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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.

Businesses Play A Key Role in Preservation of Lake County’s Open Spaces

, Date: July 30, 2024

The Lake County Forest Preserves play a vital role in enhancing the quality of life for the community by providing expansive green spaces for recreation, relaxation, and connection with nature. They offer those who live, work and play in the community a variety of outdoor activities that foster a healthy and active lifestyle. The preserves also boost the economy by attracting visitors and engaging local businesses. In this blog, contributed by Lake County Forest Preserve Executive Director Ty Kovach, we see how companies are playing a role in sustaining this important piece of Lake County’s legacy.

A 33-year-old homemaker with drive and determination, coupled with her son’s desire to explore nature, sparked the creation of the Lake County Forest Preserves a little more than 60 years ago.

Ethel Untermyer was passionate about the outdoors. She moved to Lake County from Chicago in 1952. She wanted to take her 3-year-old son, Frank, and her other children to explore the woods at a forest preserve. When she asked a friend where the nearest one was, she was shocked to learn there were none in Lake County. Meanwhile, Cook County had already protected a significant amount of land.

Untermyer was enthusiastic about protecting nature for everyone to enjoy. To achieve this, she organized a countywide referendum to establish the Lake County Forest Preserve District. The Roosevelt University alumna typed up a petition on her small IBM typewriter. Despite a slow start, with only four people attending her first meeting, she persevered. Untermyer drove her Studebaker around the county, speaking with groups and rallying support.

On November 4, 1958, the referendum succeeded with an overwhelming 60% of votes. About two weeks later, the District was legally established in circuit court.

And in 1961, four years after young Frank asked for a place to explore, the first preserve in Lake County was created: Van Patten Woods in Wadsworth. It was 162 acres at the time. Today it has grown to 973 acres.

As principal guardian of Lake County’s open space and natural areas, the Forest Preserves now manages more than 31,100 acres of natural lands and 209 miles of trails.

The most recent land purchase approved in early July adds about 18.2 acres to expand Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve in Lake Forest.

The U.S. Department of the Navy is selling the $6 million property located on the east side of Patten Road in unincorporated Highwood. It consists of a bluff surrounded on three sides by the ravines of the Openlands Lakeshore Preserve. This 71.5-acre parcel was gifted to the Forest Preserves last summer by Openlands, a Chicago-based regional conservation organization and land trust, as an addition to Fort Sheridan.

“This is a tremendous enhancement for Fort Sheridan,” Executive Director Alex Ty Kovach said. “We’re elated with this result after 11 years of dedicated work, first by Openlands staff and then by the Forest Preserves.”

Once the transaction closes this fall, the acquisition will preserve new land for the public to enjoy and make management of the larger preserve much easier and more cost-effective. The fence surrounding the new property will be removed after closing.

Shaping the Future of the Forest Preserves

Currently, the Forest Preserves does not have the capital funding needed to restore this property and many others. However, if a November 5 referendum passes, dollars will be allocated for developing a master plan for the portions of Fort Sheridan added in the past two years to integrate them into the northern section of the preserve.

Voters will be asked to approve the sale of $155 million in bonds. $65 million will be used for land acquisition and $90 million for public access improvements and habitat restoration. The estimated annual increase on a Lake County home valued at $300,000 is just under $33.

“If approved, the new funding would be used to protect more land and expand the benefits the forest preserves provide to all of us,” Kovach said. A comprehensive list of projects has been created to ensure all areas of the county benefit from the referendum funds.

New funding would be used to:

  • Acquire and restore additional lands to ensure future generations can enjoy them in every part of Lake County;
  • Protect and restore wildlife habitat that is home to native plants and animals, some of which are threatened or endangered; and,
  • Build important trail connections.

Lake County Businesses Boost Beauty & Splendor

The 64 forest preserves in Lake County provide a unique allure for homeowners and businesses, offering picturesque natural settings and recreational opportunities that enhance quality of life. These green spaces not only boost property values but also create an appealing environment for businesses seeking to attract employees and customers.

