8 Sustainability Incentives for Businesses in DuPage County

sustainability in dupage county

Setting sustainability goals is one thing; finding a path toward accomplishing them is another. Whether it’s purchasing new energy-efficient industrial properties while moving your business, retrofitting your current office space to help lower your utility bills, or anything else of the sort—there are a multitude of factors for you to consider.

Finding the right guidance and resources makes the process a lot simpler.

A regional leader in promoting sustainable business, DuPage County offers a wealth of opportunities for companies of all sizes and industries looking to grow their operations while shrinking their carbon footprint. From federal tax benefits and state sustainability certifications to private-sector commercial energy incentives and more, going green has never been easier—or more rewarding.

Sustainable DuPage, a partnership between Choose DuPage and the DuPage County Environmental Division, helps business leaders navigate this ever-evolving landscape.

By connecting them with resources, financial incentives and education that promote sustainable practices, we’re empowering them to help their communities become cleaner, safer and more prosperous. Keep reading to discover some of these featured programs and the business opportunities they can unlock.

1. DSIRE DATABASE

DuPage County businesses looking to bolster their sustainability efforts should start by exploring the DSIRE (Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency) database. On their website, you’ll find a free state-by-state master list of energy-related incentives and resources tailored to utility-scale, commercial and residential customers. Click here to view programs available in Illinois.

2. COMED ENERGY INCENTIVES & REBATES

Supplying energy to more than 4 million customers in Northern Illinois, Commonwealth Edison Company (ComEd) plays a key role in promoting energy efficiency in DuPage County and beyond.

Taking advantage of their commercial incentives can lead to significant sustainability savings for your business via immediate equipment discounts (lighting and HVAC, refrigeration, lab equipment, variable speed drives, etc.) and subsequently, reduced energy consumption.

Additionally, ComEd provides valuable rebates for businesses and households generating solar energy in DuPage County. Helping offset the out-of-pocket costs of installing a qualified renewable energy generating system, their Distributed Generation (DG) Rebate program offers rates of $250 to $300/kW for customers who connected after August 11, 2022.

3. SECTION 179D COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS ENERGY TAX DEDUCTION

Rewarding commercial building owners who install energy-saving HVAC, lighting, building envelopes and other qualifying systems—the Section 179D commercial building energy efficiency tax deduction is an excellent choice for businesses looking to update their facilities and bring down their utility costs. Click here to learn more about the program and how it might benefit your company.

4. NICOR GAS SUSTAINABILITY SAVINGS

Nicor Gas provides numerous financial advantages for commercial customers across a wide range of industries. From assessments and free products to updated equipment rebates, custom business incentives and more—their programs give your organization the insights and tools to boost the efficiency and affordability of your energy use.

5. PACE – PROPERTY ASSESSED CLEAN ENERGY FINANCING

Offering low-cost, long-term financing options for energy efficiency, renewable energy and water conservation projects on business sites, DuPage County’s Property Assessed Clean Energy financing program is a true game-changer. It’s a must-have for commercial property owners looking to make improvements to their facilities without making a large dent in their budgets—offering 100% upfront financing from private capital providers for up to 30 years. Visit DuPage County’s website to learn more.

6. DUPAGE COUNTY GREEN BUILDING INCENTIVE PROGRAM

The DuPage County Green Building Incentive Program provides assistance to local businesses making USGBC-approved changes to their facilities. Benefits include expedited permit reviews, an expedited zoning and plat process and up to 10% reduction in certain fees for qualifying projects. Click here for more information.

7. THE ILLINOIS SUSTAINABLE TECHNOLOGY CENTER’S TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (TAP)

The Illinois Sustainable Technology Center’s Technical Assistance Program (TAP) offers federal grant-funded assessments to businesses in aerospace, automotive, chemical, food & beverage and metal manufacturing/fabrication sectors. The results of these assessments are remarkably beneficial in helping facilities reduce their costs, energy and water consumption, wastewater generation, emissions and hazardous material usage—crucial to increasing profitability and productivity.

View this blog post from ISTC to learn more about the program and how it works.

8. CHOOSE DUPAGE & SEDAC GREEN BUSINESS ASSESSMENT

A joint initiative put forth by Choose DuPage and the Smart Energy Design Assistance Center (SEDAC), the Green Business Assessment provides your company with an in-depth, no-cost evaluation of your sustainability practices. Upon completion of this initial assessment, our teams then build a green action plan to help your business cut costs, boost efficiency and, if applicable, become a producer of clean energy in DuPage County.

By following your green action plan, doing things like using solar power and making energy-saving updates to your facility, you can even qualify for additional financial incentives and sustainability certifications.

LEARN MORE ABOUT GOING GREEN IN DUPAGE COUNTY

If you’re considering a business relocation to the Chicago area, start your search in DuPage County, Illinois. With abundant commercial real estate options and a thriving local economy— plus innovative public- and private-sector incentives promoting sustainability and green energy in Chicago and beyond—DuPage County is built for eco-friendly business.

Whether you represent an established company seeking expansion or a budding startup eager to explore new horizons, now is the time to join our dynamic, forward-thinking business community.

Reach out to us at info@ChooseDuPage.com to learn more.

