Regional Business Outlook

Goal

Commercial Collaboration

Promote commercial collaboration within DuPage and the regional business community.

DuPage businesses are now more than ever, interested in collaborating locally with other businesses whether it’s for efficiency, supply chain back-up, or meeting company goals. DuPage companies are increasingly turning to Choose DuPage to help with these connections.

Connect DuPage, the supplier diversity program for DuPage County, is in its first year and off and running with great success. Over 90 companies have registered in the supplier portal, and many events have taken place to educate diverse companies on the certification process. This program is the first of its kind in the area. GCEP has opened doors to further opportunities for commercial collaboration (i.e., Argonne).

Key Activities:

  • Continue to establish Choose DuPage as a supply-chain resource for companies looking to collaborate locally by connecting local suppliers to specific industry leaders upon request.
  • Continue to identify new opportunities for commercial collaboration within specific industry sectors and sectors that may benefit from partnerships with Argonne National Laboratory, Fermilab, colleges and universities.
  • Elevate the Connect DuPage Program to a regional program and a model for connecting diverse businesses within the Chicagoland area. Identify funding pool for business certification.
  • Identify new opportunities for commercial collaboration within specific industry sectors, utilizing the resources of GCEP and industry specific groups (i.e., supply chain, manufacturing).