Insights

Powerful trends like the continued rise of e-commerce and strained global supply chains underscore the need for innovation in the critical transportation, distribution, and logistics industry. Meanwhile, cutting-edge technology from software connection platforms to blockchain to drones is transforming how goods flow around the world and creating opportunity for early movers.

When it comes to fighting climate change, Illinois is leading the way with one of the most ambitious plans in the country to reach 100% clean energy, while also laying the foundation for like-minded companies to thrive. The state’s legacy in manufacturing, combined with its booming market for solar installations, forward-thinking policies, unbeatable infrastructure, and highly skilled workforce offers solar manufacturers and suppliers exceptional opportunities for growth.

Crain’s recent editorial assessing Illinois’ business competitiveness acknowledged many of the state’s leading attributes, including elite universities churning out a well-trained workforce; world-class cultural amenities in an affordable setting; and its location at the center of infrastructure that efficiently moves people and products. In response, Dan Seals, the head of Intersect Illinois, sheds more light on the great things happening in the state.

The business of Halloween candy is massive. The National Retail Foundation expects total Halloween spending to reach a record $10.6 billion in 2022, with two-thirds of surveyed consumers planning to celebrate by handing out candy. Illinois fuels much of that, notably through Chicago’s legacy as the candy capital of the world. As food and candy companies work to meet Halloween demands, Illinois’ position as a food innovation center makes it a top location for these companies to grow.

Boasting the 5^th largest economy in the U.S., and ranking #3 in the nation for business expansions and relocations this past year, Illinois has proven to be a state of opportunity and growth. Conway Global’s 2022 Illinois Investment Guide tells a story of perseverance and triumph over the challenges following the pandemic. This year’s guide gives fresh insights into the path to success that Illinois has paved and what the state has accomplished in the last year.

A trio of recent investments from some of the world’s leading innovators in food and manufacturing underscores Illinois’ role as a hotbed of activity in sustainability, manufacturing, food production, and distribution.

After two years of being virtual, the OnRamp Agricultural Conference brought more than 500 attendees to the University of Illinois’ Champaign-Urbana campus for in-person meetings last month. This year’s event also marked the first time the conference came to Illinois, underscoring the state’s position as a leader in agricultural innovation and technology.

Image Source: OnRamp Agricultural Conference website

A surge in data center projects has made Illinois a national leader in the industry, underscored by CloudHQ’s new announcement. Northern Illinois is ranked a top five global market for data centers and is still growing. Illinois’ central location, deep talent pool and data center incentive program are driving companies from all over the world to invest here. In addition, the State’s utilities provided unparalleled access to reliable and clean energy. ComEd CEO Gil Quiniones explains how this access to reliable, sustainable power is pivotal to data center companies deciding where to locate.

Google is buying the iconic James R. Thompson Center in the heart of Chicago, deepening its ties to the state of Illinois and underscoring the city’s prominence as a tech leader. By investing in Chicago, Google is committing to growing its long-term presence in the city, where it currently employs 1,800 people.