Customers Save More than $8 Billion on Energy Bills Through Award-Winning ComEd Energy Efficiency Program

ComEd

ComEd offerings ranked first in Midwest by national energy-efficiency research organization

CHICAGO (Aug. 30, 2023) – Since 2008, hundreds of thousands of families and businesses across northern Illinois have saved a total of more than $8 billion on their energy bills by participating in the ComEd Energy Efficiency Program.

The award-winning program, which is funded in compliance with state law, is one of the largest in the nation offering residents, businesses and the public sector a variety of options that help them cut back on their energy use, which reduces energy bills and helps the environment.

In addition to saving customers more than $8 billion on their energy bills, the program also helped customers save approximately 76 million megawatt-hours of electricity, which is enough energy to power more than 8.6 million ComEd customers’ homes for one year. The program has also helped reduce from the air nearly 65 billion pounds of carbon emissions that contribute to climate change, which is the equivalent of removing more than 6.3 million cars off the road for one year or planting nearly 35 million acres of trees.

“As ComEd works to provide customers with clean, reliable energy, we’ve also worked over the last decade to control costs and keep rates competitive,” said Erica Borggren, vice president of customer solutions at ComEd. “Part of that effort is through the ComEd Energy Efficiency Program, which enables customers to take control of when and how they use electricity to help them manage costs and lower their electric bills.”

In January, the Midwest Energy Efficiency Alliance (MEEA) recognized ComEd’s Multi-Family Energy Savings offering with an Inspiring Efficiency Award. The offering, one of many available through ComEd’s energy-efficiency program, features assessments and free or discounted energy-saving products to help residents and owners of multi-unit dwellings lower their energy use and electric bills. In May, the program also received the highest level of recognition from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) with an ENERGY STAR® Partner of the Year—Sustained Excellence Award.

“Energy efficiency plays a crucial role in meeting our nation’s energy needs,” said Mike Specian, utilities manager at the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) and lead author of the recently released Utility Energy Efficiency Scorecard, which ranked the ComEd Energy Efficiency Program first among Midwest utility programs and fourth nationally. “It lowers customer energy bills, reduces energy burden, improves in-home comfort, enhances resilience, and improves indoor air quality.”

The scorecard evaluated 53 of the largest U.S. electric utilities on their policy and program efforts related to energy efficiency during 2021. The scorecard also looked at how utilities managed customers at risk of having their electric service disconnected, which can severely damage people’s health and well-being by depriving them of safe living temperatures, refrigeration, and the use of medical equipment, as well as evaluated utilities on how they ensure diverse workforces for their efficiency programs.

How customers can benefit from energy-saving programs

ComEd residential customers interested in taking advantage of any of the ComEd Energy Efficiency Program offerings can view a full list of services, incentives and rebates at ComEd.com/HomeSavings. Offerings for business customers are available at ComEd.com/BizSavings.

For customers who want help getting started, ComEd recommends establishing a free, online account at ComEd.com/MyAccount. Once logged in, customers can compare their current bill with last month’s bill and last year’s bill to learn more about their energy use. They can even view their bill forecast to see an estimate of their upcoming bill, so customers can make changes in energy use to manage costs before their next bill. With an online account, customers can also:

  • Click on My Usage and then Tips to find personalized, energy-saving suggestions based on the information provided in their home profile. These tips can help customers find ways to save money and energy, by cost, season, and more.
  • Sign up for free bill notifications, such as High-Usage Alerts that send notifications when energy use is trending higher than usual, and Weekly Usage Reports that summarize your daily use so you can spot trends and adjust usage before your next bill arrives.
  • Access View My Usage to obtain graphs of existing costs and energy-use patterns. In the Neighbors tab, customers get a relative comparison of energy use from about 100 comparable homes within a certain radius. To increase the accuracy of the comparison, customers can go to My Home Profile to add or change details about your home.

Illinois & Chicagoland Are Leading Innovation in Quantum

Quantum technology

The Chicagoland region stands on the precipice of becoming a global center for quantum technologies, suggests a report released today by World Business Chicago. The transformative impact of quantum technology is expected to outpace current computational capabilities and revolutionize sectors like automotive, finance, life sciences, and beyond.

Read more in World Business Chicago’s Chicago Business Bulletin, “Chicagoland’s Quantum Ecosystem” published in partnership with the Chicago Quantum Exchange and P33 Chicago.

“The motivation behind this report was understanding that quantum, often likened to science fiction, is very real,” expressed Robin Ficke, SVP, Research, World Business Chicago. ” Though quantum applications are still nascent, the strides made by local scientists and innovators are turning heads in the investment and corporate sectors. This report illuminates the region’s opportunity to lead quantum technology’s future.

The Research Center at World Business Chicago delves deeply into the strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities of both established and emergent industries. Today’s quantum ecosystem report provides an unbiased glimpse into the region’s quantum tech landscape and its broader implications in the U.S. and world.

“We join Governor Pritzker and other key stakeholders, in a commitment to see Illinois and the Chicagoland region become a global quantum hub,” said Michael Fassnacht, President & CEO, World Business Chicago. “Given our diversified economy, industrial stronghold, top-tier education system, vibrant startup culture, and strong pipeline of leading researchers, scientists and engineers, we’re not just embracing the quantum shift—we are leading it.”