“Lake County’s forest preserves are not just scenic retreats; they’re vibrant spaces that enhance our communities and drive economic growth,” said Angelo Kyle, president of the Lake County Forest Preserves. “Their beauty and tranquility make our county an exceptional place to live and work.”

In addition, the Forest Preserves collaborates with Lake County businesses that share our mission. These companies work closely with the Preservation Foundation, the 501 (c)(3) charitable partner of the Forest Preserves.

The Foundation established an endowment to ensure the perpetual care of the Forest Preserves restored lands. When the Foundation reaches its $20 million goal, the endowment will generate about $800,000 annually. These funds will support critical land management activities, such as re-treating invasive species, replanting native trees and conducting prescribed burns.

Recent business collaborations include:

  • Abbott Laboratories, headquartered in Lake County, has supported the Forest Preserves for more than 30 years. The company has contributed to the Dunn Museum in Libertyville, various restoration projects and education initiatives. Recently the company also made a sizeable donation to the Ryerson Education Center in Riverwoods. Many Abbott employees also donate, with the company matching their contributions.

  • The Grainger Foundation, an independent, private foundation based in Lake Forest, has provided incredible support for Granger Conservation Area in Mettawa, including more than $1 million for habitat restoration and a $500,000 Grainger Woods Endowment.

  • Libertyville Bank & Trust has sponsored Concerts in the Plaza since 2007 and, together with Lake Forest Bank & Trust, the Lake County institutions have funded educational programming for youth and young adults.

  • Medline joined the list of contributors in 2021 with a generous donation to support the Ryerson Education Center.

  • North Shore Gas has sponsored Concerts in the Plaza since 2007. The company also made multiple gifts to support new educational facilities, including a donation to the Greenbelt Cultural Center in North Chicago, support for the North Shore Gas Classroom at the Dunn Museum and a large gift to support the Ryerson Education Center.

  • USG Foundation’s annual support allows the Dunn Museum to offer free admission on the first and third Thursdays of each month. Many USG employees volunteer their time to help.

  • Valent Biosciences contributes annually and organizes volunteer workdays focused on seed collection and buckthorn removal. In 2022, Valent made an additional monetary donation to remove invasive Callery pear trees at the Forest Preserves’ General Offices in Libertyville, and to plant native hickory and oak trees.

  • Hey and Associates has been supporting the Preservation Foundation since 2011. The company recently contributed to the Blanding’s Turtle Recovery Program and supported a fundraising gala.

  • MBX Systems (now AHEAD Engineered Solutions) has made gifts since 2017, providing critical support for the Annual Fund. They also host a yearly volunteer workday.

“Our aim is to ignite interest and encourage other Lake County companies to protect our quality of life in Lake County by helping the Forest Preserves do more,” said Rebekah Snyder, director of community engagement and partnerships. “With more biodiversity than any other county in Illinois, we work to restore our native habitats–including woodlands, prairies, savannas, wetlands, lakes and streams–to ecological health.”

Get Involved

Learn more about the Lake County Forest Preserves’ corporate partnership program here, and click here to connect with us to see how your company can get more involved in the Lake County community.

How One Lake County Nonprofit is Shaking Up Reverse Logistics To Benefit the Community

, Date: July 26, 2024

Lake County has a strong nonprofit ecosystem and a rich tradition of corporate generosity, making it fertile ground for unique business opportunities with big impact. A perfect example of this is GiveNKind, a group that serves as a sustainable matchmaker for nonprofits, businesses and distributors. In 2023, GiveNKind expanded 92% and celebrated the record-breaking year of growth by opening its new headquarters in Buffalo Grove, Illinois. We asked Founder and Executive Director Emily Petway to collaborate with us and share the stories behind GiveNKind’s success.

