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Development Digest | February 2026 Edition

 

 

Meet the 2026 MCEDC Board of Directors

 

We’re proud to introduce the 2026 MCEDC Board of Directors, a dynamic group of leaders representing the public and private sectors who are committed to advancing economic growth across McHenry County.

This year’s Board brings together diverse expertise in business, government, workforce development, and community leadership, ensuring MCEDC’s work remains collaborative, strategic, and responsive to the needs of our region.

Together, these leaders will help guide efforts to attract, retain, and expand businesses while strengthening the long-term vitality of McHenry County.

Meet the MCEDC Board and Learn How this Leadership Team is Built for Impact 
 

 

McHenry County Workforce Network Seeks Partners – Request for Proposals Available

 

The McHenry County Workforce Network (MCWN) Board has released three Requests for Proposals (RFP) inviting qualified organizations and companies to support key workforce services across our community.

These opportunities are designed to strengthen career services for adults, expand support for young adults, and improve coordination of workforce-related services at the local One-Stop Center.

 

 

Adult Career Services RFP

Aims to enhance the employment opportunities and career progression for adults within our community. They are seeking proposals that will offer job seeker support, including providing assistance to build job seeking knowledge to laid that next job.

Learn more & Submit
Young Adult Services RFP 

Dedicated to empowering young individuals by providing them with the necessary skills and resources to succeed in their career paths. They are looking for innovative programs that will engage and support the youth in achieving their career goals.

One-Stop Operator RFP

This is a unique opportunity to streamline and manage their workforce services under one roof. They are seeking proposals to efficiently coordinate Workforce Services at the Local One-Stop Center in Woodstock.

 

 

All Request for Proposals are due Monday, February 16. For more information or questions about the RFPs, contact:

Jake Rohn, Director of MCWN Board | jmrohn@mchenrycountyil.gov

 

Smart Capital Solutions & Finances to Fuel Your Growth – Explore Invest in Illinois Programs

The Illinois State Treasurer’s Invest in Illinois programs help businesses access capital by providing below-market investment deposits to participating banks.

These programs reduce lender risk and expand access to credit for small businesses, first-time homebuyers, and borrowers who may not otherwise qualify for traditional financing, strengthening local economies across Illinois.

Linked Deposit Programs

Provides below-market, impact-investment deposits to Illinois financial institutions so they can offer low-interest loans to qualified borrowers.

Ag Invest: Provides below-market rate loans to qualified farmers, agri-businesses and agriculture professionals to help them start, expand, or add value to their farm operations.
Explore Ag Invest
Business Invest: Expands access to low-cost financing by partnering with lenders to help businesses in underserved communities grow, invest, and create jobs.
Explore Business Invest
Community Invest: Expands access to affordable loans for individuals and families in underserved communities, helping build financial stability and strengthen local economies.
Explore Community Invest
 

Loan Guarantee Programs

Helps banks reduce risk and extend credit to small businesses, first-time homebuyers, and borrowers who may not otherwise qualify for traditional financing.

Business Loan Guarantee Program: Helps small businesses in low-income communities access financing they might not otherwise receive by providing lenders with state-backed loan guarantees of up to 25%.
Explore Business Loan Guarantee
Finally Home: Helps Illinois residents who struggle to qualify for traditional mortgages purchase or refinance a home by providing lenders with a state-backed loan guarantee that makes affordable financing possible.
Explore Finally Home

Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition

Step Into Business Ownership: Apply to Join the ETA Program

Ready to skip the startup phase and step into business ownership?

Apply for the Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition (ETA) program, an 8-week, instructor-led course designed to help emerging and existing entrepreneurs learn how to buy, build, and grow an existing business.

Participants gain practical insight into acquisition, operations, and growth while connecting with peers and industry experts.

No prior business ownership experience is required.

Learn More & Apply

2026 Cohorts

Cohort 6

August 5th – September 23rd

Cohort 7

September 30th – November 18th

All sessions run on Wednesday evenings from 6:00 – 8:00 PM

In-person sessions in Woodstock, IL

Interested in joining a future ETA cohort? Submit an Interest Form for more information and to secure your spot.

Submit Cohort Interest Form

 

If you’re considering retiring, selling, or passing your business to the next generation, our Transition Advising program offers confidential, one-on-one guidance tailored to your goals and values at no cost.

You’ll work with experienced advisors to assess readiness, build a transition team, evaluate and strengthen your company’s value, and prepare for a successful exit strategy.

Learn more and Connect with our Team 

MCEDC #Member Spotlight

Peter Scholl, Owner & Founder of Scholl Construction Company

Meet Peter Scholl, Treasurer of the MCEDC Board of Directors. Peter has been in business for 23 years and brings a lifetime of experience in construction and business leadership, valuable financial insight and strategic perspective to the board.

His career is rooted in building more than projects; it’s about strengthening businesses, leadership, and community.

 

Learn about Peter’s Journey & His Impact Across McHenry County

 

 

Investor Spotlight

Northwestern Medicine

Northwestern Medicine drives economic growth in McHenry County by providing world-class healthcare and investing in workforce development, training, and education programs that create jobs and strengthen local talent. Committed to building stronger communities, NM partners with local organizations to remove barriers to better health while supporting business growth and fostering healthier, more resilient neighborhoods.

Nicor Gas

Nicor Gas fuels economic vitality in McHenry County and beyond by providing reliable, affordable energy that supports industrial and business growth and attracts investment, while also investing millions through community impact initiatives that strengthen local economies, expand workforce opportunities, and foster inclusive supplier partnerships.

Express Employment Professionals

Express Employment Professionals supports the region’s economic development by connecting local businesses with skilled talent and helping residents secure meaningful employment. Their staffing expertise and community commitment support workforce growth, stability, and business resilience across McHenry County

 

 

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.

Want to Make an Impact?

Become an Investor