“Quantum technologies have the potential to transform everyday life across multiple sectors, and the Midwest region is poised to become the heart of the nation’s quantum economy, thanks in large part to the deep cross-sector partnerships we have cultivated here,” said David Awschalom, Liew Family Professor of Molecular Engineering at the University of Chicago and Director of the Chicago Quantum Exchange. “Collaboration among academia, industry, and government labs have attracted substantial investment to the region and contribute to the strong quantum ecosystem reflected in this report.”

World Business Chicago’s Quantum Ecosystem report highlights increasing investments in the region’s quantum ecosystem, why the Chicagoland region is one of the top three best-positioned in the U.S. for supplying the quantum workforce of the future, details of Illinois’ status as a frontrunner in active quantum patents, leading all Midwestern states; and other reasons why the region is a magnet for quantum startups, companies, and leaders of industry. Other findings include:

  • Billions in Quantum’s Wake – Quantum startups globally have attracted an impressive $9.8 billion since 2020, a leap from the prior $1.4 billion over 2014-2019. Illinois has captured $33.2 million since 2017, solidifying its lead for quantum ventures, particularly those focused on software. This can be seen not only in the data but in the personal stories of researchers, startup founders and students who have come to the region for the richness of the quantum ecosystem. Six of those stories are detailed today in a report out by the Chicago Quantum Exchange, including those of three startups that have attracted millions of dollars in public and private investment: EeroQ, which moved its headquarters to Chicago in 2022; Super.tech, a University of Chicago spin-out was acquired in 2022 by Infleqtion (formerly ColdQuanta); and Quantopticon, which is in the process of moving its headquarters to Chicago.
  • Chicagoland: A Quantum Magnet – The region’s quantum ecosystem is more than its startups. Over 40 Fortune 500 companies, leading universities, research labs, and incubators also populate the region. This synergy of tech behemoths, academia, research, and innovative startups positions Chicagoland as a dominant quantum hub.
  • Educational Epicenter – Including nearby quantum centers in UrbanaChampaign and Madison, Wisconsin, the Midwest region is the nation’s third-largest quantum education hub. The Chicagoland region is second in spinning out the most quantum-focused doctoral graduates.

Looking Ahead

Illinois, and the Chicagoland region, is on the precipice of becoming a global hub for quantum development. Today scientists are actively experimenting on ways to increase computer speed, improve cryptography, curate new ways to detect diseases, and more.

“Quantum is ours to win. Every dollar invested, every research paper published, and every startup incubated brings us closer to seeing Illinois and the Chicagoland region a global epicenter of quantum technology,” said Brad Henderson, CEO, P33 Chicago.

SOURCE: World Business Chicago


Chicagoland’s Quantum Ecosystem, Executive Summary 

DOWNLOAD THE FULL REPORT

Chicago is not Silicon Valley: our uniqueness lies in fostering a distinct and diverse technological ecosystem, where the collective business community carves out its own path to innovation. Chicago’s advantage lies in its diverse range of industries, which span finance, healthcare, manufacturing, and more. This diversity allows for cross-pollination of ideas, especially as quantum companies collaborate with various industry sectors, leading to innovative solutions that cater to specific, real-world challenges. Chicago’s rare environment enables rapid commercialization and practical application of quantum technologies.

In this issue of the Chicago Business Bulletin, the World Business Chicago Research Center will illustrate Chicagoland’s advantages in the quantum industry across a number of metrics, including its diverse industrial base, but also academic and research institutions, private and public investments, and intellectual property production.

Key Findings:

  • Chicago’s diverse industry base creates a wealth of real-world challenges and applications for quantum companies to address. Chicago is one of the top metro areas in the US for industries — like high tech, IT-producing, and IT-using industries — that most often acquire new technology as part of their innovation strategies.
  • Within the US, the broader Chicago region (including the Chicago, Urbana-Champaign, and Madison, Wisconsin metro areas) has the third highest number of universities engaged in quantum research activities. With respect to actual academic programs, this region has the third most universities with quantum-related academic program completions.
  • Global investment in quantum startups has increased dramatically since 2020; Illinois is a leader in US-based investments. Illinois has the second most deals made by quantum startups after California. Investment in Illinois and Midwestern quantum startups is more likely to be captured by software-focused firms, compared to hardware-focused firms.
  • Illinois has a diverse, well-balanced distribution of quantum patents across sub-niches, especially compared to other high-performing states with significant quantum presences. Notably, 47.8% of Illinois’ quantum patents fall under quantum devices, while 14.5% are in quantum optics and quantum information processing. In contrast, California — the largest quantum patent producer — has over 70% of its patents in quantum devices and only 5% in quantum optics and quantum information processing.

Fact Sheet

  • Chicagoland offers more than 40 quantum-related corporate, government, academic, and non-profit partners.
  • The Chicago metro area’s high tech industry is poised to grow by 15% between 2022 and 2026.
  • Chicago Quantum Exchange partner universities rank second in the nation for number of quantum related Ph.D. graduates.
  • Illinois quantum startups have raised $33.2 million through 27 deals.
  • With 1,273 active quantum patents, Illinois ranks fifth in the nation.

