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Governor Pritzker Announces $15 Million Investment to Build New Manufacturing Training Academies in Downstate Communities

Funding Will Increase Access to Manufacturing Training and Create Pipeline for 21st Century Talent

CHAMPAIGN, IL– Governor JB Pritzker joined the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), the Illinois Community College Board (ICCB) and industry leaders in announcing a first-of-its-kind program to expand manufacturing training opportunities for Illinois residents. Through a $15 million Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) released today, Illinois will establish two new innovative Manufacturing Trainings Academies that will expand opportunities for skills training, boost retention of manufacturers in downstate communities, and attract more investment by manufacturing companies throughout Illinois.

“I’m proud to announce today that Illinois is dedicating $15 million to establish two downstate manufacturing training academies to address the shortage of skilled workers. We’re investing directly in communities and in companies with programs that will allow businesses to grow, retain and attract new talent for higher paying jobs of the future,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “These new Manufacturing Training Academies will provide 21st century manufacturing training to help more of our residents bring the right skills to the workplace, while helping Illinois companies keep up as they retool to remain competitive for the future. And through this program, we will bring investments where they are most needed, specifically for downstate communities, where these cutting-edge training opportunities have not been as widely available.”

Through a competitive NOFO process, DCEO will provide a total of $15 million for two capital grants to fund the construction of new facilities to house two new Manufacturing Training Academies in downstate Illinois. The NOFO is seeking proposals from community colleges to provide cutting-edge training programs that will equip students for an array of well-paying skilled manufacturing jobs that require specialized training.

The Manufacturing Training Academies are part of the economic vision for growth and equity put forward by the Governor’s 5-year economic plan, which offers a blueprint for growth among the state’s strongest and highest growth potential sectors – including manufacturing.  These academies will offer specialized training that’s not widely available at downstate community colleges for high-demand manufacturing jobs such as machinery mechanics and computer numerically controlled (CNC) machine operators and programmers.

“Manufacturing has long been at the heart of Illinois’ economy and with these timely and critical investments we will ensure we capture a large share of the industry’s projected growth in the years ahead—which represents boundless opportunities for the next generation of workers and a pathway to well-paying jobs of the future,” said DCEO Director Erin B. Guthrie. “Under the leadership of Governor Pritzker, we will continue to make key investments to that will not only attract new companies but ensure our current businesses have the talent and resources to flourish.”

Eligible applicants for the Manufacturing Training Academies NOFO include community college districts or coalitions of community college districts in downstate Illinois, which includes all of Illinois outside of Cook and the collar counties, areas which face difficulty in recruiting for manufacturing and retaining manufacturers due to a shortage in training resources.  The Illinois Community College Board (ICCB), representing Illinois’ 39 community college districts, partnered with DCEO in creating the project proposal.

“As Illinois’ largest workforce training provider, community colleges statewide have the expertise to partner with local communities to help guide our residents on the path to meaningful careers through these new facilities,” said Brian Durham, Executive Director of the Illinois Community College Board (ICCB). “Manufacturing remains an important and growing industry for our state, and we are poised, with the right investments, to ensure more Illinoisans get the opportunities they need to train for these 21st century jobs. The ICCB and the community college system stand ready to work with the Governor and other local partners to help lead this initiative.”

Future training academies will address a skills shortage that is being faced by employers across the nation as they adopt new technologies in manufacturing production. These new training centers will help meet the needs of regional employers, located in communities where specialized programming is not broadly available at the local community colleges.

“The future of manufacturing is already here. Technologies like collaborative robots and artificial intelligence are reshaping the skill needs in manufacturing,” said David Boulay, President and CEO of the Illinois Manufacturing Excellence Center (IMEC). “New investments by the State of Illinois to create Manufacturing Training Academies offer the promise to not only reimagine manufacturing jobs but also to upskill our talented workforce and ensure our Illinois manufacturers remain globally competitive.”

The new program was announced today at Eden Park Illumination, an Illinois-based start-up company producing one-of-a-kind UV lighting used across several industries. Eden Park borne out of research by professors Dr. Gary Eden and Dr. Sung-Jin Park from the world-leading College of Engineering at the University of Illinois. In recent months the company has increased its manufacturing output by a factor of ten and has tripled hiring. To keep up with current and future demand, the company plans to hire additional manufacturing workers, and like other companies in the region, is seeking skilled labor to fill these roles.