Product returns, surplus, close-dated, and out-of-season products cause friction in the supply chain, costing businesses time and money. Finding an environmentally and socially responsible solution can be time-consuming. What if there was a one-stop solution to excess products right in our backyard?

Meet GiveNKind, a Buffalo Grove nonprofit that set out to serve as a bridge between local nonprofits and businesses and distributors that had excess goods. Donation is a sustainable alternative to burning, burying, shipping or otherwise liquidating products that are no longer fit for traditional markets due to seasonality, marketing conflicts, and so forth.

As it turns out, there is a significant need for GiveNKind’s services. Over time, the organization has evolved to solve large-scale resource issues while providing essential resources to thousands. In 2023—its biggest year on record—GiveNKind leveraged its Lake County location to expand 92% and enlist the support of 300+ volunteers who helped place $14.2 million in resources from 160 donating companies with 224 nonprofits.

“Many businesses would like to donate surplus products like apparel or personal healthcare, but it takes time to find the right match depending on the product, quantity, and the nonprofit’s operational capacity,” explained Emily Petway, GiveNKind’s founder and executive director. “We simplify the process to make it more cost-effective and time-efficient for companies to donate products and improve their social and environmental ESG metrics. There are significant financial and environmental advantages for businesses that want to donate goods, including tax benefits and waste reduction.”

GiveNKind manages the logistics of retrieving donated products and transports them to the GiveNKind Center, where they are processed with the help of local volunteers. Products are made available to 501(c)(3) nonprofits that distribute them directly to individuals and families in need. “Products that were once ‘in the wrong place at the wrong time’ are shared with our 600+ nonprofit partners that offer counseling and job-training services, housing and food assistance, early childhood programming, animal rescue, community-building events, and more,” added Petway.

“Lake County is lucky to have so many corporate leaders in reverse logistics,” observed Petway. “For example, one of our largest partners is Walgreens. The company really understands how its donations can positively impact people in our community while also reducing its environmental footprint. It’s a win, win. In another instance, we found a company that was storing pallets of excess socks at a cost of $100 a day, and so we worked with them to take the socks and distribute them to those in need—saving them and the recipient money while putting the socks to good use.”

Over the past several years, GiveNKind has ramped up its operations. To keep up with growth, the organization recently moved to a larger facility in Buffalo Grove and added additional employees. “We’ve been in the Lake County community for over 12 years,” shared Petway. “Our partnerships with the Village of Buffalo Grove, Vernon Township, and Van Vlissingen and Co. have been instrumental in ensuring we have a stable and welcoming space to carry out our mission.

“GiveNKind is really at the forefront of transforming reverse logistics. It’s exciting to see how the organization is reshaping traditional collaborative models to strengthen bonds between nonprofits and business while also creating a blueprint for a more efficient and benevolent product life cycle,” notes Gordon Lamphere, the Director of Sales and Leasing at Van Vlissingen, who also hosts the popular podcast Real Finds. “Van Vlissingen was happy to work with GiveNKind to find a space in Lake County that could support their meaningful work.

“The synergy between GiveNKind and its partners has proven to be a powerful force for good,” shared Anne Bailey, GiveNKind’s Program Manager. “When nonprofits pick up resources from the GiveNKind Center, each has a story about a client that benefitted: school-aged kids received new athletic shoes, a young family received supplies for a new baby, individuals experiencing homelessness received fresh socks and portable food, and rescued animals received their first toys. Our program is a sustainable method that benefits businesses, nonprofits, and the community.”

GiveNKind wants more companies to know about its donation program and more nonprofits to learn about the resources it offers. “We’re grateful to Lake County Partners for including nonprofits in important conversations about our community. We are eager to connect with new partners who have yet to hear about us so that together, we can bring needed resources to neighbors in need.”

Click here to learn more about GiveNKind, and connect with us here so that we can help you explore the many ways that your business can forge a deeper connection with the Lake County community.

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.”