DOWNLOAD THE FULL REPORT

Green Business Assessment: Choosing Sustainability in DuPage

sustainability initiatives in dupage county
“Sustainability” is more than just a buzzword. It’s an intentional act, a strategic choice made by business owners to consider how their operations affect not only their bottom line, but their surrounding communities and our environment. 
 
Though the payoff is massively rewarding, adopting and promoting sustainability is no small task. Amid the day-to-day responsibilities of running a successful company, business owners face a lot of important and complex decisions. From figuring out ways to reduce energy consumption to implementing eco-friendly waste management tactics and beyond, the journey toward greener business practices can feel overwhelming. 
 
But what if business owners didn’t have to navigate this process on their own?
 
Enter Choose DuPage’s Green Business Assessment. Created in partnership with the Smart Energy Design Assistance Center (SEDAC), this initiative provides no-cost sustainability assessments for businesses across DuPage County, giving them the insights and guidance to make a lasting difference.   
 
Keep reading to learn the critical role of this program, its impact on environmental responsibility and the value it offers businesses.

WHAT A GREEN BUSINESS IS & THE BENEFITS OF BECOMING ONE

Before we elaborate on the details of our Green Business Assessment, it’s important that we get on the same page about what it means to be a “green business” in the first place.
 
SEDAC identifies green businesses as companies that operate across six key areas of sustainability which minimize their environmental impact and maximize their growth potential. 
 
  • Waste Reduction: Minimizing waste isn’t just ecologically beneficial; it helps create tangible cost savings both now and in the future.
  • Pollution Prevention: A steadfast commitment to pollution prevention directly contributes to a healthier environment and safer communities.
  • Trimming Utility Usage and Costs: Smart energy practices directly translate into reduced utility bills, while also supporting broader energy conservation efforts.
  • Engaging Employees in Sustainability Efforts: Involving staff in sustainability initiatives nurtures teamwork, camaraderie and shared responsibility.
  • Promoting Healthy Workplaces: Sustainability practices extend to fostering healthier indoor environments, which, in turn, boost employee productivity and satisfaction.
  • A Journey of Continuous Improvement: Green businesses are inherently committed to an ongoing journey of innovation and enhancement of their sustainable practices.
Let’s dive into the ins and outs of the Green Business Assessment and get a closer look at how it all works.  

HOW THE PROCESS WORKS

The Green Business Assessment, a partnership between Choose DuPage and SEDAC, is your roadmap to align with green energy and enhance energy efficiency in DuPage County. Follow it to leverage green building incentives and create real change. 
 
Here’s how it works.   
 

1. GET ASSESSED: 

We conduct a free sustainability assessment, delving into your operations and identifying opportunities for sustainability improvements. 
 
This information-gathering phase is crucial. From the amount of greenhouse gases emitted by the businesses in your supply chain, to how long and how many lights you keep on throughout the workday, each data point helps us understand the bigger picture. 
 

2. RECEIVE YOUR PLAN: 

Next, we’ll create a unique green action plan that outlines your path to reducing costs, boosting operational efficiency and switching to renewable energy sources, if possible. 
 
You’ll be able to connect with sustainability initiatives in DuPage County, such as the ComEd Distributed Generation (DG) Rebate. This program helps offset the out-of-pocket costs of solar panel installation, offering rebates of up to $300/kW. (For more information, please visit ComEd’s website.)
 

3. TAKE ACTION: 

Whether it’s optimizing your industrial properties’ energy consumption or finding office space outfitted with the latest energy-efficient technology, we assist you in making sustainable, value-driven choices. 
 
These decisions can help unlock exciting business opportunities and may even make the business relocation process easier. 
 

4. RECEIVE INCENTIVES AND CERTIFICATION: 

As you continue to complete the practices outlined in your plan—whether it’s playing an active role in integrating solar energy in DuPage County, lowering your Scope 3 emissions by localizing your supply chain, etc.—you’ll become eligible to receive financial incentives and sustainability certifications. 
 
You can even become an official SEDAC/Illinois Green Business Association (IGBA) Green-Certified Business, showing your customers and the greater DuPage business community that your organization leads by example. You’ll also receive valuable exposure via a press release, social media coverage, a public map listing, county-wide Choose DuPage promotion, and state-wide recognition.

GET STARTED

Interested in participating in our Green Business Assessment? We’re welcoming businesses of all sizes and types—from startups to established enterprises, nonprofits to public-sector organizations.  
 
By embracing sustainability and taking advantage of our Green Business Assessment, you’re not only benefiting your company—you’re contributing to a greener future for DuPage County and beyond. Together, we can establish a thriving business ecosystem that embodies the DuPage Difference and sets an influential example of global environmental stewardship.
 
To participate or gather more information, please reach out to us at info@ChooseDuPage.com.

CoStar’s Quarterly List of Market-Leading Deals Include Two DuPage County Office Leases

DuPage office leases

Top Office Leases Recognized for Chicago

Published by: CoStar Research | August 2, 2023 

Prominent office leases signed by Molson Coors, Antares Capital and Raymond James negotiated by top dealmakers from Riverside Investment & Development and Cushman & Wakefield are among the second-quarter office leases recognized by CoStar.

As big-ticket items involving sizable investments, commercial property transactions often have a wider impact within the community. CoStar will recognize the largest leases completed each quarter and the dealmakers who made them happen in their respective markets.

