Author: Lake County Partners

2024 Was a Standout Year for Business in Lake County, Illinois

, Date: February 20, 2025

Lake County’s talent and strong mix of industries fueled record growth in 2024, with the year building on one of the best runs of economic development in the county’s history. The year also developed a fresh pipeline of projects in key industries like advanced manufacturing, food packaging, life science, and sustainable energy like us to pursue in 2025.

As a direct result of our work, we helped fuel $251 million in new capital investment and 541 new jobs, and retain 667 existing jobs in Lake County in 2024. We are especially proud to announce that, over the last 5 years, we have also powered $1.33 BILLION in direct investment.

The success is evidence of LCP’s laser focus on outreach strategies that drive results. In recent years, we have fine-tuned our communications to generate leads and nurture new relationships; in turn, we leveraged local resources to help businesses grow and tap into the talent and quality of life for which Lake County is known. 

Between all the groundbreakings, ribbon cuttings, award ceremonies, and everything in between, there were plenty of occasions to celebrate in 2024. Here were just a few of the year’s biggest highlights:

MAJOR INVESTMENTS & NEW JOBS DEFINED 2024

T5 DATACENTERS

When T5 decided to invest $2.25 billion in a new data center, it chose Lake County for its well-regarded talent, connectivity and reliable power.  Its initial 160 acre site acquisition and 480MW+ of computing power at Grayslake’s Cornerstone Innovation Park represents Lake County’s largest datacenter project to date.  The new Grayslake campus is designed to meet the growing demand for large-scale data center capacity in support of cloud and artificial intelligence workloads. Expect additional announcements on this project later this year.

YMER TECHNOLOGIES

After working with LCP to seal the deal, Ymer Technologies relocated from Texas to Lake County and cut the ribbon on a 80,000 square foot HQ facility at 1100 Asbury Drive, Buffalo Grove.  Taking advantage of Chicagoland’s unmatched location and exceptional workforce, Ymer produces its cooling technology and thermal management systems for EVs in support of Illinois’ booming clean energy economy. 

SYSMEX AMERICA

Medical diagnostic equipment manufacturer Sysmex America, is investing $20.6 million dollars into the company’s Lake County facilities in Lincolnshire and Buffalo Grove to grow its high precision and automation systems and enhance lab efficiency and accuracy.  With the addition of 110 new employees and retention of 550 existing employees, this expansion underscores Sysmex’s commitment to the community and dedication to innovation and improving patient outcomes.

THOMAS FOODS

Australian-based Thomas Foods International enters the Midwest meat and seafood market with its acquisition of a 60,000 square foot manufacturing plant at 924 Sherwood Drive in the Village of Lake Bluff.  With operations beginning in 2025, this $28 million dollar investment adds 108 employees to Lake County’s workforce. 

ZF SERVICES

When assessing the best location for their North American HQ, ZF Services recognized that its existing home at 777 Hickory Hill Drive, Vernon Hills was always the “right place.”  Lake County’s exceptional workforce, highly accessible location, robust talent training institutions, and supportive local, county, and state partners secured the retention of ZF’s 250 local employees via a lease renewal on the 290,000 square feet facility.

AZ POLYMERS

In recognizing the value of Lake County’s workforce talent, optical grade plastic manufacturer AZ Polymers acquired its second site in Gurnee to expand its local operations by an additional 75,000 square feet.  This $10 million dollar facility will add 10 new employees and serve AZ’s warehouse and distribution needs while simultaneously allowing for installation of a third production line at their manufacturing plant.

BECOME ONE OF OUR SUCCESS STORIES

The good news doesn’t end here. Keep an eye on our social media, blog and news to learn more about growing your business in Lake County, Illinois. We have over 25 years of experience driving economic growth and the resources needed to take your company to the next level. Connect with us to tap into our free services here. 

Gracefully Empowering the Next Generation of Lake County Leaders

, Date: January 8, 2025

When Grace Network co-founders Sarah and Ryan Airola turned their attention to Lake County, Illinois, the goal was to apply the same model that they have successfully employed in Chicago since 2021. The nonprofit has been addressing hygiene insecurity by collecting, packaging and providing supplies for kids in need. In the process, the Grace Network (TGN) is boosting their dignity, self-worth and ability to apply themselves and grow.

“Since founding the Grace Network, we have made significant inroads in Chicago, supplying 6000+ students with over a quarter million hygiene products a year through 110 participating schools,” says Sarah. “It wouldn’t have been possible without the support of business leaders and volunteers who have helped us purchase and package the kits and scale up to increase our impact. Lake County has such a strong business base, and so it was a natural progression to expand our efforts into the community. We’ve already had a warm reception and found plenty of partnership opportunities.”

“We have already seen first-hand the impact the Grace Network has made in Lake County,” said Natalie Airola, program manager of community affairs at Northwestern Medicine Lake Forest Hospital. “Our nursing staff got together and participated in a recent packing event, helping to put together hygiene kits for local students in need. It was important for staff to see that healthcare goes beyond a doctor’s office or hospital—having those basic hygiene needs addressed will help to reduce potential health issues and remove the barrier it causes to education for students. We look forward to our continued work with them to help the overall health in our community.”