“Given the new demands facing all of our communities due to COVID-19, Eden Park is committed to developing solutions that will bring us back safer and more prepared than ever before,” said John Yerger, CEO of Eden Park Illumination. “To keep up with current and future demand, Illinois companies like ours are making plans today to invest in training and workforce development that will prepare workers for more exciting innovations that lie ahead.  Future Illinois Manufacturing Training Academies will support Illinois employers by ensuring more local residents are equipped for the increasingly technical jobs of the future.”

The academies will also develop extensive partnerships for curricular support, operational funding, recruitment, and job placement, including with private-sector employers, K-12 schools and Illinois’ Local Workforce Innovation Boards.

“Manufacturing is an important pillar in many of our communities and infuses new dollars into our economy,” said State Senator Scott Bennett (D-Champaign). “This critical investment will help rebuild our economy as we continue to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic.”

More than 18,000 Illinois companies manufacture a wide range of products, employ over 550,000 residents, and produce a wide range goods which account for nearly $60 billion in exports every year – making Illinois the fourth largest state in the U.S. for international exports, and Illinois-made products in hundreds of countries around the world.  By 2028, an estimated 4.6 million new manufacturing jobs will need to be filled nationwide. Illinois, with its productive workforce, central location, high-quality infrastructure, and strong foundation in a diverse range of manufacturing sectors, is well-positioned to compete for these jobs.

“Manufacturing has always been an integral part of the Illinois economy, and today’s announcement will help support companies in addressing their current and future workforce needs,” said Carly McCrory-McKay, Executive Director of the Champaign County Economic Development Corporation. “We appreciate Governor Pritzker and DCEO’s continued support of our Illinois manufacturers and look forward to working with economic and workforce development partners across the state of Illinois to encourage more people to explore the possibilities of modern manufacturing and gain the skills necessary for careers in the 21st century.”

Today’s announcement coincides with October’s designation as Manufacturing Month in Illinois.  Throughout the month, DCEO has hosted numerous virtual events and webinars showcasing some of the state’s industry leading companies, allowing residents and communities to engage and learn more about manufacturing growth and exciting opportunities of working in the modern-day manufacturing industry. For more on these events and to receive the latest updates on manufacturing beyond this month, please visit DCEO’s website or follow along on social @IllinoisDCEO.

View the press release here.

Press:

During Champaign visit, Pritzker announces manufacturing training academies, The News-Gazette

At Champaign manufacturer, Pritzker announces training academies, The News-Gazette

During Champaign Visit, Pritzker Unveils Plan To Support Manufacturing In Illinois, Illinois Newsroom

Governor announces funding opportunities for manufacturing job training, WCIA 3 News

New manufacturing training academies to be established in downstate Illinois, WAND 17

New manufacturing training academies coming to Illinois, FOX Illinois

2019 Innovation Celebration Winners Announced

CHAMPAIGN, IL, April 1, 2019 – Over 350 people gathered at Parkland College for the 14th Annual Innovation Celebration on the evening of Friday, March 29 to recognize those individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions, taken risks, and provided leadership to ensure the continuing economic success of Champaign County, the ongoing success of the University’s economic development mission, and the growth of entrepreneurial talent and energy in our community.

Innovation Celebration is not merely an award for accomplishment, but a benchmark of success for those outstanding individuals, organizations and corporations who are nominated and selected to receive this prestigious award.

Innovation Celebration is hosted by the Champaign County Economic Development Corporation in partnership with the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Parkland College, and community sponsors. For more information, visit www.innovationcelebration.com.

Entrepreneurial Excellence: Social Venture Award
Serve as change agents by creating and implementing sustainable solutions to reshape society, benefit humanity, and address social concerns.

New American Welcome Center at the University YMCA

Entrepreneurial Excellence: Student Startup Award
Formed by students in the last three years and demonstrates a commitment to continuing success through entrepreneurial talent, creativity and energy.

RingWing, LLC

Entrepreneurial Excellence: New Venture Award
Formed in the last three years, and demonstrates a commitment to continuing success through entrepreneurial talent, creativity and energy.

EarthSense, Inc.

Entrepreneurial Excellence: Paul Magelli Advocacy Award
Actively engage, encourage, coach and mentor entrepreneurs in the community, and provide extensive support to help them achieve success.

Roland Garton

Entrepreneurial Excellence: Management Award
Demonstrates expertise in assembling resources, creating an organization, and working to build and implement effective action plans.

Landon Frye, Jake Kreider, and Sophie Roney – Granular, Inc.

Innovation: Economic Development Impact Award
Has made a significant economic development impact in the community and continues to demonstrate their commitment to Champaign County.

Matt Cho (Cake Design Development)

Innovation Transfer Award—University of Illinois
Recognizes an individual or group from the University of Illinois whose research has resulted in either a discovery or a work with the potential for significant societal impact.