Here are the Chicago office leases selected as the second-quarter 2023 winners of the CoStar Power Broker Quarterly Deal Awards:


Molson Coors
320 S. Canal St., Chicago, IL
Space Leased: 83,848 SF
Deal Type: New Lease
Size: 1,497,211 SF

Molson Coors, the wholesaler of popular beverages including Blue Moon, Coors, Miller and Topo Chico, finalized a lease in the second quarter to move its headquarters across the Chicago River to the BMO Tower in 2024. The beer giant is slated to occupy the 34th through 36th floors of the tower developed and owned by Riverside Investment & Development. The deal is the latest example of the so-called flight to quality across the country, with tenants moving into newer, higher-end spaces. For Molson Coors, the never-used space at BMO Tower is less than half the roughly 167,000 square feet it now leases just across the river about a block east at 250 S. Wacker Drive.


Antares Capital
320 S. Canal St., Chicago, IL
Space Leased: 79,657 SF
Deal Type: New Lease

Set to join Molson Coors is Antares Capital, a financial services firm that signed a rare relocation and expansion at BMO Tower. The company currently occupies 69,646 square feet at 500 W. Monroe St., though it will occupy nearly 80,000 square feet when it moves to BMO Tower. The skyscraper opened last year along Union Station and includes a 1.5-acre, privately owned park along the west side of the building. It is now more than 70% leased.


Raymond James
120 S. Riverside Plaza, Chicago, IL 
Space Leased: 58,196 SF
Deal Type: New Lease

Investment banking giant Raymond James is opening a new Chicago office after signing a lease at 120 S. Riverside Plaza. Owned by Ivanhoe Cambridge for a decade, the 22-story tower includes a recently renovated lobby, two redeveloped plazas, a fitness center, tenant lounges and on-site restaurants. Other tenants in the building include Husch Blackwell, Home Partners of America and Levenfeld Pearlstein.


Sikich
1415 W. Diehl Road, Naperville, IL
Space Leased: 42,895 SF
Deal Type: Renewal

National information technology management firm Sikich signed a lease for a new office at Hub 1415. The Naperville office is the company’s headquarters and houses its specialized training and development program for employees, dubbed Sikich University. Hub 1415 is a Class-A office building consisting of two properties connected by a skyway. The building also offers a full-service cafeteria, on-site parking, multiple tenant lounges and outdoor areas.


Barstool Sports
400 N. Noble St., Chicago, IL 
Space Leased: 39,251 SF
Deal Type: New Lease
Size: 58,765 SF

Sports and pop culture media company Barstool Sports signed a deal to occupy 39,251 square feet at The Bishop building in Chicago. Given Barstool Sports’ youthful brand image, the company requires an office environment that fosters creativity, collaboration and innovation. The new location will include a full-size basketball court, a golf simulator, music studios and other space for media content creation. NanoGraf leasing the remainder of the building for its new corporate headquarters.


HNTB
1 S. Wacker Drive, Chicago, IL 
Space Leased: 32,176 SF
Deal Type: New Lease

HNTB signed a lease in One South Wacker where the engineering firm will open its first office in Illinois. HNTB operates in 34 states and primarily focuses on infrastructure needs. One South Wacker, also known as OSW, opened in 1982 and is home to such tenants as Invenergy, Rise Interactive, Charles River Associates and Avison Young. The 601W Cos. owns the Helmut Jahn-designed building.


Insight Global
353 N. Clark St., Chicago, IL 
Space Leased: 27,043 SF
Deal Type: Renewal

Insight Global renewed its offices in Mesirow’s headquarters building at 353 N. Clark St. in River North. The staffing agency has leased space in the building since 2014, the same year building owner Heitman acquired the property for $715 million.


Helix Logistics
227 W. Monroe St., Chicago, IL 
Space Leased: 25,632 SF
Deal Type: New Lease

Helix Logistics provides logistics and transportation services to clients. The company will open a new office at The Franklin after reaching a deal with building owner Tishman Speyer for the 42nd floor of the 60-story tower. The high-rise was built in 1989 in the city’s Loop business district and is also home to Eversheds Sutherland, AllianceBernstein, Madison Capital Funding and Steptoe.


Roetzel & Andress
70 W. Madison St., Chicago, IL 
Space Leased: 23,909 SF
Deal Type: Sublease

National law firm Roetzel & Andress has elected to move to a larger office at 70 W. Madison St. in downtown Chicago. The firm leased 23,909 square feet on the 30th floor for five years. Moving to a larger office indicates the firm’s intention to expand its presence in downtown Chicago and grow in key practice areas, including its recently added cybersecurity practice. The firm’s previous Chicago office was at 30 N. LaSalle St.


Kone
3333 Warrenville Road, Lisle, IL 
Space Leased: 22,238 SF
Deal Type: New Lease

Kone signed a lease in Central Park of Lisle where the Finnish elevator company will establish its U.S. headquarters. GFH Financial Group, an Islamic investment bank previously known as Gulf Finance House, owns the Broadcom-anchored building.


For more information about available office space in DuPage County, IL please contact Choose DuPage.

