Celebrate Economic Development Week in McHenry County | | |
Save the Date: Economic Development Week | May 4–8
Stay tuned as MCEDC highlights and celebrates the partnerships, projects, and progress driving economic growth across McHenry County, recognizing the people and initiatives that make our region a great place to live, work, and do business.
| | | Strengthening Business Continuity in McHenry County | | Planning Your Exit or Your Next Acquisition? Start Here. | | Whether you’re planning to sell or looking to buy, Strong Transitions delivers expert advising, access to resources, and the connections needed to navigate every step of the business transition and acquisition process. | |
Transition Advising
Considering retirement or selling your business? Gain confidential guidance tailored to your goals and prepare for a successful exit strategy at no cost. 

Connect with our Transition Advising team to get started today.
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Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition
You’ve got the hustle. We’ve got the framework.
The ETA program empowers early-stage and growth-minded entrepreneurs like you with the tools, resources, and guidance to turn your passion into real-life business ownership.
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Upcoming Sessions
Cohort 6 - August 5th - September 23rd
Cohort 7 - September 30th - November 18th
All 8-week sessions run on Wednesday evenings from 6:00 - 8:00 PM | In-person, Woodstock, IL
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Jeni Hallatt, Vice President of Mercyhealth
Meet Jeni Hallatt, Vice President of Mercyhealth and Vice Chair of the MCEDC, who plays a vital role in advancing both healthcare and economic development across McHenry County.
With more than 25 years of shaping healthcare delivery and access across southern Wisconsin and northern Illinois, Jeni has been a driving force in connecting healthcare and the broader economic development of the regions she serves, helping to ensure communities have the essential services they need to thrive.
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Manufacturing Pathways Consortium pop-up Job Fair
The MCEDC team joined the Manufacturing Pathways Consortium and regional partners to quickly organize a pop-up job fair in response to the Brake Parts layoffs, connecting impacted workers with local manufacturers ready to hire and keeping critical talent in our region.
Learn how partners mobilized to support workers and strengthen the manufacturing workforce pipeline.
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4 Years Running: Illinois Ranks #2 for Corporate Expansion
For the 4th year in a row, Illinois has been named the #2 state for corporate expansions and relocation projects by Site Selection magazine, tallying 680 projects, a 20% increase over 2023. Additionally, Chicago has been awarded the #1 metropolitan for the 13th year in a row.
The MCEDC is part of Team Illinois, a collaborative effort to promote Illinois’ top-tier talent, unparalleled infrastructure, and central location to create one of the best environments in the world for business growth.
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McHenry County College Job & Internship Fair 

April 8, 2026 | 11 am-1:30 pm | In person
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This event is open to students, alumni, and community members seeking internships, part-time, and full-time employment opportunities across the county.
Meet directly with local employers, explore current openings, and learn more about career pathways within the region.
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Apply for SBA Disaster Loans for Your Property Damage from the
August 2025 Storms
McHenry County business owners and residents can now apply for SBA Disaster Loans for damage from the August 16-19, 2025, storms. Read the press release for more information and apply for a disaster loan on the MySBA Loan Portal.

The deadline to apply for physical damage loans is May 15, and the deadline to apply for business economic injury loans is December 16.
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2026 McHenry County College Entrepreneurship Pitch Night

Monday, May 11, 2026 | 6-8 PM | In person
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Cheer on McHenry County high school students as they pitch their INCubator business ideas at McHenry County College.
Support the next generation of entrepreneurs and vote for your favorite team for the People’s Choice Award!
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NAMI McHenry County
NAMI McHenry County strengthens the county by providing free mental health support, education, and advocacy that help residents stay healthy, engaged, and in the workforce while offering a safe, welcoming place where individuals and families can find hope and support on their journey to improve mental health.
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PorteBrown
PorteBrown supports McHenry County’s economic growth by providing expert accounting, tax, consulting, and financial planning services that help local businesses navigate complex financial challenges and thrive. The firm’s commitment to personalized client support, community volunteerism, and active involvement in regional organizations strengthens the broader business environment and contributes to long‑term prosperity.
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The Land Conservancy of McHenry County
The Land Conservancy of McHenry County strengthens the county’s long-term economic vitality by protecting over 3,200 acres of natural, scenic, and agricultural land, preserving the landscapes and rural character that attract residents, support local agriculture, and enhance overall quality of life.
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Power the Economic Progress of McHenry County: Become an MCEDC Investor
Your support fuels strategic services, expert insights, and vital regional partnerships that drive economic growth, attract new opportunities, and build a stronger future for our community.
| | CONNECT WITH US | 815.893.0895 | info@mcedc.com | | | | | |
