Gov. Pritzker Builds on Economic Momentum as Global Companies Choose Illinois to Invest and Grow
Illinois committed job creation in first quarter of 2026 outpacing recent years
April 1, 2026
CHICAGO – In just the first quarter of 2026, a growing list of global companies are choosing Illinois to invest, expand, and create jobs—driving early-year momentum that has is already outpacing total job creation commitments in recent years.
Companies participating in the Economic Development for a Growing Economy (EDGE) program have committed to creating nearly 4,000 jobs and nearly $2.5 billion in committed investments so far this year, exceeding the total number of jobs committed through EDGE and Reimaging Energy and Vehicles (REV) programs in 2025. These figures represent just one portion of private sector investment and job growth happening across Illinois.
“The rest of the world is starting to capitalize on what we have long known to be true: Illinois is the best place to live, work, and raise a family,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “Global companies continue to choose Illinois for our central location, strong infrastructure, and the hard-working people who make up our diverse workforce. From advanced manufacturing and life sciences to film production, these investments mean more jobs and more goods being produced right here in Illinois.”
“Illinois' record-breaking investments and growth help maintain our state's reputation as a global economic powerhouse,” said DCEO Director Kristin Richards. “Prioritizing our incentive programs has not only resulted in Illinois earning national economic development rankings, but it has also increased job opportunities for hardworking Illinoisians across the state. Most importantly, it has ensured Illinois remains the best place to live, work, and do business.”
Governor Pritzker has focused on making Illinois the best place in the country to do business—prioritizing affordability, workforce development, fiscal responsibility, and long-term economic stability. That strategy is continuing to deliver results across key industries part of the Illinois Economic Growth Plan.
GLOBAL COMPANIES CHOOSING ILLINOIS FOR ADVANCED MANUFACTURING AND INNOVATION
Manufacturers are selecting Illinois as a hub for innovation and production—drawn by the state’s skilled workforce, central location, and strong infrastructure:
- DMG MORI is expanding its Illinois footprint with a $40.5 million investment with plans for a new advanced manufacturing and research development facility. The new R&D facility will support key strategic initiatives, including a dedicated workforce development partnership with City Colleges of Chicago. This training program will connect students from the state’s community college system—the third largest in the nation—with careers in advanced manufacturing.
- Hyundai Translead chose Illinois for a new manufacturing operation in Will County, bringing a $450 million investment and creating nearly 2,500 new jobs—one of the largest job creation announcements in recent state history. The new operation will revitalize two dormant manufacturing facilities that will increase production capacity for the commercial transportation product.
LEADING LIFE SCIENCES AND BIOPHARMACEUTICAL MANUFACTURING
Global life sciences companies are choosing Illinois to grow, innovate, and manufacture next-generation therapies:
- CSL, a global biotherapeutics leader, is investing $1.5 billion in Illinois—one of the largest life sciences investments in state history—underscoring Illinois’ role as a leader in cutting-edge medical research and production. The company’s Kankakee campus will retain more than 1,200 existing positions and create 300 new full-time jobs for the area.
- AbbVie is expanding its North Chicago manufacturing campus with a $380 million investment, building new state-of-the-art facilities and creating 300 new jobs to support the production of next-generation neuroscience and obesity-reduction medicines.
LEADING THE FOOD INNOVATION INDUSTRY
- Mars Snacking is expanding its footprint in Illinois—creating 600 new jobs and investing $100 million as it expands its global headquarters in Chicago, building on more than 4,000 existing jobs across the state. Mars will establish new hubs in Fulton Market and River North, reinforcing Illinois’ position as a leader in food manufacturing and innovation.
- Savencia Cheese USA announced it will expand its existing production facility in Lena, Illinois, transferring production know-how from France to Illinois. As a result, the company will be adding a new production line as part of its capital investment and 50 new full-time jobs while retaining 125 existing jobs.
ILLINOIS IS CEMENTING ITSELF AS A TOP DESTINTION FOR FILM & TELEVISION PRODUCTION
- In 2025, Illinois set a record high of $703 million in Film and TV production expenditures—supporting an estimated 18,000 jobs statewide and more than $400 million in wages. Driven by Gov. Pritzker’s strategic investments and expansion and extension of the Illinois Film Production Tax Credit, Illinois continues to attract major productions and talent—cementing its position as one of the nation’s top destinations for film and television.
AN ECONOMIC STRATEGY THAT’S DELIVERING RESULTS
Illinois’ strong start to 2026 reflects a broader trend: companies are consistently choosing Illinois over competing states.
- Illinois has ranked #2 in the nation for corporate expansions and relocations for four consecutive years
- Illinois is ranked #1 in the Midwest and #3 in the country for workforce development
- CNBC’s Best States for Business ranks Illinois #13 up 17 spots since 2019
With record investments and job creation already underway in 2026, Illinois is building on its momentum—proving that a focus on fiscal responsibility, economic growth, and opportunity is driving businesses to choose Illinois.
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