Innovation in Manufacturing & Chicagoland’s Advantages

Advanced manufacturing dupage

World Business Chicago recently published a new research report, Innovation in Manufacturing & Chicagoland’s Advantages. This comprehensive report delves into the transformative impact of innovation on the Chicago region’s thriving $99 billion manufacturing industry, which as of 2022, stands as the nation’s second largest.

As the manufacturing sector faces growing competition in an increasingly globalized economy, the industry has embraced innovative technologies and processes to maintain its leadership position. With over 410,000 employees working in the Chicago region’s manufacturing sector, the adoption of tools such as automation, artificial intelligence, and the Internet of Things (IoT) has revolutionized operational efficiency and productivity across the 12,000+ manufacturing firms in the area.

One key highlight of the report is the collaboration between manufacturers, suppliers, and academic institutions to foster innovation within the sector. This cooperative approach has led to the formation of robust innovation ecosystems that empower the industry with a distinct competitive advantage.

Key Findings from the Report include:

  • Diverse Innovators: The report reveals that for every high-tech manufacturer engaged in innovation, there are three fabricated metal manufacturers actively innovating. This indicates a widespread commitment to advancing manufacturing processes and technologies across the sector.
  • Knowledge Exchange: Most manufacturers in the Chicagoland region rely on their customers or suppliers to provide specialized knowledge that cannot be acquired or developed in-house. This collaborative approach encourages knowledge sharing and promotes open innovation initiatives.
  • Regional Advantage: Chicagoland offers manufacturers a unique edge, as they can access a robust ecosystem of suppliers and customers within the region. Astonishingly, manufacturers in Chicago source nearly 50% of their inputs in-region, further solidifying the area’s status as a manufacturing hub.
  • Diverse Government Support: Nearly half of the manufacturers using government support for innovation reported using programs other than tax incentives or credits. This highlights the diversity of initiative available to foster innovation in the region.
  • Illinois as an Innovation Hub: The report underscores Illinois’ prominence as a hub for innovation, ranking #5 in the U.S. for its contributions to the advancement of technology and manufacturing.

“The World Business Chicago’s Research Center is excited to present this report that delves into what manufacturers need in order to successfully innovate and the critical role of innovation in driving the success of the manufacturing industry in the Chicagoland region,” said Robin Ficke, SVP, Research, World Business Chicago. “The findings underscore the impact of our dynamic and collaborative manufacturing ecosystem, positioning the region as a key player in shaping the future of the manufacturing landscape.”

The Innovation in Manufacturing & Chicagoland’s Advantages report showcases the regional commitment, by and through the Greater Chicagoland Economic Partnership, to staying at the forefront of technological advancements to drive sustainable growth for the region’s manufacturing industry.

To access the full report and learn more about the innovative strides made by the Chicagoland manufacturing sector, please visit [https://infograph.venngage.com/pl/ifI7Kt8rVAc]

CNBC’s Annual Top States for Business Rankings Show Continued Improvement for Illinois Four Years Running

Naperville Illinois

Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) recently highlighted Illinois’ top rankings in CNBC’s 2023 Top States for Business publication – an annual report that ranks states based on 10 broad categories of competitiveness. This year, Illinois ranked in the top 10 in the nation for four categories of competitiveness, and six categories in the top 20. Illinois is ranked 17th best state for business, rising ahead two spots from the 2022 ranking and up from 30th in the 2019 ranking.

Highlights include:

  • #2 in the nation for infrastructure (up from #3 in ‘22)
  • #2 in the nation for education (up from #6 in ‘22)
  • #6 in the nation for access to capital (up from #8 in ‘22)
  • #9 in the nation for cost of living (up from #20 in ‘22)

“I couldn’t be prouder that we’re outpacing more and more states, and now CNBC has ranked Illinois number two in the nation for both infrastructure and education,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “Over the last four years, our Rebuild Illinois Capital Plan has been modernizing our transportation systems. Our higher education institutions have become more affordable and have risen in college rankings. We’ve invested historic levels of funding into early childhood education and K-12 schools which now rank 6th in the nation by US News and World Report. Illinois is improving our economic prospects by focusing on the long term. Here’s to continued improvement in 2024.”

“Illinois stands out as one of the best states in the nation, and as leaders, we know it is the people who make our state so great,” said Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton. “Since day one, our administration has been committed to the work that ensures Illinoisans can thrive so we can go even further together. By investing in our schools, infrastructure, and businesses, we are championing an Illinois that soars to greater heights.”

Through the landmark $45 billion Rebuild Illinois initiative, Illinois has made unprecedented investments to modernize roads, bridges, airports, and ports – resulting in:

  • The complete renovation of more than 5,300 miles of highway and almost 500 bridges
  • More than 750 accessibility and safety improvements

Illinois has long been known for its superior infrastructure, boasting top freight access, miles of interstate highway, and accessibility to 80 percent of locations in the continental U.S. within four hours through Illinois’ superior airports. Over the next six years, Illinois will invest an additional $13.96 billion to continue its full-scale infrastructure revitalization that will enhance all modes of transportation across the state.