Dr. Andrew Alleyne – Thermosys™ / POETS Engineering Research Center

 

Alexis Wernsing Innovation Award—University of Illinois
Recognizes an individual or team from the University of Illinois that has channeled their experience living with a disability into positive change through the creation of new products, environments, or protocols that enhance quality of life.

Adam Bleakney – Illinois Wheelchair Athletics

Innovation in Engagement Award—Parkland College
Recognizes an individual or group at Parkland College who has shown support of the college’s community engagement mission.

Peg Boyce – Dental Hygiene Program

The EDC was pleased to work with the following sponsors of our 14th Annual Innovation Celebration: the University of Illinois’ Technology Entrepreneur Center, Research Park, Office of Corporate Relations, and Office of Technology Management, along with Parkland College, Lodgic Everyday Community, Carle, Serra Ventures, Surface 51, Singleton Law Firm, City of Champaign, Ramshaw Real Estate, Litania Sports Group, Pixo, Hatch Ag Group, Huawei R&D USA Champaign, Hanson Financial, Community Solutions Incubator at the Community Foundation of East Central Illinois, Illinois Small Business Development Center at Champaign County EDC, Prominic.NET, IllinoisVENTURES, and Busey.

A special thanks to Five Foot Productions for producing the videos.

 

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Press:

Nine awards handed out at 14th annual Innovation Celebration, The News-Gazette

Here are the winners from this year’s Innovation Celebration, Smile Politely

UI research lab director to be feted at 14th annual Innovation Celebration, The News-Gazette

2019 Innovation Celebration Finalists Announced

CHAMPAIGN, IL, February 26, 2019 – The Champaign County Economic Development Corporation is pleased to announce finalists for the 14th Annual Innovation Celebration in recognition of those individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions, taken risks, and provided leadership to ensure the continuing economic success of Champaign County, the ongoing success of the University’s economic development mission, and the growth of entrepreneurial talent and energy in our community.

Innovation Celebration is not merely an award for accomplishment, but a benchmark of success for those outstanding individuals, organizations and corporations who are nominated and selected to receive this prestigious award. Additionally, Innovation Celebration serves as a tangible collaboration between the Champaign County EDC, University of Illinois, Parkland College, and the community.

The winner of each award category will be announced at Innovation Celebration 2019, held at Parkland College on Friday, March 29 from 5:30 – 8:30 PM. To RSVP and learn more about the event, visit www.innovationcelebration.com.

Award finalists – winners to be announced at the event:

Entrepreneurial Excellence: Social Venture Award
Serve as change agents by creating and implementing sustainable solutions to reshape society, benefit humanity, and address social concerns.

Entrepreneurial Excellence: Student Startup Award
Formed by students in the last three years and demonstrates a commitment to continuing success through entrepreneurial talent, creativity and energy.

Entrepreneurial Excellence: New Venture Award
Formed in the last three years, and demonstrates a commitment to continuing success through entrepreneurial talent, creativity and energy.

Entrepreneurial Excellence: Paul Magelli Advocacy Award
Actively engage, encourage, coach and mentor entrepreneurs in the community, and provide extensive support to help them achieve success.

  • Mark Aardsma
  • Edwin Moore
  • Roland Garton

Entrepreneurial Excellence: Management Award
Demonstrates expertise in assembling resources, creating an organization, and working to build and implement effective action plans.

Innovation: Economic Development Impact Award
Has made a significant economic development impact in the community and continues to demonstrate their commitment to Champaign County.

Award winners – announced ahead of the event:

2019 Innovation Transfer Award—University of Illinois
Recognizes an individual or group from the University of Illinois whose research has resulted in either a discovery or a work with the potential for significant societal impact.

 2019 Alexis Wernsing Innovation Award—University of Illinois
Recognizes an individual or team from the University of Illinois that has channeled their experience living with a disability into positive change through the creation of new products, environments, or protocols that enhance quality of life.

2019 Innovation in Engagement Award—Parkland College
Recognizes an individual or group at Parkland College who has shown support of the college’s community engagement mission.

The EDC is pleased to work with the following sponsors of our 14th Annual Innovation Celebration: the University of Illinois’ Technology Entrepreneur Center, Research Park, Office of Corporate Relations, and Office of Technology Management, along with Parkland College, Lodgic Everyday Community, Carle, Serra Ventures, Surface 51, Singleton Law Firm, City of Champaign, Ramshaw Real Estate, Litania Sports Group, Pixo, Hatch Ag Group, Huawei R&D USA Champaign, Hanson Financial, Community Solutions Incubator at the Community Foundation of East Central Illinois, Illinois Small Business Development Center at Champaign County EDC, Prominic.NET, IllinoisVENTURES, and Busey.

