2026 Theme: Live, Work, Stay.

This year’s theme will feature keynote speaker Amanda Ellis, Editor in Chief of Livability.com.

Her keynote presentation will explore the central question behind this year’s theme and ask:

What does it take to transform a community that attracts residents into one that retains talent, investment, and opportunity for the long term?

Through a discussion of place, workforce dynamics, and economic growth, the speaker will examine how communities can leverage their existing strengths to create vibrant local economies where people choose not only to live, but to build their careers, start businesses, raise families, and invest in their future. Framed by McHenry County’s unique advantages and challenges, the keynote will provide insights and strategies for fostering the jobs, amenities, and community connections that encourage residents and businesses alike to put down deeper roots and stay.

October is Manufacturing Month, a time to recognize the companies, innovators, and skilled workforce that power our local and national economy.

Here in McHenry County, manufacturing is the third-largest employment sector, providing career opportunities across industries ranging from advanced manufacturing and precision machining to medical devices, food production, and engineering.

Throughout October, we celebrate the manufacturers that create jobs, invest in innovation, strengthen supply chains, and help make McHenry County a great place to live, work, and do business. We also recognize the educators, workforce partners, and industry leaders working together to inspire and prepare the next generation of manufacturing talent.

Thank you to the manufacturers whose creativity, resilience, and commitment continue to drive economic growth and opportunity throughout our region.

Happy Manufacturing Month!

Open House at JA Logistics Showcased Newly Activated Foreign Trade Zone in McHenry County

JA Logistics hosted an open house in collaboration with MCEDC on September 24th, showcasing their newly established Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) in McHenry County. The event brought together business leaders, manufacturers, logistics professionals, and economic development partners to learn more about the advantages of operating within FTZ #176.

Representatives from BDG International, Inc. also shared valuable insights into the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) requirements and processes involved in FTZ activation and operation.

For more information on how FTZ utilization may benefit your business, contact Mark Piekos at mpiekos@mcedc.com or call (815) 893-0895.

CMR Benefits Group, Inc.

CMR Benefits Group fuels McHenry County’s economy by delivering cost-effective, customized benefits and HR solutions that help local employers attract and keep top talent while controlling healthcare costs. By relieving companies of time-consuming plan administration and converting benefits from a cost drain into a competitive asset, they enable businesses to reinvest savings into expansion and job creation across the county.

Entre Commercial Realty

Entre Commercial Realty supports the economic vitality of McHenry County by helping businesses secure, develop, and optimize commercial and industrial spaces—facilitating expansion, attracting new investment, and strengthening the region’s tax base through strategic real estate services.

LeadingIT

LeadingIT strengthens economic growth in McHenry County by providing local businesses with reliable IT support, cybersecurity services, and technology solutions that enhance productivity, protect data, and enable companies to focus on expansion and innovation. The firm also gives back through community involvement and dedicated support, helping nurture a resilient business environment across the region.

Investing in MCEDC means powering the progress of McHenry County

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.