Additionally, the Pritzker Administration has prioritized sustained year over year investments in education from cradle to career. Most recently passing Smart Start Illinois, building upon the state’s strong educational foundation by ensuring students have access to high-quality early education for generations to come. Governor Pritzker’s administration has overseen the largest early childhood investments in state history, totaling in over $1 billion to support early childhood care and education. Smart Start Illinois begins a major push across birth-to-five programs, which includes:

  • Pre-school expansion to eliminate preschool deserts and cover every child
  • Improve early intervention services to allow thousands of children to overcome developmental challenges
  • Enhance Illinois’ nation-leading home visiting program
  • Raises for early childhood workers and providers

Illinois ranks sixth in the nation in K-12 education, with funding being increased this year by an additional $525 million, including $350 million for evidence-based funding and $45 million for the first year of an innovative three-year pilot program to fill teacher vacancies.

Governor Pritzker has also increased MAP Grant and AIM High funding to a record-breaking, all-time high of more than $750 million, making it possible for nearly every eligible student at or below median income to attend community college for free.

“Thanks to Governor Pritzker and the General Assembly, Illinois has stronger business attraction incentives than ever before and the state is building momentum,” said DCEO Director Kristin Richards. “Combined with our world-class infrastructure, superior education system, and a reasonable cost of living, Illinois continues to grow its economy and improve quality of life for Illinoisans.”

In addition to Infrastructure, Education, Access to Capital and Cost of Living, Illinois ranked among the top 20 states for Life, Health, and Inclusion (17th) – which measures quality of life metrics such as health care, worker protection, voting rights and other data points. Illinois also ranked 14th for Technology & Innovation, which looks at the number of patents, research and similar measures.

The positive rankings in key competitive categories come as Illinois is experiencing a record-setting year for economic development, including ranking #2 in the nation for corporate investment and #1 for workforce development in the Midwest by Site Selection Magazine. Illinois also shattered its record for film production spending (nearly $700 million) and reached an all-time high for hotel revenues in FY23.

Additionally, Illinois reached $1 trillion GDP for the first time in 2022 and nearly tripled companies’ capital investments through EDGE agreements from 2019 pre-pandemic levels to $1 billion in 2022.

Over the past several years, Illinois has launched new business attraction incentives while making improvements to its existing suite. Recent programs and improvements to business attraction include:

  • Invest in Illinois Fund: $400 million closing fund provides discretionary grant assistance for large projects with significant job creation and capital investments.
  • Reimagining Energy & Vehicles Illinois (REV Illinois): Up to 100% income tax withholding for new jobs created in the EV/clean energy manufacturing sectors, among other benefits.
  • Economic Development for a Growing Economy (EDGE) Program: With more than $1 billion in investment from companies receiving EDGE credits in 2022, EDGE is Illinois’ premier incentive program. EDGE provides competitive tax incentives to businesses in all industries locating or expanding in Illinois.
  • Data Centers Investment Program: Provides qualifying data center owners and operators with highly competitive exemptions from a variety of state and local taxes.
  • Enterprise Zones (EZ) and High Impact Business (HIB): Enterprise Zones provide various benefits including building material sales tax exemptions, utility tax exemptions (natural gas and electricity), and investment tax credits.
  • Manufacturing Illinois Chips for a Real Opportunity (MICRO): Provides incentives for manufacturers of microchips and semiconductor parts for job creation/retention benefits, training cost benefits, credits for construction jobs, and investment credits.

Originally published by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity.

Connect DuPage: Fostering Diversity and Collaboration

connect dupage

The business world is constantly evolving.

Globalization has made our planet more connected and advanced than ever before. From market conditions and consumer behaviors to supply chain management strategies and beyond—everything is changing quickly. It’s as exciting as it is challenging.

A key part of unlocking success in this dynamic era lies in embracing diversity—a fundamental element that distinguishes today’s adaptable and robust economies from their rigid, siloed predecessors.

Companies of all different sizes, industries and specialties each have something to bring to the table when it comes to building prosperous communities like DuPage County. By continuing to foster a diverse local economy, we’re better preparing ourselves to thrive both now and in the future.

Our new initiative, Connect DuPage, is helping to make this a reality—created with the intent of fostering meaningful collaborations among diverse businesses in DuPage County. Keep reading to learn more about the program and its goals, how it works, and how to get involved.

PROGRAM GOALS

The Connect DuPage initiative revolves around three key objectives:

  1. Promote Commercial Collaboration: We bring together companies of all sizes and industries in our region, providing resources and tools that connect local buyers with local DuPage supply chain businesses.
  2. Address Current Supply Chain Challenges: Through data-driven collaboration and ongoing communication, Connect DuPage helps area businesses speed up their timelines and simply their supply chain operations while boosting our local economy.
  3. Raise Awareness and Opportunity for DuPage County Businesses: A key part of our vision is our commitment to promoting supplier diversity and inclusion in DuPage County—providing equal opportunities to all businesses, including minority-, women-, disabled- and veteran-owned companies.

HOW IT WORKS: CONNECTING YOU TO RESOURCES & OPPORTUNITIES

Taking advantage of Connect DuPage’s comprehensive range of services gives your business access to the insights, resources and opportunities necessary for sustainable, value-driven growth.

CUSTOM INDUSTRY-SECTOR REPORTS

Connect DuPage offers customized reports to help your business gain a deeper understanding of your industry and supply chain. Tailored to your field, these reports give you a detailed look at essential employment and workforce data, providing insights into the wide range of workforce opportunities available within DuPage County.