Now in Phase 2 of its growth, TGN is expanding its care measures even more. “Our expanded 3-year intervention plan includes a new set of activities that will build on what we already do,” Sarah explains. In addition to providing hygiene supplies, TGN is introducing educational activities and has already added laundry services with washers and dryers for student use in 22 schools.

To ensure sustainability for all the programs, “we are working to develop new partnerships and strengthen existing ones at local and national levels,” she adds. TGN is also creating a data collection and evaluation process, to measure whether interventions are meeting mission goals.

Among the new goals? Within the next three years, TGN hopes to add another 40 partner schools, double distribution of hygiene items (including dental care, feminine products, soap, socks and underwear) to half a million in Chicagoland, and implement educational programs designed to raise awareness and demonstrate hygiene practices. “We are aiming for long-term behavioral changes, and hoping to involve parents in these educational programs,” Sarah explains.

“It is difficult for students to reach their educational and social-emotional goals if their basic needs are not being met. The Grace Network helps us address this amongst our students.” Said Preston Kendall, President of Cristo Rey St. Martin.

In early 2024, TGN launched a “care kits” initiative to build and distribute up to 10,000 kits, filled with essential hygiene products, through their school network. Much of their support for this initiative comes from corporate partners looking to host in-office volunteer programming for staff. In November of 2024, TGN surpassed their goal by packing 11,500 kits through corporate partners such as William Blair, Antares Capital, Optiver US & Northwestern Medicine.

“As students mature and learn how to apply themselves, they face many challenges. At the Grace Network, we want to leverage local leadership to alleviate the burden of hygiene insecurity so that the kids can focus on growth opportunities and enjoy the high quality of life for which Chicagoland is known,” Sarah concludes.

Get involved in empowering Lake County youth and shaping the community’s next generation of leaders. Click here to get involved with the Grace Network, and click here to connect with us and learn more about how we can help your business tap into the community and grow.

Lake County’s Recipe For Economic Strength

, Date: September 17, 2024

We have become well known for our Big Event over the years, and several years ago we embarked on a smaller, more intimate celebration with our closest partners, and we titled it “Invested Together.” The evening is a celebration of Lake County’s spirit of collaboration, and a testament to our appreciation for the many partners that make our work to fuel economic development possible. We host exciting groundbreakings, ribbon cuttings and other events all year long, but Invested Together is our opportunity to do what we do best: bring together the public and private sectors to reflect on our wins and inspire us all to build on our strategic work to strengthen Lake County’s economy.

At Invested Together this year, we were thrilled to again celebrate another record-breaking streak of wins. As a direct result of Lake County Partners’ work, we have fueled 4,400 new jobs, retained nearly 4,800 jobs and driven $1.2 BILLION dollars in direct investment in the community over the last 5 years. With plenty of projects in the pipeline, particularly in key industries like life science and manufacturing, sustainability, and energy, we are continuing to build on the momentum this year.

So far in 2024, Lake County Partners’ work has driven $204 million in direct investment—primarily in manufacturing and more recently in datacenter projects.

From the groundbreaking at Midwest Industrial Funds’ new corporate center in Libertyville, to ribbon cuttings at RealWheels, Ymer Technology and major announcements at Henry Broch Foods, Roncadin, Carlson Labs, Nemera and others, the year has been busy.

The result of the activity has been a promising surge in jobs. Last year, Lake County Partners was directly involved in the creation of nearly 800 new jobs, and the retention of over 500 existing jobs. This year, we’re already at an additional 312 new jobs and 259 retained jobs in which we’ve played a direct role. These aren’t just numbers—they are real people with real opportunities, and they’re all contributing to our vibrant, thriving economy.

We are particularly proud to report that several of our most recent wins have included expansions of manufacturers who located in Lake County in just the past few years, such as AZ Polymers. Not to be outdone, our more tenured manufacturers like Polar Wire, ZF Industries and others, also continue to reinvest and expand throughout Lake County.

Lake County’s key industries of advanced manufacturing, technology, and life sciences represents a potent mix of innovation and high-quality jobs. Employers are at the forefront of new trends, and local educational partners are more than keeping pace. Talent continues to be the main consideration for growing businesses, and fortunately, this is where Lake County shines.

Lake County’s success is deeply rooted in its commitment to workforce development. Investment in education and training programs has been pivotal in preparing residents for the job market. Through partnerships brokered by Lake County Partners and Lake County Workforce Development, and the ingenuity of partners at educational institutions like the College of Lake County, the Tech Campus, Rosalind Franklin University and Lake Forest College, we have collectively forged new opportunities to nurture talent, leverage our abundant industry leaders, and bring employers and prospective employees together.

Lake County schools, coupled with a groundbreaking approach to workforce development, high quality of life, deep bench of talent, unique mix of businesses, and commitment to equitable growth have captured the attention of those in Illinois, and outside of it.

Lake County has so much to leverage when it comes to business attraction, and we continue to reach new audiences thanks to the Greater Chicagoland Economic Partnership—formed through an alliance with our counterparts in the region.

None of this would be possible without the support of our investors and the collaborative efforts of our community’s government, business and community leaders. As we have solidified the long term competitiveness of the Chicagoland region, our close ties have been crucial in helping us to address complex challenges—such as housing growth, early childhood education and economic mobility—and leverage our collective strengths to achieve common goals.