Lake County Partners’ Signature Big Event On Track For Record Success

, Date: May 7, 2024

Lake County Partners is thrilled to announce that it is on track for another sold out “Big Event” at the Lincolnshire Marriott Resort, this Thursday, May 9th. This signature breakfast event will once again bring together hundreds of key stakeholders, business leaders, and innovators from across the region, making it the premier platform for economic growth and collaboration in Lake County.

The Big Event showcases Lake County’s dynamic business community and economic strength, and it is a catalyst for collaboration, idea exchange, inspiration and networking. The program is renowned for its cutting-edge economic development insights, and this year will focus on the monumental impact of artificial intelligence (AI). Keynote Speaker Rajeev Kapur, best-selling author of the book AI Made Simple: A Beginner’s Guide to Generative Intelligence, will present his revolutionary look at the way that AI is transforming society, shaping technology and creating new opportunities.

“We are looking forward to a tremendous turnout and enthusiastic participation this year,” noted Steve Madden, CEO of Libertyville Bank & Trust Company, N.A., and Chair of Lake County Partners’ Board of Governors. “It has been an exceptionally strong year for economic growth in Lake County and the broader Chicagoland region. The Big Event provides a unique occasion to gather together with our partners, celebrate our wins, and set the stage for future success.”

Big Event attendees will also receive special insights from Lake County Board Chair Sandy Hart. “Lake County’s high quality of life is the result of strategic community investments, skilled talent, a supportive business environment, and collaborative partnerships,” observed Hart. “Our abundant resources have fueled regional prosperity and reinforced Lake County’s standing as a national hub for innovation and opportunity.”

One company that has leveraged its Lake County location to expand is Fischer Paper Products. At the Big Event, the company will be honored with the 2024 Community Investment Award for its commitment to Lake County and investment in workforce partnerships and the talent pipeline.

“Fischer Paper Products has had a presence in Chicagoland for over 52 years, and our long history is the direct reflection of support we’ve received from the community,” noted President and Owner Josh Fischer. “When we weighed options for the company’s long-term growth, Lake County was a natural choice. In working with local officials, the Village of Antioch, Lake County Workforce Development, the College of Lake County and Lake County Partners, we’ve been able to tap into the workforce that we need to drive momentum for future generations.”

Lake County workforce development powerhouses like Gina Schuyler, the CTE Department Chair for Careers and Community Partnerships at Grayslake Community High School District 127, are behind the success of businesses across the county. Schuyler will be honored at the Big Event with Lake County Partners’ inaugural Talent Advancement Award for her noteworthy efforts to forge bold new career pathways and mentorship programs.

“Gina thinks outside of the box, and her visionary approach has had a profound effect on students,” noted Mikkel Storaasli, Ed.D., Superintendent at Grayslake Community High School District 127. “Her work ethic has quite literally shaped the future of education across the state of Illinois, and her dedication will have a lasting impact on students’ lives and the trajectory of business.”

The anticipated success of the Big Event underscores Lake County Partners’ commitment to fostering growth, creating new jobs, driving innovation, and enhancing Lake County’s competitiveness. By bringing together diverse stakeholders and thought leaders, Lake County Partners continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the region, helping businesses actualize their full potential, and advancing the community’s economic development goals.

The Big Event is made possible with generous support from the Lake County business community including Lake County, the College of Lake County, Old National Bank, the Hunter Family Foundation, Schreiber Philanthropy, Abbott, Comcast, the Gorter Family Foundation, Libertyville Bank & Trust Company, N.A., Advocate Condell Medical Center, Aston Carter, BCI Acrylic, CBRE, City of Hope, Great Lakes Credit Union, Illinois Manufacturers’ Association, JP Morgan Chase, Lake County Workforce Development, Pace Suburban Bus, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, Wight & Company, UCC Environmental, The Upper Illinois River Valley Development Authority, Van Vlissingen and Co., Five Grain Events and World Business Chicago.

A very limited number of tickets remain. Click here to get yours while they’re still available.