They also include regional economic forecasts and supply chain mapping, assisting businesses interested in promoting diversity by identifying potential partners and suppliers.

SUPPLIER DIVERSITY PROGRAM & DATABASE

Upon registering as a woman-, minority-, veteran-, or disabled-owned business with Choose DuPage, your company will be added to our diverse supplier database and featured in Connect DuPage’s industry-sector reports—connecting other businesses directly with you.

This increased exposure not only fosters networking but also opens doors to potential clientele, helping your business grow and thrive in a meaningful way.

CERTIFICATION RESOURCES

Connect DuPage strives to support businesses seeking certification as women-, minority-, veteran-, or disabled-owned enterprises. We put together a comprehensive list of resources and certifying agencies to help simplify the process and make registering as a diverse supplier with Choose DuPage as seamless as possible.

NETWORKING & EDUCATIONAL EVENTS

Another way Connect DuPage helps foster a strong and supportive business community is by hosting professional events aimed at fostering collaboration, supporting diverse enterprises, and enlightening business leaders about crucial developments in the supply chain industry.

Some of these programs are designed for the entire DuPage business community, while others focus on working directly with disadvantaged businesses.

LEARN MORE ABOUT CONNECT DUPAGE

For entrepreneurs considering a business relocation to the Chicago area or seeking industrial properties, DuPage County serves as an optimal location—offering a myriad of exciting business opportunities, ample commercial real estate and a high quality of life.

Whether you represent an established company seeking expansion or a budding startup keen on exploring new opportunities, Connect DuPage invites you to join our dynamic, forward-thinking business community.

By embracing diversity and fostering collaboration and networking in DuPage County, together, we can create an environment that’s right for today and ready for tomorrow.

Contact us for more information about Connect DuPage and how to get involved.

12 DuPage Businesses Make Crain’s List of Fastest Growing Companies

business in dupage county

Crain’s Chicago Business recently released their ‘Fast 50’ list of the fifty fastest growing companies for 2023. An impressive 23 companies made the list that were not previously on it a testament to the continued strength of the region’s business community. On the list were 12 DuPage County-based companies. To view the full list and read the article, click here

DuPage County’s Fastest Growing Companies

COMPANY NAME LOCATION
RHM STAFFING SOLUTIONS OAK BROOK
DOUBLE GOOD BURR RIDGE
SNT BIOTECH NAPERVILLE
SIMPLIFY HEALTHCARE AURORA
WAVICLE DATA SOLUTIONS OAK BROOK
DESPIR LOGISTICS LISLE
OSM WORLDWIDE GLENDALE HEIGHTS
AIT WORLDWIDE LOGISTICS ITASCA
NEIGHBORHOOD LOANS DOWNERS GROVE
MILLENIUM TRUST OAK BROOK
PARTS TOWN UNLIMITED ADDISON
DYNAMIC UTILITY SOLUTIONS CAROL STREAM
Source: Crain’s Fast 50  

Learn more about doing business in DuPage County, Illinois

DuPage County #9 on List of America’s 20 Best Counties

Best County

In its new July 2023 issue, Site Selection magazine has published the inaugural edition of “America’s Best Counties,” a new ranking based on Conway Data’s proprietary Conway Projects Database of corporate facility investment data.

On the list of America’s Best Counties by Total Projects, were four Chicagoland Counties, including Cook County, tied for #2 with 231 projects, DuPage County at #9 with 91 projects, Kane County, tied for #14 with 52 projects, and Will County, tied for #16 with 48 projects. 

“These four counties (all GCEP members) are proof that a rising tide floats all boats—a philosophy I’ve always believed in,” said Greg Bedalov, President & CEO of Choose DuPage. “When we create good conditions for businesses across the region, it’s good for everyone at every level. I’m so proud of the work we’ve done and the collaborative environment we’ve built across the region. And we’re just getting started!”

Illinois was the only state with four or more contiguous counties making the list. Earlier this year, Site Selection named the Chicago region the top metro in the U.S. for business growth, a ranking it’s held for the last ten years. 

AMERICA’S BEST COUNTIES BY TOTAL PROJECTS

(JAN. 2022 – MARCH 2023)

RANK

JURISDICTION

NO. OF PROJECTS

1.

Dallas County, Texas

252

T2.

Harris County, Texas

231

T2.

Cook County, Illinois

231

4.

New York County, New York

162

5.

Los Angeles County, California

128

6.

Tarrant County, Texas

109

7.

Travis County, Texas

103

8.

Maricopa County, Arizona

102

9.

DuPage County, Illinois

91

10.

Middlesex County, Massachusetts

80

T11.

Fulton County, Georgia

71

T11.

Franklin County, Ohio

71

13.

Collin County, Texas

55

T14.

Kane County, Illinois

52

T14.

Cuyahoga County, Ohio

52

T16.

Will County, Illinois

48

T16.

Hamilton County, Ohio

48

T18.

Marion County, Indiana

47

T18.

Miami-Dade County, Florida

47

T20.

Johnson County, Kansas

46

T20.

Bexar County, Texas

46

Source: Conway Projects Database, Conway Data Inc./Site Selection