ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT WEEK | | Economic Development Week (EDW) is a global initiative that highlights the impact of economic development and the collaborations that strengthen communities, recognizing the people, projects, and progress that drive business growth, create jobs, and enhance quality of life. | | |
Celebrate Economic Development Week in McHenry County
From workforce development and education to infrastructure, healthcare, tourism, manufacturing, and entrepreneurship, discover how community collaboration is strengthening local businesses, supporting residents, and driving long-term economic vitality throughout the region.
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The MCEDC is McHenry County's dedicated economic development organization, but our efforts in creating growth opportunities for businesses, communities, and residents aren't siloed; it takes teamwork.
Whether you're a business leader, nonprofit organization, municipality, community partner, or a supporter of the county's vitality, discover how partnerships within public and private sectors are building a stronger, more connected McHenry County.
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Collaboration for Global Growth
MCEDC and McHenry County Board representatives, as part of the Greater Chicagoland Economic Partnership (GCEP), joined leaders on a nine-day trade mission to Germany to strengthen international business relationships and promote Chicagoland as a premier destination for foreign investment and expansion.
In partnership with World Business Chicago and the German American Chamber of Commerce Midwest, the delegation engaged with global industry leaders to showcase the region’s economic opportunities, workforce, and innovation ecosystem.
Read the full press release to learn how these collaborative efforts are helping drive long-term growth across McHenry County and the Chicagoland region.
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Shane Nerby, Vice President of Operations at JA Group
Meet Shane Nerby, Vice President of Operations at JA Group and Board Member of the MCEDC. For nearly 15 years, Shane has helped lead the growth of JA Group, a family-owned transportation, logistics, and warehousing company rooted in McHenry County. As a Board Member of the MCEDC, Shane brings valuable leadership, industry expertise, and a passion for supporting the businesses and residents that make our county thrive.
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McHenry County Awarded $4.7M in Grant Support & Site Readiness
Two McHenry County communities were awarded nearly $4.7 million through the Illinois Regional Site Readiness Program to support future economic development and industrial growth.
The City of Marengo received a $4.6 million capital grant to extend water and sewer infrastructure near the I-90/IL-23 interchange.
The City of McHenry secured a $120,000 planning grant for environmental assessments at Ebel Farms to prepare the site for future development.
MCEDC's collaborative efforts with Region 1 Planning Council, the City of McHenry, the City of Marengo, and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity are helping strengthen site readiness, attract private investment, and position McHenry County for long-term economic growth.
Read the full press release to learn more about this regional investment and partnership-driven progress.
| | | | Strengthening Business Continuity in McHenry County | | |
Congratulations to the graduates of our 5th cohort of the Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition (ETA) program.
Over the past eight weeks, 13 participants explored the fundamentals of buying, operating, and growing an existing business through hands-on learning and expert-led sessions.
With five successful cohorts completed, the Strong Transitions ETA program has now graduated 56 aspiring business buyers, helping strengthen the future of business ownership and economic growth in McHenry County.
| | Planning Your Exit or 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.
| Interested in joining a future ETA cohort? Submit an Interest Form for more information and to secure your spot. | | |
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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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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First Mid Bank & Trust
First Mid Bank & Trust contributes to McHenry County's economic vitality by providing comprehensive financial services, including business financing, mortgage assistance, and treasury management, that support local businesses and promote regional growth.
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Cary-Grove Area Chamber of Commerce
The Cary-Grove Area Chamber of Commerce supports McHenry County’s economic vitality by connecting businesses to valuable networking opportunities, marketing exposure, and educational programs that foster visibility, engagement, and growth. By bridging commerce and community through events, partnerships, and business-focused programming, the Chamber strengthens the local economy and enhances the quality of life across Cary, Fox River Grove, and the surrounding areas.
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Leadership Greater McHenry County
Leadership Greater McHenry County supports the economic vitality of McHenry County by developing and connecting leaders across business, education, government, and nonprofit sectors, building a strong pipeline of engaged professionals who drive collaboration, strengthen organizations, and shape the county’s future.
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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 | | | | | |
