CHICAGO — Today Governor JB Pritzker announced that The Grainger College of Engineering at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign has joined a pioneering SMART USA (Semiconductor Manufacturing and Advanced Research with Twins USA) Institute, a public-private endeavor focused on the development, validation, and use of virtual spaces for semiconductor manufacturing, advanced packaging, assembly, and test processes. This opportunity was secured through a collaborative approach bolstered by $50 million in matching grant funds from the State of Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity (DCEO) to support efforts at the Illinois Quantum & Microelectronics Park (IQMP).

"Illinois' cutting-edge research universities, synergized public-private partnerships, and dedication to the technologies of the future make the University of Illinois a natural choice to join a project like this, and I'm glad the Biden-Harris administration has selected our state's flagship to be a part of this institute," said Governor JB Pritzker. "Semiconductors, microelectronics, and quantum are all a huge part of the economy of the future and this project will yield more research-driven results that move us closer to long-term manufacturing goals."

BUSHNELL - Today, Governor JB Pritzker joined the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), local leaders, and Marshalltown Hammer Company leadership to announce new investments in Bushnell. In support of the project, the State of Illinois provided a $5 million grant to enable Marshalltown Hammer to acquire and establish operations in the former Vaughan & Bushnell facility.

"Economic prosperity for the working families of Illinois ought to be our state's North Star," said Governor JB Pritzker. "Today, we celebrate an important milestone, securing jobs, facility improvements for this storied institution. Thanks to the collaboration of State and local partners, the resilience of the people of Bushnell, the great folks at Marshalltown Hammer, and an assist from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity - the city will continue to prosper, and the families of this region will have an opportunity to thrive."

CHICAGO - Today, Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) announced up to $10 million in funding for the Apprenticeship Expansion Competitive Grant Program to support workforce programs that expand Registered Apprenticeship Programs (RAPs) and pre-apprenticeship programs leading to RAPs. Grantees will be selected through a competitive Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) process.

"Since day one, my administration has prioritized expanding access to apprenticeship programs as a pathway to high-paying jobs," said Governor JB Pritzker. "With the new Apprenticeship Expansion Competitive Grant program, we're building on that commitment, initially prioritizing non-traditional and in-demand sectors to increase apprenticeship opportunities and support employers. These are the types of strategic investments that ensure we have a strong workforce in critical fields that drive future growth. And most importantly, it keeps our state's best assets — our people — at the forefront of economic progress."

CHICAGO — Today, Governor JB Pritzker joined Freedman Seating Company and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) to announce new investments in the company's Chicago manufacturing facility that will create 50 new full-time jobs and retain 676 full-time jobs. Freedman Seating Company's $4 million investment in capital expenditures, bolstered by an Economic Development for a Growing Economy (EDGE) agreement, will enable the company to make site improvements to accommodate new manufacturing equipment at its nearly 100-year-old facility in Chicago's Austin neighborhood.  

"Through the competitive incentive programs, workforce development, and other business development efforts, our state is supporting businesses that create jobs and invest back into their communities," said Governor JB Pritzker. "Illinois is one of the best places in the world for manufacturing companies, and today once again we're proving that our state is open for business." 

CHICAGO - The Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) Board approved awards totaling $24 million in federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC) and an additional $39 million in federal and state subordinate resources that will finance the creation and preservation of 16 affordable housing developments in 11 counties throughout Illinois. The LIHTC awards are expected to generate an estimated $180 million in private capital to support the development of 850 affordable homes for low- to moderate-income families, seniors, and veterans.

"Every Illinoisan - present and future - deserves a safe and affordable place to call home," said Governor JB Pritzker. "By leveraging the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit to spur millions in private development, we're offering real housing solutions for working families, seniors, and veterans while creating jobs in construction and revitalizing communities up and down the state."

DANVILLE - Governor JB Pritzker, Vermilion Advantage and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) today announced that Vermilion Advantage has been awarded $80,000 in federal grant funding from the U.S. Economic Development Administration's Local Technical Assistance program. Vermilion Advantage is a non-profit organization that combines the functions of a chamber of commerce and an economic development agency to create and sustain an environment for business success and economic growth within Danville and Vermilion County.   

"Illinois is committed to investing in projects that leverage that strengthen economic development opportunities while creating jobs," said Governor JB Pritzker. "Thanks to organizations like Vermilion Advantage, and support from the Federal Grant Support Program, businesses in Vermilion County will benefit for years to come from the recruitment plan created through this initiative." 

