EDC Recent News
A Bright Spot for the Peoria Metro
February 11, 2010

by Jessica Moroz, Economic Development Council for Central Illinois
We have dealt with immense struggles during this economic crisis, and yet we have refused to ignore that this region has many bright spots. One such bright spot is the healthcare industry. [Full Story]

Peoria: A Healthcare Hotspot
February 11, 2010

by: Jim McConoughey, Heartland Partnership
The Peoria Metro has been center stage for Vaudeville, a whiskey capital and a manufacturing mecca. Could the region become a healthcare hotspot next? [Full Story]

Putting the Ship Back in Shipping
February 1, 2010

by Steve Jaeger, Heart of Illinois Regional Port District
In May 1997, a group of federal Department of Transportation staffers convened in a hotel meeting room outside the Memphis airport with a selected cluster of academics from the then-smattering of universities offering programs in transportation and logistics. Their mission was simple enough, yet audaciously ambitious: revolutionizing the way imported consumer goods move into the American Midwest. [Full Story]

December Unemployment Rates Released
January 29, 2010

Peoria MSA unemployment rate rose slightly in December to 11.2% compared to 10.8% in November (a .4% increase = approx 800 people). 

Economic Diversity Drives Job Growth
January 29, 2010

by: Kyle Ham, Peoria NEXT
Diversity is often mistaken for a purely social and moral issue, but this viewpoint neglects to account for a much larger truth. Diversity in the workforce must be recognized as a competitive edge and a business opportunity, especially in today's globally influenced economy. The unique perspectives that result from encouraging diversity of thought and experience are vital to economic success, and the Peoria NEXT Innovation Center leads the charge for an economically diverse Peoria. [Full Story]

Homeway Homes Receives More Recognition
January 19, 2010

While many companies are scaling back, Homeway Homes is forging ahead of the competition. This regional business is an internationally recognized home builder and Friday, the company was the chosen location for a political stop by a gubernatorial candidate. The candidate chose Homeway Homes' location because this company is a shining example of success.

EDC Presents: Economic Climate 2010
January 15, 2010

Economic Development Council for Central Illinois, The Heartland Partnership and Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce present: ECONOMIC CLIMATE 2010

What does the 2010 economic climate for the Peoria Metro area look like?  Join us February 25, from 7:00 to 8:30am at WeaverRidge to find out.  Multiple presenters will provide updates on our region’s main growth sectors of healthcare, small business and green sustainability.  Plus we will get a snapshot of our regional assets and look ahead to see what’s in store for our general economy for 2010.

EDC Leaders Meet with State Senate President
January 14, 2010

Earlier this month representatives from the Economic Development Council for Central Illinois (EDC) were invited by State Senate President John J. Cullerton to discuss economic development needs and how to make Illinois more attractive to businesses. 

EDC Congratulates Pekin on Veterans Drive Extension
January 14, 2010

This week Governor Pat Quinn was in the Peoria Metro to announce $30 million in funding for the Veterans Drive project in Pekin.  It’s part of the Illinois Jobs Now! plan and is expected to create 250 construction jobs. 

“Teaming” to Make Our Region More Competitive
January 6, 2010

Regional manufacturers are ‘teaming’ to be more competitive when it comes to bidding on government and large company contracts.