Gov. Pritzker Announces Illinois Ranked #2 for Corporate Expansion for Fourth Consecutive Year, Chicago Named #1 Metro for 13th Straight Year

Gov. Pritzker Announces Illinois Ranked #2 for Corporate Expansion for Fourth Consecutive Year, Chicago Named #1 Metro for 13th Straight Year

Site Selection’s annual rankings reinforce Illinois’ sustained economic momentum and national business leadership 

CHICAGO - Today, Governor JB Pritzker, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), and the Illinois Economic Development Corporation (Illinois EDC) announced that Site Selection Magazine has named Illinois #2 for corporate expansion and relocations for the fourth year in a row, and Chicago was named the #1 metro for the 13th consecutive year. Additionally, the state maintained its #2 placement for projects per capita for the third straight year.

Corporate real estate analysts regard Site Selection’s yearly analyses as “the industry scoreboard.” Qualifying projects must meet one or more of the following criteria: investment of $1 million or more, creation of 20 or more new jobs, or 20,000 square feet or more of new space.

“Once again, Site Selection is highlighting Illinois’ role as a nation-leading hub for business development. This impressive recognition reflects our efforts to foster a robust, future-focused economy that empowers companies to put down roots and grow in Illinois,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “Thanks to our innovative workforce development efforts, competitive incentives, and unmatched infrastructure, Illinois has solidified its position as an economic powerhouse that helps job creators thrive in every corner of the state.”

“These rankings are a reflection of the innovative and accommodating business environment we’ve built here in Illinois,” said Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton. “If you are looking to expand and grow, there is a place for you here. This is something we and our follow Illinoisans have known for a long time, but we are very pleased to be able to share the news — Illinois is open for business.”

Team Illinois — a collaborative partnership that brings together the Pritzker Administration, DCEO, and Illinois EDC, as well as utilities, higher education, local economic development organizations, and representatives of the business community — has worked closely to foster a thriving business environment. State-led initiatives like competitive incentive packages, site readiness investments, and robust workforce programs, along with Team Illinois’ global trade missions, have bolstered Illinois’ prominence as a preeminent place for businesses to locate and expand.

“Illinois continues to solidify its position as an economic powerhouse through its consistently high rankings as a top destination for corporate growth,” said DCEO Director Kristin Richards. “We got here by being intentional — from providing unmatched incentives to supporting our world-class workforce, the State of Illinois is showing companies both near and far that we’re open for business.”