PEORIA - Governor JB Pritzker, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), and the Illinois Manufacturing Excellence Center (IMEC) today announced the recipients of the 2025 Made in Illinois Grant Program. This year, 29 small and mid-sized manufacturers across Illinois are receiving a combined $1.35 million in capital grant funding to drive innovation, efficiency, and growth in the state's vital manufacturing sector. The program is part of Illinois' broader commitment to support the state's manufacturers while bolstering the manufacturing ecosystem. 

"Illinois is a globally-recognized manufacturing hub and the Made in Illinois Program is designed to support the small and mid-size manufacturers that make up a crucial part of our economy," said Governor JB Pritzker. "This grant program helps companies access resources to become more competitive, enhance economic development, attract capital, and bring jobs to communities across the state. I look forward to seeing how these manufacturers utilize the program to advance innovation in their field."

CHICAGO - Today, Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) announced 88 awards totaling $57 million through the Community Solar Energy Sovereignty Grant Program ($7.7 million), Equitable Energy Future Grant Program ($10.3 million), and Energy Transition Community/Zion Grant Program ($39 million) - initiatives under the landmark Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA).  These programs will catalyze energy efficiency and renewable energy projects that will help clean energy businesses grow and utilize Illinois' clean energy workforce.

"A true clean energy future is one that leaves no community behind," said Governor JB Pritzker. "Through the transformative Climate and Equitable Jobs Act, we're ensuring historically disadvantaged communities are at the forefront as we grow our clean energy economy. These grant programs are driving clean energy projects where they're needed most, creating opportunities and a future where all Illinoisans can thrive."

PEKIN - Governor JB Pritzker, Epic Medical and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) today announced the company will open its first U.S. facility in the Riverway Business Park in Pekin. Epic Medical, which will operate as Epic Pharma Solutions Inc. in Illinois, will make a $25 million capital investment with support from an Economic Development for a Growing Economy (EDGE) agreement with DCEO, which will enable the company to expand into the U.S., construct an intravenous (IV) solutions manufacturing facility, and initially create 50 new full-time jobs.

"Illinois is one of the best places in the world for manufacturing companies to operate, and we are thrilled to welcome Epic Medical to Pekin," said Governor JB Pritzker. "With the $25 million investment, the Central Illinois facility will create good-paying jobs for working families in the region while strengthening the medical device supply chain to increase the availability of important medical products."

CHICAGO - Today, Governor JB Pritzker, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) and Intersect Illinois announced that Site Selection Magazine, the leading publication in corporate real estate and facility planning, has ranked Illinois #2 for corporate expansion and relocation for the third year in a row, and Chicago was named the #1 metro for the twelfth consecutive year. This achievement follows another year of success in attracting new businesses and economic opportunities through historic investments in site readiness, workforce development and infrastructure improvements, making Illinois a top state to do business.

"Illinois continues to attract leading businesses and with expansions and relocations increasing 20 percent increase over 2023, the State is growing its reputation as a premier global destination to do business," said Governor JB Pritzker. "With unmatched infrastructure and incentives, a talented and qualified workforce, and a diverse array of industry leaders, it's no surprise that Illinois has achieved this impressive recognition from Site Selection Magazine for the third year in row."

Gov. J.B. Pritzker on Tuesday plans to announce a major partnership with the U.S. Department of Defense’s research and development agency to further expand quantum research in Illinois.

The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, or DARPA, will take residency on the state’s quantum campus to establish a program where quantum computing prototypes will be tested. The location of the campus is expected to be announced soon.

A result of years of negotiations among environmental groups and labor and business interests, Gov. JB Pritzker signed legislation creating new regulations on carbon capture and sequestration Thursday.

Senate Bill 1289, also known as the Safe CCS Act, passed in the Illinois General Assembly during the final days of the spring session, 78-29 in the House and 43-12 in the Senate, largely along party lines.

Illinois is making its giant bet on quantum computing on the Far South Side of Chicago at the former U.S. Steel South Works plant on Lake Michigan, hoping to turn a symbol of Rust Belt decline into high-tech prosperity while reinvigorating a part of the city that has struggled for years to attract investment and jobs.

The state, along with research and corporate partners, chose the former steel mill over a former refinery in Lockport for a 128-acre campus that will be anchored by PsiQuantum, a Silicon Valley startup with ambitious plans to build the world’s largest quantum computer.

Gov. JB Pritzker is leading a trade mission to Mexico from Sunday through Wednesday focused on agriculture, finance and manufacturing.