The spirit of partnership and innovation that defines Lake County has been a driving force behind Lake County Partners’ accomplishments. By working together, we’ve created a supportive environment where ideas can flourish, businesses can grow, rewarding new jobs can be created, and transformative projects can come to life.

Much of this is owed to community leaders who are responsive, efficient, forward-thinking, financially responsible, and committed to policies and investments that support Lake County’s vibrant municipalities, residents and businesses.

Infrastructure is the backbone of economic development. Each year, local government makes substantial investments in Lake County’s networks through projects aimed at enhancing roadways, supporting public transit, and strengthening connectivity.

Lake County’s transportation system is vast, and it is also state-of-the-art. Roads, bridges, sidewalks and bike paths are part of an incredible network that makes it easy for everyone to safely and efficiently travel in Lake County.

Strategic work plans add resiliency to our systems, address climate change and improve stormwater management systems to reduce flooding on roadways and protect businesses, schools, and homes. The work completed by the Stormwater Management Commission (SMC) not only improves our infrastructure, but it also helps to protect the quality of our water for work and recreation.

Lake County’s environmental stewardship goes hand-in-hand with economic growth. Initiatives focusing on green building practices, energy efficiency, and sustainable land use are at the forefront of local priorities. This is on display with Lake County’s C-PACE partner program, which enables commercial property owners to get 100% financing for eligible improvements such as HVAC, lighting, and solar system improvements in existing buildings and for new construction.

The community has a demonstrated desire to foster healthy buildings and healthy people. Programs like C-PACE and Solar Switch, and initiatives related to healthcare, 211, digital growth and Regional 911 consolidation, guarantee that Lake County remains at the forefront of sustainability and residents and businesses enjoy a higher quality of life.

The future is promising, and we invite you to connect with us to see how we can help you be a part of Lake County’s impressive legacy.

Ymer Technology Celebrates Relocation from Houston to Lake County, Illinois

, Date: August 27, 2024

Ymer Technology, a manufacturer of electric vehicle (EV) components for the heavy equipment industry, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), Lake County Partners, and the Village of Buffalo Grove, announced the grand opening of its new U.S. headquarters in Buffalo Grove. The company’s $5.7 million investment, bolstered by a Reimagining Energy and Vehicles in Illinois (REV Illinois) agreement, will enable Ymer Technology to produce cooling technology and thermal management systems for EVs while supporting Illinois’ clean energy economy.

“Illinois’ future is electric, and we’re leading the charge and open for business,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “I’m proud to welcome Ymer Technology to our great state. Their cooling technology and thermal management systems will not only enhance our EV supply chain, they will help us make EVs more affordable, create good jobs, and grow our clean energy economy.”

Founded in 2005 in Stockholm, Sweden, Ymer Technology chose to relocate from Houston to Lake County to take advantage of Chicagoland’s unmatched location, industry leaders, and the State’s REV incentive program. This is the first in a series of planned expansions for the company.

“We are thrilled to welcome Ymer Technology to Illinois as they join our thriving clean energy community,” said Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton. “Ymer’s investment is a significant step forward in our journey to create a greener, more equitable future, and we are excited to see the positive impact they will have on our state’s economy and environment.”

The State joined Lake County Partners and other local leaders in taking Ymer Technology leadership and staff on a tour of sites throughout Illinois, and within two weeks the company selected this strategic location in Buffalo Grove. Shortly after opening its doors in Illinois, Ymer Technology CEO Bjorn Afzelius announced that the company has already inked its first deal.

“We completed an exhaustive nationwide search for a new U.S. location,” said Frederik Peterson, the Founder of Ymer Technology. “The Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, Lake County Partners, and the Village of Buffalo Grove worked together to support our site selection and assembled an attractive offer that highlights Illinois’ talent, work ethic, favorable climate and vast network of EV leaders.”

“Illinois is a leader in the clean energy economy, and our competitive incentives continue to support companies working toward our shared clean energy goals,” said Kristin Richards, the Director of the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity. “Ymer Technology highlights the REV program at work – the State made the company’s relocation to Illinois seamless and opened the doors to a world-class workforce, friendly business climate, and high quality of life. In turn, Ymer Technology is significantly investing in our community, creating new jobs, and demonstrating potential for future growth in Illinois.”

As the latest company to join Illinois’ innovative EV space, Ymer Technology will provide critical cooling technology to all-battery vehicles. The company is a critical addition to the hundreds of companies across Illinois supplying components to the automotive industry.

“In Illinois, Ymer will find a unique ecosystem of like-minded clean energy companies committed to a sustainable future,” said Intersect Illinois Interim CEO Paulina San Millan. “We’re thrilled that Ymer chose Illinois for its U.S. headquarters, where the state’s access to talent, its central location and infrastructure, and its network of support will allow the company to thrive.”

“Ymer Technology’s investment showcases Lake County’s rich tradition of manufacturing—a $20 billion industry and the largest contributor to our gross regional product,” noted Lake County Board Chair Sandy Hart. “We join the state in prioritizing new jobs and sustainability. Ymer is a global leader in this sector, and we are especially excited to welcome them to our community because their products directly support our goals to reduce carbon emissions, increase renewable energy and address climate change.”

