Lake County has achieved the strongest year in its history for job growth and direct capital investment, capping off a five-year run that stands as the most successful in several decades – over 4,000 new jobs and $1.83 billion in capital investment. Fueled by a highly skilled workforce, unmatched global connectivity, and competitive state business incentives, Lake County continues to solidify its position as a premier destination for business growth in the Midwest and nationally.
“Lake County has the assets to compete with anyone,” said Kevin Considine, president & CEO of Lake County Partners. “Our workforce, strategic location in the heart of Chicagoland, and adjacency to O’Hare International Airport — the most connected airport in the world — give companies a global platform for success. But we could not have achieved this record-breaking performance without the job growth incentives from the State of Illinois.”
Just a few years ago, Illinois was often absent from shortlists for major corporate expansions and relocations because of uncompetitive incentive programs. That changed with reforms and modernization efforts that positioned Illinois to go toe-to-toe with other states. Programs such as the Economic Development for a Growing Economy (EDGE) Tax Credit and the new Reimagining Energy and Vehicles (REV) Illinois program have become essential, table-stakes tools that ensure Illinois competes effectively for high-impact projects.
With state incentives now on par with national competitors, Lake County’s inherent strengths are winning deals.
Over the past two years alone, major employers including Fortune Brands Innovations, AbbVie, Vantive, and Sysmex announced significant expansions in Lake County, bringing substantial new jobs and capital investment. At the same time, growing companies such as Plano Pharmaceuticals, Henry Broch Foods, and Ymer Technologies have chosen to invest and expand locally — reinforcing that Lake County’s growth spans companies of all sizes and industries.
To sustain this momentum, continued investment in development-ready sites is critical. Infrastructure — including power, water, sewer, and proper zoning — is expensive but essential. Speed matters in today’s competitive site selection environment. Counties and municipalities cannot shoulder these costs alone. Strategic investment in shovel-ready sites will ensure Lake County can maintain its winning streak nationally and globally.
Innovation remains central to Chicagoland’s identity. Lake County is home to the largest life sciences cluster in the Midwest and ranks among the top hubs in the nation.
However, leaders across the life sciences sector have emphasized the need to modernize Illinois’ Research and Development Tax Credit program. Aligning the state credit more closely with federal programs — including a discussion of transferability — would strengthen early-stage companies and help prevent promising startups from relocating to coastal markets to access capital.
“Chicagoland has the workforce, the logistics platform, the innovation infrastructure, and the quality of life that companies seek,” Considine added. “With smart, modern incentive programs and strategic infrastructure investment, we are exceptionally well positioned to keep winning.”
IT DOESN’T GET BETTER THAN LAKE COUNTY, ILLINOIS
Economic momentum doesn’t happen overnight. It takes vision, partnership, and a relentless focus on delivering results. In Lake County, Illinois, that formula has translated into THE most successful economic development runs in county history—and there’s no sign of slowing down. Whether you’re leading a growing company and looking to expand, or you’re on a personal search for your next home, Lake County is a community in which you’re guaranteed to thrive. Connect with us here so we can put you in touch with the resources that you need to make 2026 your best year yet.