”The Close proximity to the Chicago Metro area and the availability of a great workforce area makes North Central Illinois the ideal area to locate your business. “
Tom Ganiere
Commissioner, City of Ottawa
”As a lifelong resident of the Illinois Valley and the newest president of IVCC, seeing the growth in our community and being able to build partnerships between industry and education is so exciting.“
Dr. Tracy Morris
President, Illinois Valley Community College
”Our region is a logistics powerhouse—served by major interstates, railroads, barge access, and proximity to intermodal rail ports. If you're looking for a single location to manufacture and distribute nationwide, this is the place.“
David Noble
Economic and Community Development Director, City of Ottawa
”Our region benefits from Illinois Valley Community College’s targeted, hands-on training that equips students with the skills needed to meet today’s workforce demands. The college helps attract and support businesses relocating to the area by providing a highly skilled, job-ready talent pool.“
Jennifer Scheri
Director of Continuing Education and Business Services, IVCC
”Our companies benefit greatly from the variety of transportation options, cost advantages, and outstanding workforce in the area.“
Steve Nelson, president
Tri-Con Materials, Advanced Asphalt, TCI Manufacturing
”At Iowa Interstate Railroad, we understand that rail access can be the difference between a good site and a great one. That’s why we’re proud to partner with communities like those in North Central Illinois—where local leadership is proactive, infrastructure is strong, and the vision for long-term growth aligns perfectly with our commitment to customer-focused logistics.“
James Bowman
Senior Director – Economic & Site Development, Iowa Interstate Railroad
”ComEd is proud to support our community partners’ efforts to grow the regional economy through inclusive, equitable capital investment and job creation throughout northern Illinois.“
John McCann
Economic Development Manager, ComEd
”Our staff and our Board are a collective of like-minded individuals with a single purpose--drawing attention to all of the great economic opportunities that the region affords.“
Dave Conterio
CEO, Hometown National Bank
”Be it the business interests, the municipalities, the various community organizations, the unions, or our educational institutions, together we are determined to highlight the attractiveness of our area. With the movement away from cities, this region is well suited for growth and has everything to offer the prospective employer and employee.“
Dave Conterio
CEO, Hometown National Bank
”The region boasts a strong economy, providing diverse job opportunities across various sectors such as manufacturing, agriculture, and healthcare.“
Curt Bedei
Director of Economic Development, City of LaSalle
”Partnering with EDCNCI allows us to align our energy solutions and economic development goals with the region's long-term growth strategy. Through our collaboration, we're creating a stronger foundation to attract and support local businesses, building new opportunities for our communities, and fostering sustainable economic growth across Illinois.“
Eric Whitfield
Director of Economic Development, Ameren Illinois
”Highly skilled craftsmen and financially-sound construction companies are here to meet the needs of developers.“
Brad Bruins
Advanced Asphalt
”Operating here since 1848, our company has produced top-quality products and offered a great value proposition for our customers.“
Roelif Loveland
President, W.H. Maze Company
”We're proud to be one of many businesses taking advantage of this Transportation and Logistics Hub of North Central Illinois.“
Steve Aubry
LaSalle County Board
”This U.S. headquarters and distribution location increases the capability to maintain the demand Fliegl is seeing with their steady growth in North America.“
Ed Reichling
Executive Manager, Fliegl US
”With exceptional transportation options, a vibrant workforce, and community leaders who work collaboratively with our businesses and industries, we are excited to assist companies as they grow and prosper!“
Jay McCracken
Ottawa Chamber Executive Director & IVCC Board Chair
”At Iowa Interstate Railroad, we understand that rail access can be the difference between a good site and a great one. This region gets it, and we’re excited to help move their industries forward, one carload at a time.“
James Bowman
Senior Director – Economic & Site Development, Iowa Interstate Railroad
”The residents enjoy a wide range of recreational opportunities amidst the numerous parks and conservation areas.“
Curt Bedei
Director of Economic Development, City of LaSalle
”Since 1924, IVCC has been a key provider for workforce development and we look forward to our next 100 years working with our community.“
Dr. Tracy Morris
President, Illinois Valley Community College
”We have been fortunate to expand five times since 1989. We are happy to be in the Illinois Valley.“
Yuji Ozeki
Executive Vice President, Unytite USA - headquartered in Japan
”We are able to meet ongoing demand growth, drive efficiencies, use new technologies, and leverage our capabilities. We are pleased to continue investing here in Illinois.“
Mark Kolkhorst
President, ADM Milling
”This community sets itself apart by being a level above everybody else.“
Scott Struchen
CCO - Tangled Roots Brewing - Ottawa
”This area's location, logistics, tax base, and business climate are important for our success. We ship worldwide, so cost-saving advantages make a difference.“
David Mennie
President, Mennie Machine
”The North Central Illinois region offers some of the best industrial locations in the Midwest and our local governments work together to offer many incentives to help accelerate business growth.“
Duane Calbow
Economic Development Planner, NCICG
”The presence of esteemed educational institutions and a skilled workforce contribute to the economic stability and prosperity.“
Curt Bedei
Director of Economic Development, City of LaSalle
”North Central Illinois is strategically positioned for domestic and global distribution. We take advantage of shipping via rail, river barge or on the major highway systems.“
Mark Marquis
CEO, Marquis Energy
”This is a great place to have a business. It's right in Chicago's backdoor, and a very cool place to live.“
Inga Carus
Chairman, Carus Group Inc.
”As a lifelong resident of LaSalle County, our region offers significant business advantages, including 2 major interstates connecting us through Central Illinois.“
Mayor Dave Stewart
Village of North Utica, IL
”The EDC is an important hub to driving our reginal economic development. We are proud to sponsor an organization dedicated to helping the area grow and prosper. I believe we are poised for an exciting future!“
John McCormick
CEO, Eureka Savings Bank
”Our region provides many benefits such as proximity to larger metropolitan areas, a reliable workforce and an excellent quality of life.“
John McCormick
CEO, Eureka Savings Bank
”Every day I open the door to my store, I am really happy that I have a spot here.“
Francie Skoflanc
Owner - Mess of Things retail store
”Headquartered here since 1944, Martin Engineering is well-positioned to remain a worldwide industry leader and a respected brand.“
Ed Peterson
Chairman and CEO, Martin Engineering, Neponset
”Transportation, Great Access to Reliable Utilities, and a Strong Workforce. It is all right here. “
Niall McConville
Site Manager - SABIC Manufacturing - headquartered in Saudi Arabia