Development Digest | January 2026 Edition

Written on January 1, 2026.

Happy New Year from the MCEDC Team!

As we step into the new year, the MCEDC team looks forward to connecting with the McHenry County business community through meaningful networking opportunities, economic development events, entrepreneurship and business transition programs, peer groups, and more.

Guided by our mission to support the McHenry County community by attracting, retaining, and expanding businesses, we’re excited for another year of collaboration focused on strengthening the region’s economic vitality.

Thank you for being an essential part of this shared effort. We look forward to connecting, collaborating, and growing together in the year ahead.

Mark Piekos

Executive Director

Kristen Gesicki

Marketing & Outreach Coordinator

Kick Off the New Year with Strong Transitions Kickoff Event!

Jan 15

Strong Transitions Kickoff

Connect with fellow entrepreneurs, business owners, and community leaders at the Strong Transitions Kickoff, a networking and informational event designed to support growth, collaboration, and leadership transitions.

Learn about ongoing Strong Transitions programs that help emerging entrepreneurs and business owners plan their next move, explore acquisition opportunities, and access expert transition advising.

Hear from our ETA graduates and transition advisors, gain insights on business growth, acquisitions, and leadership transitions, and explore resources to help your business thrive.

Register

Step Into Business Ownership: Apply to Join the 4th Cohort of ETA

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. Apply by January 12 to secure your spot.

Cohort 4
January 14 – March 4, 2026

Wednesday evenings from 6:00 – 8:00 PM

In person sessions in Woodstock, IL

Explore ETA & Apply Today

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 value, and prepare for a successful exit strategy.

Learn More & Connect with Our Team

MCEDC #Member Spotlight

Colleen Roos, President at CMR Benefits Group, Inc.

As the newly appointed Chair of the MCEDC Board of Directors, Colleen Roos is dedicated to driving economic development across McHenry County.

With deep roots in the community and a career focused on supporting businesses and employees, Colleen is committed to fostering collaboration and advancing MCEDC’s mission to attract, retain, and expand businesses throughout the region.

Discover how Colleen is helping shape McHenry County’s economic future

Work Experience & Incumbent Worker Training Programs

Looking for talent to join the team? The McHenry County Workforce Network is offering programs to business owners looking for internships and work training.

The Work Experience/Internship program is designed for local businesses to gain access to talent at no cost.

100% of intern wages are covered during their placement, allowing employers to train and evaluate potential future employees with zero financial risk.

Internships can be tailored to fit the needs of your organization with no obligation to hire once the internship is completed.

Learn More about Work Experience/Internship

The Incumbent Worker Training Program helps businesses upskill their current employees by providing financial assistance for approved training.

Whether you’re looking to enhance technical skills, leadership abilities, or industry-specific certifications, the team can offset a significant portion of the training costs.

This program supports employers in staying competitive, improving productivity, and retaining a skilled workforce while reducing the financial burden of professional development.

Learn More about Incumbent Worker Training

For more information about either program, contact: Pete Hall, Business Service Rep | pchall@mchenrycountyil.gov | 815-334-2773

Investor Spotlight

McHenry County College

McHenry County College supports the McHenry County community by providing accessible, high-quality education and career pathways that prepare individuals for in-demand jobs and long-term success. By equipping students with relevant skills and credentials, MCC strengthens the local workforce and directly fuels economic development and vitality across McHenry County.

Exemplar Financial Network

Exemplar Financial Network strengthens economic vitality in McHenry County by providing personalized financial planning, retirement, investment, and legacy services that help residents and local businesses build long-term financial security and make informed decisions about growth and continuity. By providing tailored advisory services that support financial stability, wealth preservation, and business continuity, Exemplar plays a key role in fostering economic opportunities across McHenry County.

Baxter & Woodman

Baxter & Woodman contributes to McHenry County’s economic vitality by planning and delivering essential infrastructure and community projects that support safe growth, sustainable development, and improved quality of life for residents and businesses. Their engineering, urban planning, and environmental services help local governments and developers build resilient, efficient systems that attract investment and enable long-term economic competitiveness across the region.

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?