Township, Dundee Township, Elgin Township, St. Charles Township, Geneva Township, Batavia Township, Aurora Township, Zion Township, Benton Township, Waukegan Township, Avon Township, Libertyville Township, Shields Township, Vernon Township, West Deerfield Township, Deerfield Township, McHenry Township, Nunda Township, Algonquin Township, DuPage Township, Homer Township, Lockport Township, Plainfield Township, New Lenox Township, Joliet Township, and Troy Township.

The act requires covered employers to provide a commuter benefit to all full-time employees, beginning on with the first full pay period after 120 days of employment. “Full-time” means working at least thirty-five hours per week and receiving compensation on a full-time basis. The benefit must allow employees to elect pre-tax salary reductions to be used to reimburse transit pass expenses. The act defines “transit pass” to include tokens, fare cards, and vouchers entitling a person to transportation on a public transportation system within the jurisdiction of the RTA or the Chicago Transit Authority. Employers are not required by the law to make any contributions to employees for commuter benefits, but they are allowed to do so under federal tax laws.

The transit benefit must satisfy the federal requirements and limitations for qualified transportation fringe benefits contained in Internal Revenue Code Section 132(f). This includes the monthly maximum election amount, which is subject to annual cost-of-living adjustments. The maximum amount per month in 2023 is $300. The Internal Revenue Service has not yet published the monthly maximum amount for 2024. This maximum amount applies whether transportation benefits are funded by employee salary reductions, employer contributions, or a combination of both. Federal law also allows employers to provide reimbursement benefits for vanpooling, parking, and bicycle commuting expenses, though this is not required under the Transportation Benefits Program Act.

Illinois Back to Business New Business (B2B NewBiz) Grant Program

Illinois B2B NewBiz will provide financial relief to businesses that started during the pandemic in the industries most impacted by the pandemic. Businesses that started during the pandemic have not been eligible for state grants and most federal emergency support provided for emergency relief to small businesses thus far.

To learn more and apply, visit the official site here: b2bnewbiz.com.

Attend a Webinar

Lendistry and this Program’s community-based partners will host a series of webinar sessions where they will walk you through the guidelines and do a live demo of the application process!

The following topics will be discussed:

  • Eligibility requirements and required documentation.
  • How to navigate Lendistry’s Portal.
  • How to successfully complete and submit an application.

Find a webinar that best fits your schedule and register at b2bnewbiz.com/webinars. Instructions on how to sign into the webinar will be emailed to you.