CHICAGO (WAND) \u2014 Illinois leaders are highlighting a year of record-setting economic growth in 2025, marked by major investments, job creation, and gains across key industries.<\/p>\n
Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity announced the state reached a record $13 billion in incentivized private investments, supported by programs like EDGE and REV. Those investments helped create nearly 3,000 new jobs and retain thousands more statewide.<\/p>\n
\u201cIllinois\u2019 year of record-breaking economic growth didn\u2019t happen by accident \u2013 it was driven by smart targeted investments, fiscal discipline and a clear vision for long term growth,\u201d said Governor JB Pritzker. \u201cWe\u2019re attracting record levels of private sector investments, creating good-paying jobs in every region of the state, and leading the nation in emerging industries like quantum, clean energy, and advanced manufacturing – and we are just getting started. By continuing to invest in innovation, workforce development, and small businesses, Illinois is positioning itself to compete and win in the global economy for decades to come.\u201d<\/p>\n
Illinois also earned 10 credit rating upgrades since 2021, reflecting improved financial stability after years of budget challenges. National rankings placed Illinois among the top states for business, education, infrastructure, and corporate investment.<\/p>\n
Tourism reached new highs, with 113 million visitors spending a record $48.5 billion, while film production expenditures hit the second-highest level in state history at $653 million. Illinois also strengthened its role as a global leader in quantum technology, breaking ground on the Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park in Chicago.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhether people are coming for work or play, the message is clear: Illinois is a destination,\u201d said Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton. \u201cStrategic investments are fueling record growth and opening doors for families and communities across our state. The future of Illinois is bright!\u201d\u00a0<\/p>\n
State officials say continued investments in small businesses, workforce development, clean energy, and innovation are positioning Illinois for long-term economic growth heading into 2026.<\/p>\n
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