With its commitment to investing $5.7 million and creating more than 30 jobs, Ymer Technology will receive Reimagining Energy and Vehicles (REV) incentives from DCEO. REV provides competitive incentives for EV, solar, renewable and energy storage manufacturers to move or expand in Illinois. A link to the executed REV agreement can be found here.

“I am grateful to the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, Intersect Illinois, and Lake County Partners for their efforts to find Ymer Technology the perfect home, right here in Buffalo Grove – a regional leader in advanced manufacturing. I’m thrilled that Ymer will bring more jobs to our community, where advanced manufacturing maintains the largest share of our workforce,” said Village President Eric Smith. “BG welcomes Ymer Technology to the community.”

“It’s wonderful to see a company that was founded abroad choose Lake County as its new home, and score a major win as soon as their team settled in,” said Steve Madden, the Chair of Lake County Partners’ Board of Governors and CEO of Libertyville Bank & Trust. “Ymer Technology is a prime example of what happens when Illinois’ strong leaders work together to leverage our nationally-recognized assets and attract new business.”

Illinois is home to more than 1,000 companies across the EV supply chain and has the infrastructure to support continued growth, having invested more than $45 billion in modernizing roads, bridges, airports, ports and universities through 2025. A top-10 producer of engineering, computer science, and precision production talent in the U.S., the State has invested more than $180 million in renewable energy workforce training since 2021 through its Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA) alone, and works closely with EV manufacturers and community colleges to build the EV workforce of tomorrow.

Your Business Could Be The Next To Celebrate

We have over 25 years of experience connecting business leaders with free resources to expand in and relocate to Lake County, Illinois. Click here to connect with us and see how we can help your company grow.

The Changing Face of Healthcare in Lake County

, Date: June 17, 2024

Representation matters, especially in healthcare. The strongest healthcare systems thrive on ethnographic diversity among practitioners. They should reflect the communities they serve.

“Diversity in healthcare is not just a matter of fairness; it’s about improving outcomes for everyone,” notes Anne King, Director, Community Affairs at Northwestern Memorial HealthCare. “When patients see healthcare professionals who look like them and understand their cultural backgrounds, it fosters trust and leads to better health outcomes.”

Systemic inequities can underlie poor health outcomes, which is why widespread access to affordable, high-quality healthcare across Lake County is so important. Equally important is making sure that these healthcare systems can recruit from a robust and diverse talent pipeline.

In the field of nursing, U.S. Census data shows that Black and Latinx nurses, who represent 30% of the population, only account for 17% of the healthcare workforce nationwide. In Lake County, this challenge presents opportunities to engage new recruits and serve the community more effectively.

As a partner in the regional workforce ecosystem, the College of Lake County (CLC) seized the opportunity to proudly became an inaugural member of the Illinois Pipeline for the Advancement of Healthcare Workforce (PATH) initiative. This state-wide grant program aims to create, support, and expand opportunities for individuals, particularly those in historically overlooked areas, to obtain credentials and degrees, enabling them to enter or advance their careers in the healthcare industry.

Listening to feedback from workforce providers and advisory boards, CLC identified short and long-term credentials to cultivate desirable qualifications for future healthcare employees. The PATH initiative strategically aims to increase student diversity in healthcare programs and promote inclusion.

“Through initiatives like PATH, we’re not only addressing the pressing need for a more diverse healthcare workforce but also taking tangible steps toward creating a more equitable healthcare landscape in Lake County,” said CLC Vice President for Educational Affairs Dr. Kristen Jones.

With a commitment from the state of Illinois to enhance healthcare diversity and improve outcomes for underserved communities, the PATH grant embarked on an ambitious journey. In the first year alone, CLC surpassed its goals by recruiting more than 1,000 students across 10 targeted healthcare programs – students that will go on to support Lake County’s vibrant healthcare industry and enjoy rewarding careers.

Since the inception of PATH in 2023, nearly 100 new nurses, 600 new nurse assistants, and over 200 new emergency medical technicians (EMTs) have entered the workforce. A majority of students in eligible healthcare programs identify as an ethnicity other than white.

“The PATH initiative is not just about increasing enrollment numbers; it’s about creating pathways for diverse students to enter and excel in the healthcare field. It’s about breaking barriers and providing opportunities for those who have been underrepresented,” said CLC Dean of Biological and Health Sciences Jeet Saini.

Through initiatives like PATH, CLC is not only addressing the pressing need for a more diverse healthcare workforce but also taking tangible steps to support Lake County’s nationally recognized healthcare systems, both now, and in the future. Learn more about PATH here, and connect with us here to see how we can help your company tap into Lake County talent.

10 Hours Is All It Takes To Transform Your Business

, Date: June 11, 2024

In a world where the boundaries between education and industry are often rigid, Lake County stands out for its strong network of collaborative partners who band together to empower youth with real-world skills inside and out of the classroom. The nonprofit organization Give Me 10 is a profound example of this incredible fusion of industry and workforce development. Founded by a visionary educator, Sue Dickson at Closs Tire & Auto, this initiative has blossomed over the past seven years, reshaping the landscape of career and technical education.

It all began with a simple yet powerful idea: to cultivate collaboration between academia and business. Sue grew up in the automotive business, watching her father grow his small shop in Waukegan. When he passed the company on to her, she tackled the issue of finding trained technicians head-on. She quickly met with the Lake County Tech Campus, offering help to establish a new internship program.

