Resource Category: Government

It’s been a busy—and exciting—month for Lake County’s economy. Our latest Lake County Partners newsletter highlights several major developments that continue to build momentum across the region. Leading the headlines: AbbVie’s $380 million investment in North Chicago, which will bring 300+ new jobs and expand cutting-edge pharmaceutical manufacturing right here in Lake County. It’s the kind of announcement that reflects what we’re seeing across the county: strong business confidence, continued investment from global industry leaders, and growing opportunities in sectors like life sciences and advanced manufacturing. From new capital investment to job creation and regional collaboration, the pace of activity this month is a great reminder of why Lake County continues to stand out as one of the Midwest’s most dynamic business locations.

2025 has been Lake County’s best year on record – marked by major investments, new and retained jobs, collaboration and ambition. We’re recapping a few recent events to showcase the major themes of recent developments, and set the stage for a very busy 2026.

2025 has been Lake County’s best year on record – marked by major investments, new and retained jobs, collaboration and ambition. We’re recapping a few recent events to showcase the major themes of recent developments, and set the stage for a very busy 2026.

$1.7 BILLION in new investment & companies hiring 2 years ahead of schedule? When we say we’ve never been busier, we mean it! Our latest newsletter gives just a few recent examples of why economic growth in Lake County is on a massive upswing: Fortune Brands Innovations is crushing goals, hiring 400+ people two years ahead of schedule at their new HQ in the Village of Deerfield, Illinois, Belle Aire Creations is fueling manufacturing growth with a major expansion – the company’s third in Lake County in recent years, counting investments in the Village of Libertyville and Round Lake Beach, Artslink North – spearheaded by Visit Lake County – is recognizing the value of culture as an economic asset, and making it easier for people to enjoy arts in the community, and LCP’s new Director of Strategic Initiatives, Steve DeBretto, is leveraging his experience and close connections with partners to close the housing gap for local workers, strengthen the talent pipeline between schools and businesses, and improve transportation options in the region.

Lots of groundbreakings in North Chicago! AbbVie gathered to celebrate its $195 million investment to expand a manufacturing facility and create new jobs. Officials also gathered to mark the start of the Sheridan Crossing revitalization project, which will transform 40-acres into a vibrant mixed use development. Also, go behind the scenes of Lake County’s economic development winning streak to see how top tier talent, education, infrastructure, global connectivity and strategy are fueling major growth in the community. We also check in with CLC to get the latest on Manufacturing Month, and pop over to Visit Lake County for a Q&A with president Maureen Riedy. She shares her perspective on the evolution of tourism initiatives in Lake County.

AbbVie has announced a major expansion in North Chicago, where the company intends to invest $195 million to expand its manufacturing facility. Lake County’s status as a top 10 county in the country for economic development has caught the attention of The Chicago Tribune. After an extensive site selection process across Illinois, Farm Foundation chose Lake County for its new Innovation and Education Campus. Learn about opportunities to connect with nonprofits, tap into manufacturing career pathway programs, and meet Jim Connell, the Executive Director of Community Programs at the College of Lake County who is overseeing the Manufacturing Alliance.

Lake County and Illinois continue to top the charts – coming in as one of the top counties and states to do business within the entire United States. Also, do a deep dive in to the biggest wins of 2024 with our new Annual Report. See how local public sector leaders are leveraging our quarterly workshop series to drive economic growth, and hear from new board member Lisa Dziekan as she opines on the latest regional development trends.