CHICAGO – In the first quarter of 2026, a growing number of global companies have decided to invest, expand, and create jobs in Illinois, marking a start to the year that already surpasses the job creation commitments of recent years.
Companies participating in the Economic Development for a Growing Economy (EDGE) program have so far committed to creating nearly 4,000 jobs and making investments totaling $2.5 billion. These figures exceed the total number of jobs committed through the EDGE and Reimagining Energy and Vehicles (REV) programs in 2025. Notably, these numbers represent only a portion of the private investment and job growth currently taking place across the state.
“The rest of the world is starting to catch on to what we’ve always known: Illinois is the best place to live, work, and raise a family,” stated Governor JB Pritzker. “Global companies continue to choose Illinois for our central location, robust infrastructure, and diverse, hardworking workforce. From advanced manufacturing and life sciences to film production, these investments mean more jobs and more goods produced right here in Illinois.”
Kristin Richards, Director of the DCEO, added: “Record-breaking investments and growth in Illinois help uphold the state’s reputation as a global economic powerhouse. Prioritizing our incentive programs has not only positioned Illinois at the forefront of economic development nationwide but has also expanded job opportunities for the state’s residents. Most importantly, Illinois remains the best place to live, work, and do business.”
A Strategy Focused on Growth and Stability
Governor Pritzker has worked to make Illinois the best place in the country to do business, prioritizing affordability, workforce development, fiscal responsibility, and long-term economic stability. This strategy continues to yield results across key industries outlined in the Illinois Economic Growth Plan.
Global Companies Choose Illinois for Advanced Manufacturing and Innovation
Manufacturing companies are choosing Illinois as a hub for innovation and production, drawn by its skilled workforce, strategic location, and robust infrastructure:
- DMG MORI will expand its presence in Illinois with a $40.5 million investment, building a new advanced manufacturing and research and development center. This facility will feature a workforce development program in collaboration with the City Colleges of Chicago, connecting students with careers in advanced manufacturing.
- Hyundai Translead has chosen Illinois for a new manufacturing operation in Will County, involving a $450 million investment that will create nearly 2,500 new jobs. This operation will revitalize two dormant facilities, increasing production capacity for commercial transportation products.
Leadership in Life Sciences and Biopharmaceuticals
Global life sciences companies are choosing Illinois to grow, innovate, and produce next-generation therapies:
- CSL, a global leader in biotherapeutics, will invest $1.5 billion in Illinois—one of the largest life sciences investments in the state’s history. Its Kankakee campus will retain over 1,200 jobs and create 300 new full-time positions.
- AbbVie will expand its manufacturing campus in North Chicago with a $380 million investment, constructing new facilities and creating 300 jobs to support the production of innovative medicines for neuroscience and obesity management.
Expansion in the Food Innovation Industry
- Mars Snacking will expand its presence in Illinois, creating 600 new jobs and investing $100 million to expand its global headquarters in Chicago, adding to its existing workforce of over 4,000 employees.
- Savencia Cheese USA will expand its facility in Lena, Illinois, by transferring production expertise from France and adding a new production line, creating 50 additional jobs.
Illinois: A Leading Destination for Film and Television Production
In 2025, Illinois reached a record $703 million in film and TV production expenditures, generating approximately 18,000 jobs and over $400 million in wages. Thanks to strategic investments by Governor Pritzker and the expansion of the Illinois Film Production Tax Credit, the state continues to attract major productions and talent, solidifying its position as one of the country’s premier destinations in this sector.
Tangible Economic Results
The strong start to 2026 reflects a broader trend: companies continue to choose Illinois over competing states.
- Illinois has ranked #2 in the nation for corporate expansions and relocations for four consecutive years.
- It ranks #1 in the Midwest and #3 nationally for workforce development.
- According to CNBC’s Best States for Business, Illinois ranks #13—climbing 17 spots since 2019.
With record investments and job creation underway, Illinois continues to build upon its momentum, demonstrating that a focus on fiscal responsibility, economic growth, and opportunity attracts businesses and strengthens the state economy.
Read article in Spanish / Leer artículo en español: https://elchicagohispano.com/pritzker-impulsa-crecimiento-economico-mientras-empresas-globales-eligen-illinois-para-expandirse/