What has developed since then is nothing short of remarkable. The Give Me 10 program provides a work-based learning model that any industry can use to bridge the skills gap. It combines classroom instruction with on-the-job opportunities that provide a seamless introduction to the career path chosen by the student. It simplifies the relationship between business and vocational education, at no cost. Instead, the program relies on the donation of time, which is used to help integrate students into businesses and grow new employees.

“Give Me 10 gives students hands-on experience to prepare them for the workforce,” notes Ms. Dickson. “We started with six kids interning at local shops, and over the years we have fine-tuned the program and it is now a talent pipeline for 35 automotive repair shops, and businesses in other industries too. This growth was made possible through strategic partnerships, including collaboration with Lake County Workforce Development, which secured federal grant money to fund work-based learning initiatives.”

Over $600,000 in WIOA federal grant money directly supports students in their work-based learning endeavors, paving the way for a seamless transition from education to employment.

“One of the key principles of Give Me 10 is its commitment to empowering students,” notes Jennifer Serino, the Executive Director at Lake County Workforce Development. “Unlike traditional models where grants often benefit the institutions, here the focus is on the students themselves.”

“The program’s impact extends beyond individual success stories,” observes Derrick Burress, the Principal at Lake County Tech Campus. “By embracing all career pathways at the tech campus, Give Me 10 has become a cornerstone of career and technical education. From automotive and collision repair to culinary arts and construction management, students are exposed to a diverse array of opportunities, empowering them to pursue their passions and unlock their full potential.”

Central to Give Me 10’s philosophy is the idea of reciprocity. Through the “10-hour donation” program, local businesses give back to the community by providing mentorship and guidance to students. This symbiotic relationship not only enriches the educational experience but also strengthens ties within the community.

The program’s commitment to giving back is exemplified through initiatives like the Mother’s Trust and Tool Scholarship Fund. By raffling off the refurbished car and donating the proceeds, Give Me 10 not only supports charitable causes but also reinvests in the future of education.

One of the highlights of Give Me 10 is the Tech Campus Car project. Now in its third year, this initiative not only serves as a practical learning experience but also fosters community engagement. Students take a donated car through the entire repair process, from start to finish, honing their skills, getting invested in the project, and sparking conversations about their capabilities and long-term career goals.

Building strong relationships with industry partners is crucial to the success of Give Me 10. Through presentations and roadshows, the program simplifies the value proposition for educational partners, emphasizing the importance of growing one’s own employees from the ground up. This collaborative approach fosters a sense of ownership and investment in the students’ success.

As Give Me 10 continues to evolve, it remains committed to its core mission of transforming education and empowering communities. With private donations supporting students’ financial needs and on-the-job training opportunities paving the way for meaningful careers, the program is poised to shape the future of career and technical education for years to come.

In a world where learning is often confined to the walls of a classroom, Give Me 10 provides a breath of fresh air, and a future for students who might have otherwise not found the direction they needed to forge rewarding careers and hone their ambitions. Learn more about Give Me 10 here, and connect with us here to see how we can help you leverage Lake County’s incredible workforce.

First Half of 2024 Marked With Major Investments & Economic Growth

, Date: June 4, 2024

Lake County Partners is fortunate to have the unique position of working with local leaders to enhance Lake County’s economy, support business and make sure the community is positioned for equitable prosperity. The first six months of 2024 have been a particularly successful continuation of one of the best runs of economic development in county history, as measured by job growth and investment.

In the past 5 years, LCP has fueled 4,400 new jobs, retained nearly 4,800 jobs and driven $1.2 BILLION dollars in direct investment in the community. With plenty of projects in the pipeline, particularly in key industries like life science and manufacturing, sustainability and energy, we are expecting an equally busy back half of the year.

Along with the success has come the recognition. Site Selection Magazine recently named Chicagoland the top metro in the U.S. for corporate relocation and site selection for the 11th consecutive year. Illinois is #2 in the nation for corporate projects. Lake County has certainly played a role in this honor.

CNBC, too, has ranked Illinois among the top in the nation for business, U.S. News and World Report has recognized Lake County schools among the best in the nation, with a headline that could have been plucked from our promotional material – “Best High Schools in the U.S.: Lake County Schools Lead the Way in Illinois.”

Education is what truly sets Lake County apart. Local schools are highly skilled at training the next generation of talent, and preparing students for success. For some, that might mean helping them go on to 2 or 4-year college. For others, it means creating bold new career pathways. In fact, Lake County has emerged as a leader in Career and Technical Education, in Illinois and the nation.

Lake County schools are stronger because they have support from corporate citizens like AbbVie—the company helped fund the new Neal Math and Science Academy in North Chicago, which opened one year ago. This is just one of many examples of the public-private partnerships that fortify Lake County’s workforce pipeline and bolster key industries like life science.

Chicagoland continues to rank top in the Midwest and among the top 10 biopharma clusters in the U.S. In fact, the industry’s success in the region spurred the Chan Zuckerberg Foundation to commit $250 million to boosting life science technology in Illinois. At the same time, we’ve seen huge grants awarded to researchers at Rosalind Franklin University to advance cutting-edge medicine.