The trip to Mexico City follows a delegation to Japan last fall and comes as trade tensions between the U.S. and Mexico are worsening. The Trump administration said March 26 it will impose 25% tariffs on imported cars and parts.

PRINGFIELD — Gov. JB Pritzker vowed Tuesday that Illinois will remain a “stable” trading partner with nations around the world, despite President Donald Trump’s imposition of tariffs that have disrupted global markets.

“Look, there are a lot of uncertainties at the moment, a lot of instability. There’s no doubt,” Pritzker said. “But this is a stable state. This is a state that thrives on certainty and allows our businesses to do well. And so we look forward to maintaining that status.”

CHICAGO- ​ Governor JB Pritzker, Avina Clean Hydrogen, and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) today announced the selection of Southwest Illinois as the location for Avina Clean Hydrogen's $820 million investment for a sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) project. The investment will enable Avina Clean Hydrogen Inc., a pioneer in the clean fuels sector, to develop its facility to produce SAF, helping meet Illinois' clean energy goals and supporting the state's growing clean energy economy.

"Illinois is proud to be a leader in the nation's clean energy industry, and we've seen record growth over the past few years as companies choose to relocate to or expand across our state," said Governor JB Pritzker. "Avina Clean Hydrogen's new SAF production facility will support our ambitious goals for a clean energy economy by substantially reducing carbon emissions and creating new jobs for Southwest Illinois."

CHICAGO, IL – Intersect Illinois today announced changes to its leadership team. After nearly three years in the position, Intersect Illinois CEO Dan Seals will step down at the end of the month. Intersect Illinois Senior Vice President of Business Development Paulina San Millan will serve as interim CEO while a search for Seals’ replacement takes place.

“Intersect Illinois has seen tremendous growth over Dan’s tenure and we truly appreciate his passion for economic development and his dedication to the state of Illinois,” said Intersect Illinois Chairman John Atkinson. “Dan has taken the organization to the next level and I’m confident that Paulina and the team will continue to build on the momentum that is strong throughout the state right now.”

JACKSONVILLE – Governor JB Pritzker joined the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) and local leaders in Jacksonville today to announce state-funded grant awards totaling $30 million for 25 grantees through the Rebuild Illinois Downtowns and Main Streets (RDMS, $20 million) and Research in Illinois to Spur Economic Recovery (RISE, $10 million) programs to revitalize commercial corridors and downtown areas throughout the state and accelerate local economic initiatives.

“As Governor, one of my top priorities is to reverse decades of neglect and broken promises and bring jobs, opportunity, and hope back to communities across Illinois, while breathing new life into our downtown corridors and beyond,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “This program will directly support 25 communities across the state by funding critical community development projects, housing and infrastructure all while revitalizing commercial corridors.”

DECATUR- Governor JB Pritzker joined TCCI Manufacturing today to announce the grand opening of its Clean Energy Innovation Hub. The new state-of-the-art hub is a $45 million project which strengthens the North American supply chain by onshoring critical electric vehicle (EV) component manufacturing, providing training and cutting edge research opportunities. As part of the project, TCCI invested more than $20 million to revamp their Decatur facility, creating 50 new jobs in the process. TCCI is the first recipient of the state’s groundbreaking Reimagining Energy and Vehicles in Illinois (REV Illinois) incentive program. ​ ​

“From workforce development to innovation to manufacturing expansion, we are building an engine of opportunity. That starts with strategic projects like the Clean Energy Innovation Hub,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “This has been years in the making, and it took collaboration to get here — collaboration between a company committed to Illinois, a state government and General Assembly committed to building an ecosystem for innovation to thrive, city government partners that understand what job growth means for its residents, and higher education that produces the highest quality workforce in the nation. Illinois is turning the page to grow good jobs, a cleaner environment, and stronger communities.”

CHICAGO –  In recognition of ComEd’s successful efforts to achieve best-in-class reliability, PA Consulting, the global innovation and transformation consultancy, yesterday presented the electric company the 2024 ReliabilityOne® award for Outstanding Reliability Performance in the Midwest Metropolitan Service Area. ComEd also received the Climate Action Leader award for advancing the planning and operations to transition into a cleaner future grid.

“ComEd continues to make strategic investments in its system to ensure best-in-class reliability for its customers,” said David Perez, Executive Vice President and COO of ComEd. “At the same time, we are improving the grid to meet the needs of our customers who want more clean, renewable energy on the grid and achieve the goals set forward in Illinois’ landmark Climate and Equitable Jobs Act, or CEJA.”