 

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Press:

Here are the 2019 Innovation Celebration finalists, Smile Politely

Finalists announced for 14th annual Innovation Celebration, The News-Gazette

Champaign-Urbana Ranked Top Startup City By Silicon Prairie News

For Immediate Release

Contacts:

Laura Bleill, Associate Director
University of Illinois Research Park
217-244-7744
lwbleill@illinois.edu
www.researchpark.illinois.edu
www.yourewelcomecu.com

Carly McCrory, Executive Director
Champaign County Economic Development Corporation
217-359-6261
carly@champaigncountyedc.org
www.champaigncountyedc.org
www.yourewelcomecu.com

CHAMPAIGN-URBANA RANKED TOP STARTUP CITY BY SILICON PRAIRIE NEWS

CHAMPAIGN, IL, February 13, 2019 – In a new study measuring the startup ecosystems of an 11-state region it calls “the Silicon Prairie”, Champaign-Urbana ranked Number 2 out of 42 communities analyzed for startup and entrepreneurial activity.

Champaign-Urbana ranks above much larger cities including Minneapolis, St. Louis and Kansas City.

“We’re thrilled to receive this community ranking which recognizes and celebrates the incredible entrepreneurship culture and resources we have in Champaign-Urbana, Illinois’ fastest-growing city,” said Carly McCrory, Executive Director of the Champaign County EDC.

“Breaking this down, the “grade” we are most proud of coming out of this report is the “A” in the community spirit category,” said Research Park director Laura Frerichs. “This reflects our strongest asset as a knowledge city – an engaged community that thrives on true collaboration and strong partnerships.”

College towns are a “magnet” for startup and entrepreneurship activity. In addition to Champaign, Madison, Ames, Iowa; Columbia, Missouri; and Iowa City all rank in the top 12.

“Champaign, Illinois, home of the University of Illinois, dramatically overperforms expectations based on population – finishing in the Top Five. For example, in 2017 the community had 21 venture fundings for nearly $75 million dollars. There were also 37 SBIR/STTR grants in the region. These elements suggest that early stage companies and research are generating hundreds of jobs in Champaign (between 390- 620).”

The study also indicates that Illinois as a state, although expected to be strong due to its size, overperforms its “expected value” when it comes to venture capital. Chicago was the overall No. 1 community measured; Springfield also made it into the top 20.

“Venture Capital funding activity in the region increased by 28% from 2016 to 2018 despite the decreasing number of companies receiving funding. Chicago was a significant spur for the region – but other communities such as Lincoln, Nebraska and Champaign, Illinois provided valuable community funding growth,” the report reads.

The study was performed by Chapman and Company out of Omaha. The 11 states measured include Arkansas, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Wisconsin, North Dakota, and South Dakota.

The methodology for the report measured eight specific components:

  • Small business activity
  • Cool jobs
  • Sustaining companies
  • Structure
  • Innovation
  • Venture investment
  • Community spirit
  • Connectivity

“Chapman and Company attempted to measure those components using relatively near-term measurements,” says the report. “The challenge in measuring startup activity and entrepreneurship is that there is always a desire for more accuracy – but more accuracy usually occurs at the cost of time or comparables.”

The full report is available here: http://siliconprairienews.com/2019/02/spn-special-report-the-2018-state-of-the-silicon-prairie/

 

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SBA Administrator Linda McMahon Visits Champaign

Through our Illinois Small Business Development Center at Champaign County EDC and in partnership with University of Illinois Research Park, we were honored to host U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Administrator Linda McMahon in Champaign today, September 24.

This visit is a continuation of the Administrator’s nationwide SBA Ignite Tour dedicated to highlighting SBA programs that help entrepreneurs start businesses, grow their companies, and create jobs in the local community.

We highlighted small businesses in our community, including Serionix, AirScout, Petronics, and Reconstruct – all located in EnterpriseWorks at University of Illinois Research Park.

In addition to showcasing small businesses, we also talked about our local entrepreneurial ecosystem and the services / programs we have in place to help small businesses succeed, including services through the SBDC / International Trade Center and programs like University of Illinois Research Park’s Shared Services Program and the City of Champaign’s Small Business Incentive Program.

View photos here.

About the U.S. Small Business Administration: The U.S. Small Business Administration makes the American dream of business ownership a reality. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow or expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

Press:

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