We can’t applaud our educational systems without acknowledging the huge role that higher education plays in our economy. The homegrown talent coming out of Rosalind Franklin University, the College of Lake County and Lake Forest College is a game-changer for local employers, including our major health systems, which have been ranked among the top in the state by U.S. News and World Report.

Lake County has so much to leverage when it comes to business attraction, and Lake County Partners is reaching new audiences thanks to the Greater Chicagoland Economic Partnership—formed through an alliance with our counterparts in the region. Since its inception, the partnership has been invaluable in helping us create new connections and opportunities, both in the region and across the globe.

Indeed, Lake County, Illinois’ economy is in excellent shape. Over the last several years, Lake County’s Gross Domestic Product has grown 17.2%, reaching $76.4 billion. Real GDP was also up 2% in the same time frame. The GDP metric is considered the gold standard measure of overall economic activity because it accounts for the value of the final goods and services produced in an area.

Other economic indicators also give us plenty to celebrate. Not only does Lake County’s number of businesses now exceed pre-pandemic levels, but there are more people employed in Lake County than at this same point last year. Growth has been particularly prominent in key industries like advanced manufacturing, life science, healthcare and professional and technical services.

Business growth, coupled with a tight labor market, has further reinforced our laser-focus on talent development and business outreach. We are grateful to have your support and our partnerships with Lake County, the College of Lake County, the Tech Campus and area high schools in this endeavor. Thoughtful partnerships and a strategic work plan have always been the bedrock of Lake County Partners’ mission, and will be particularly important as we stand poised for future growth.

Economic projections from our partners at World Business Chicago indicate that we can expect to see a 20% increase in metro area GDP by 2028, and Lake County will enjoy another 1% uptick in jobs in that same time frame. Top sub-industries projected to grow include management and advanced manufacturing.

Economic growth is certain to be bolstered by local spending power. In 2023, consumer spending totaled $32.1 billion, which made the local business ecosystem the third largest by county in the entire state of Illinois, and roughly 15.9% of the entire metro area. This figure is expected to go up, with forecasts projecting an additional 12.8% spend over the next five years.

Chicagoland raised $4.73 billion in growth capital in 2023—including $2.61 billion in venture capital and $2.12 billion in private equity. Although this is a drop from the unprecedented levels of capital raised in 2021 and 2022, the volume of deals remained steadier in Chicago between 2022 and 2023: there were just 8 percent fewer deals in 2023, the smallest drop among compared metro areas.

Growth capital investment has been particularly powerful in fueling many of the same key industries that support Lake County’s economy— industrials, healthtech, fintech, manufacturing and life sciences. In 2023, Lake County companies raised nearly $140 million in growth capital through just 16 deals in these areas.

This has had favorable implications for commercial real estate, with Lake County seeing more than 22 investments in spaces of 20,000 sq. ft. or more in 2022. As of Q1 2024, Lake County has already seen a net absorption of over a quarter of a million sq. ft. of industrial space, and there is another 335,000 sq. ft. under construction through state-of-the-art projects happening in communities across the county.

It has been a very busy time, but one that is incredibly rewarding as well. Creating connections is at the heart of what Lake County Partners does, which is why a core focus of ours is meeting directly with business leaders to provide customized resources that they can leverage to grow. Lake County is fortunate to have many strong corporate leaders that work with the organization, and each other, and choose to invest in the community. It is because of them that Lake County has such a rich history of business success. Click here to connect with us and learn how your company can join in the success by leveraging our free resources.

Valent BioSciences Celebrates Expansion in Libertyville

, Date: May 30, 2024

LCP joined Valent BioSciences in celebrating the grand opening of the new Venburg Wing at the company’s Melnik and Shafer Biorational Research Center in Libertyville, Illinois, during a special ceremony. The event included remarks by Valent BioSciences senior leaders, local government and economic development officials, a ribbon cutting, plaque dedication, and refreshments for attendees and company employees.

Driven by business growth that has accelerated the need for additional research and development facilities, the state-of-the-art Venburg Wing includes new laboratory and pilot plant areas, offices, and meeting rooms. The space is named after Dr. Greg Venburg, Senior Director, Global Research at Valent BioSciences, who has served in a variety of leadership positions for the past 33 years. He currently manages the company’s interdisciplinary scientific research programs and research staff.

“This new wing in the Melnik and Shafer Biorational Research Center honors Greg’s many accomplishments over his long and distinguished career,” said Salman Mir, President and CEO of Valent BioSciences. “He has served in various R&D leadership roles and overseen the research, development, and introduction of major biorational technologies and products. Greg was also central to the planning, design, and construction of this facility and provided essential vision and leadership in forming the research teams working to develop innovative solutions to new and emerging biorational needs and opportunities. His contributions have been essential in helping us strengthen our industry leadership position.”

“I want to extend my congratulations to Valent BioSciences as they embark on this exciting expansion,” said Lake County Board Chair Sandy Hart. “Lake County is at the heart of life science and advanced manufacturing innovation because we have the talent, infrastructure, and resources to support growing companies and the quality of life their employees are looking for.”

“I’m thrilled to celebrate the Valent BioSciences expansion and am grateful for the firm’s long presence and continued investment in our community,” said Donna Johnson, Mayor, Village of Libertyville. “This is an example of the many innovative firms that continue to be attracted to the Village of Libertyville given the skilled employment base, strategic location, and supportive business environment.”

