MCEDC 2025 YEAR IN REVIEW
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Our 2025 Year in Review is now available. Read the report for a summary of business acquisition-focused programs and peer group highlights, key impacts of partnerships and business relocations and expansions, and what’s ahead for 2026.
Together, we support economic prosperity in McHenry County. |
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Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition
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Applications for the 5th cohort of our Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition (ETA) program close soon! Join a group of like-minded individuals as you learn how to buy, build, and grow an existing business.
Through 8 weeks, you’ll gain practical insight into acquisition, operations, financials, and growth while connecting with industry experts. No prior business ownership experience is required to participate. Apply for a scholarship to reduce your cost from $1,899 to $189. |
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| Interested in joining a future ETA cohort? Submit an Interest Form for more information and to secure your spot. |
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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
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Considering retirement or selling your business? Gain confidential guidance tailored to your goals and prepare for a successful exit strategy at no-cost. Connect with our Transition Advising team to get started today. |
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Illinois Small Business Development Center at MCC Partner Open House
March 18, 2026 | 9 – 11 am | In person
Celebrate National SBDC Day by joining the Illinois SBDC at McHenry County College to meet advisors, explore no‑cost business support, and learn about the Strong Transitions programs supporting entrepreneurs, small businesses, and economic growth in McHenry County and beyond.
Connect with advisors and find out how the SBDC can help your business succeed. |
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Kevin Thurston, Vice President and Commercial Lender at Home State Bank
Meet Kevin Thurston, Secretary of the MCEDC Board of Directors, who has spent over 25 years in the banking industry helping businesses grow and thrive.
By partnering closely with local business owners and providing tailored financial solutions, Kevin’s consultative approach supports economic growth, job creation, and long-term success for the county’s business community. |
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Comprehensive Conservation Plan – Open House
March 4, 2026 | 5 – 7 pm | In person
The McHenry County Conservation District is developing its Comprehensive Conservation Plan, “Forward to 2040 with a Vision to 2071,” to guide priorities and resource investments for the future of conservation across McHenry County.
Attend an Open House to learn about the planning process and share your ideas. |
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2026 Career Fair – Johnsburg High School and Richmond-Burton High School
April 16, 2026 | 12 – 2:30 PM | In person
Vendor Arrival – 11:15 AM (Setup & Lunch)
Connect with the next generation of talent at the Career Fair, hosted at Johnsburg High School. Meet hundreds of motivated students from local high schools, showcase your industry, and recruit future interns and employees.
Space is limited. Reserve your booth by April 1 to secure your spot and start building your future workforce. |
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Become a CASA Volunteer
Make a difference in the life of a child by volunteering with CASA of McHenry County.
Attend a 30-minute virtual info session to learn how trained community volunteers advocate for children in foster care and help them find safe, permanent homes.
Register today to get involved and become a voice for a child in need.
March 18, 2026 | 6:30 pm | Zoom
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April 14, 2026 | 6 pm | Zoom
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Woodstock Food Pantry St. Patrick’s Day Fundraiser
March 15, 2026 | 2 – 5 pm | In person
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day while giving back! Join the Woodstock Food Pantry at Kishwaukee Brewing Company for a festive fundraiser supporting its “Feed Our Future” campaign to fund a new, expanded facility to serve more local families.
Enjoy live Irish music, raffles, and more, or support the cause by donating to help ensure no neighbor goes hungry.
For more information, please contact Karen Haug | (361) 290-9989 or visit their website. |
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McHenry County College Job & Internship Fair
April 8, 2026 | 11 am-1:30 pm | In person
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| This event is open to students, alumni, and community members seeking internships, part-time, and full-time employment opportunities across the county.
For Job Seekers:
Meet directly with local employers, explore current openings, and learn more about career pathways within the region. |
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Reserve a booth to showcase your available positions, build brand visibility, and connect with a strong pipeline of local talent. |
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Route 47 Project Open House
March 18, 2026 | 4-6 pm | In person
Learn about the transformative Route 47 expansion and how it will enhance safety, reduce congestion, and support future growth in Woodstock.
Meet with the City of Woodstock and the Illinois Department of Transportation staff to get project updates, ask questions, and understand what the improvements mean for residents and businesses. |
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Old National Bank
Old National Bank supports economic growth in McHenry County not only through business lending and financial services but also by investing in community development, charitable giving, financial education, and volunteer efforts that strengthen neighborhoods, promote affordable housing, and help individuals and families thrive. |
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LeadingIT
LeadingIT strengthens economic growth in McHenry County by providing local businesses with reliable IT support, cybersecurity services, and technology solutions that enhance productivity, protect data, and enable companies to focus on expansion and innovation. The firm also gives back through community involvement and dedicated support, helping nurture a resilient business environment across the region. |
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AFA Dispensing
AFA Dispensing contributes to McHenry County’s economic growth by delivering innovative, high‑performance liquid dispensing technologies that help brands compete and succeed in markets worldwide, while supporting local partnerships and advanced manufacturing excellence. |
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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.
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