Through years of operating locally, Valent BioSciences’ leadership has become intimately familiar with all that Lake County has to offer businesses. The company’s decision to expand locally is a reflection of the community’s abundant talent, ideal location and high quality of life. These attributes have made Lake County a natural choice for companies looking to grow.

Likewise, Lake County’s strength is a direct reflection of responsible corporate citizens like Valent BioSciences, who take the time to work in the community to make a difference through in-kind and financial donations as well as volunteer support. At the ribbon cutting, local leaders stressed their appreciation of Valent BioSciences’ thoughtful approach to the environment, food security, community health and STEM education.

In particular, County Board Chair Sandy Hart thanked Valent BioSciences for its long-standing support of the Lake County Forest Preserves, where company employees removed invasive buckthorn to help us restore Rollins Savanna – one of the county’s largest prairie restoration projects, designed to create a natural habitat for grassland birds, waterfowl, and other wildlife. The company has also advanced the annual seed collection initiative by harvesting rare seeds that are being used in various Forest Preserve restoration projects; in fact, more than 300 seedlings have been donated and new gardening beds have been built for GreenTown Grows, a nonprofit community garden in Waukegan that has been providing local food pantries with fresh produce since 2007.

In Vernon Hills, Valent BioScience scientists joined a Lake County STEM for Girls event for hands-on experiences. From using microscopes to exploring thumbprints, they introduced students to fermented foods, microbes, and agriculture pests and inspired a new generation of leaders. Those examples, coupled with the company’s annual charity walk to support the Special Education District of Lake County, its team’s volunteer hours spent packing meals at Feed My Starving Children and blood drives and donations to CASA Lake County have made Valent BioSciences a prime example of the major impact that companies can have when the take the time and put forth the effort to invest in the community.

Valent BioSciences is also undertaking a major expansion at its Osage, Iowa, manufacturing facility that will be completed in early 2025. The additions include new production-scale fermentation and recovery equipment, a new pilot plant facility, and expanded laboratory space. To support its sustainability initiatives, the company has restored 34 acres of native prairie land adjacent to the Osage facility that will sequester approximately 170 metric tons of carbon dioxide annually, helping mitigate the effects of greenhouse gases in the environment. The company also operates a 12-acre solar field on land adjacent to the prairie that provides a portion of the Osage facility’s total annual electricity usage.

Headquartered in Libertyville, Illinois, Valent BioSciences is a subsidiary of Tokyo-based Sumitomo Chemical Co., Ltd. Valent BioSciences is a global leader in the research, development, manufacturing, and commercialization of biorational products and technologies used in agriculture, public health, and forest health. Through its expertise in bioscience, Valent BioSciences helps growers profitably sustain their land and legacies and protects the public from insect-borne disease. The company has more than 60 years of experience bringing biorational products to market in more than 95 countries worldwide. Valent BioSciences is also the parent company of Mycorrhizal Applications LLC, a leading supplier of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi-based products.

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Empowering Lake County Students: A Path To Success

, Date: May 7, 2024

As the landscape of education evolves, so too does the responsibility to equip students with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in the workforce. In Lake County, Illinois, Grayslake Community High School District 127 (D127) has been at the forefront of pioneering a groundbreaking endorsement process aimed at preparing students for successful careers. As a result of D127’s innovative administrative leaders, other schools in the county look to follow suit, the initiative is gaining momentum, thanks to dedicated efforts and collaborative partnerships.

The journey began with Grayslake D127’s commitment to providing students with opportunities to explore career pathways aligned with their interests and talents. Spearheading this effort, Gina Schuyler, alongside partners in the Lake County Workforce Ecosystem, including Lake County Partners, Lake County Workforce Development, and Regional Superintendent Dr. Michael Karner, initiated discussions to garner support for the initiative and establish best practices.

“We recognized the potential impact of such an endorsement process, especially in light of a new House Bill proposing its implementation in all Illinois schools,” noted Dr. Michael Karner, the Regional Superintendent of Schools. “Gina Schuyler has been at the forefront of career pathway innovation, and so the Regional Office of Education (ROE) contracted with her to learn from her expertise and help other Lake County schools adopt a similar framework. In the end, our students stand to benefit tremendously.”

Gina’s recent representation of Lake County schools at the Youth Build Conference in Washington DC, alongside Jennifer Serino from Workforce Development, Jacob Cushing from College of Lake County (CLC), and Marcus Jordan from the Department of Labor, has further solidified partnerships and opened doors for Lake County’s involvement in the Career Z Challenge.

“The Career Z Challenge, a national initiative aimed at promoting career readiness and workforce development, presents an exciting opportunity for Lake County to showcase its commitment to preparing students for the future,” observed Dr. Karner. “This challenge not only highlights the innovative approaches adopted by schools like Grayslake D127 but also offers the chance to secure resources and recognition to further enhance career education initiatives across the county.”

One significant aspect of this journey has been the invaluable support from the business community. By engaging local business leaders and showcasing the exceptional talent pool within Lake County, schools have fostered partnerships that benefit both students and employers. Initiatives such as the Nuts, Bolts & Thingamajigs Middle School grant awarded to Grayslake D127 have provided students with hands-on experiences in manufacturing, paving the way for future collaborations and opportunities. This year’s summer event filled in less than a day.

The impact of these efforts is evident in the growing ecosystem of support for career education and workforce development in Lake County. From professional development opportunities for teachers to student-led challenges that bridge the gap between education and industry, Lake County is fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and success.

As a result of a professional development exercise that Grayslake D127 hosted for Tech Ed teachers, Mundelein took the lead and hosted the first ever METT Team Challenge held at the College of Lake County’s Advanced Technology Center.

“Community members from the manufacturing, engineering, technology and trades came to assess student work and provide mentorship,” observed Dr. Anthony Kroll, Mundelein High School’s Assistant Superintendent. “These events are critical because they expose students to new ideas while simultaneously helping local employers tap into Lake County’s vast talent pipeline.”

As the community continues to invest in the future of its students, such partnerships and initiatives will pave the way for a brighter, more prosperous tomorrow for Lake County, the state of Illinois, and beyond. Together, impassioned educators like Gina Schuyler are shaping the next generation of leaders, innovators, and change-makers, ensuring that they are equipped to thrive in the ever-evolving landscape of the 21st-century workforce.

Pioneering Packaging Excellence In Lake County, Illinois

, Date: May 7, 2024

At Lake County Partners’ upcoming Big Event, 500+ business and community leaders will gather to honor the year’s Community Investment Award winner: Josh Fischer and his team at Fischer Paper Products.

In Lake County’s bustling world of business, Fischer Paper Products stands out not only for its long-term success story, having spent 50+ years evolving to meet the packaging needs of its clients from its home base in Antioch, but also for its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and community impact.

Fischer Paper Products is a third-generation, family-owned company known for its high-quality, food-safe paper packaging products, predominantly used in the food service industry by well-known chains like Culver’s, In-N-Out, Kwik Trip, Circle K, Sysco, US Foods and others. Each year, the company manufactures over 2 billion bags, including its iconic Cris P. Tater French fry bag commonly found in restaurants across the Midwest.

From its headquarters in Antioch, Fischer Paper Products employs more than 140, including 60+ skilled workers responsible for operating its 22 paper packaging machines. The company moved into the 175,000 sq. ft. state-of-the-art facility in 2020 to accommodate seven additional production lines, creating 50 new jobs and space for future growth as well. The project represented a major long-term investment and commitment to the Lake County community.

“Fischer Paper Products is an exemplary corporate partner,” said Antioch Mayor Scott J. Gartner. “The company’s commitment isn’t merely financial. Their team puts the time and energy into developing highly-skilled employees and providing them with rewarding careers. They give back in meaningful ways outside of their offices too. We were grateful for their financial support of the Treehouse Community Playground, which will open in the village this summer and promote inclusive play for local children.”

At the heart of Fischer Paper Products’ success is its team. Fischer’s leadership relies on Lake County’s strong talent pipeline to create and execute new ideas and stay ahead of industry trends. The company takes pride in its number of long-term employees, some of whom have been with the business for over 35 years.

In the broader community, President and Owner Josh Fischer has sat on the Lake County Workforce Development Board for the past 4 years, and Laura Walker, the company’s Human Resources Manager, is a founding member of the Industrial Technology Advisory Committee, which was established in 2020.

“Fischer Paper Products stands out as one of Lake County’s most committed small businesses,” notes Jennifer Serino, the Executive Director at Lake County Workforce Development. “Josh is a thought leader, collaborating with the Workforce Development Board to lead performance-driven strategies that develop, align and integrate Lake County’s workforce to meet the needs of business today and in the future.”

Fischer Paper Products was also an inaugural member of the College of Lake County (CLC) Manufacturing Alliance Advisory Board, a workforce and economic development initiative to promote a strong, employer-led stakeholder group to enhance Lake County’s talent pipeline, leverage collective resources to address industry challenges, and support local and regional manufacturing sector growth.

“Lake County’s manufacturing community is strong and tight-knit,” observes Josh Fischer. “As business owners, we have countless resources at our fingertips, but we have to work together to capitalize on them and forge even greater opportunities. When the College of Lake County embarked on the build out of its cutting-edge Advanced Technology Center (ATC), we knew we had to get involved to help shape students’ manufacturing skills and ignite their passion for manufacturing.”

According to John Butler, Director of Corporate and Foundation Relations at the College of Lake County, “Fischer is one of CLC’s most holistic corporate partners. Fischer has been generous with its philanthropy, naming the instructional learning lab at the Advanced Technology Center to promote a pipeline of skilled workers and creating the Fischer Paper Products Scholarship, which supports students pursuing an education in CLC’s manufacturing-related career technical programs who have demonstrated financial need.”

Elsewhere in the community, Fischer Paper Products uses donations and drives to support the Northern Illinois Food Bank, the Versiti Blood Center of Illinois, Antioch’s Traveling Closet, Open Arms Mission Food Pantry, the Condell Centre Club and more. It sponsors local events, sports teams and initiatives in many Lake County communities including Antioch, Lake Villa and Lindenhurst.

“There are countless examples why Fischer Paper Products deserves accolades, making the company an easy choice for this year’s Community Investment Award,” said Kevin Considine, Lake County Partners’ president and CEO. “Fischer Paper Products is a model of what it means to give back to the community, and it will be an honor to recognize their team at the Big Event.”