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Development Digest | October Edition

Manufacturing Month | October 2025

 

Tickets are now available for the 2025 MCEDC Annual Dinner, McHenry County’s premier business networking event.

The evening will also spotlight our Business Recognition Awards, celebrating the organizations and individuals fueling McHenry County’s economic success.

Join more than 400 business and community leaders on November 12, 2025, for an evening of connection, recognition, and forward momentum.

2025 Theme: Powering Business, Energizing McHenry County

This year’s theme will feature keynote speaker Wendell Dallas, President & CEO of Nicor Gas, who will share how Illinois’ largest natural gas provider is driving business expansion, workforce transformation, and community investment across the region.

Individual tickets, tables of 8, and sponsorship opportunities are now available—reserve your seat or showcase your leadership as a sponsor today!

Purchase Tickets & Explore Sponsorships

October is Manufacturing Month

October is Manufacturing Month, a time to recognize the companies and people driving innovation, workforce development, and economic growth in our region.

From advanced technologies to hands-on training programs, local manufacturers are shaping the future of McHenry County’s economy.

Read the full blog to discover the manufacturers powering our community and learn how they’re making an impact.

Explore Manufacturers in McHenry County

From the Desk of the Executive Director – Celebrating Manufacturing Month

Our Executive Director, Mark Piekos, shares his appreciation for McHenry County’s manufacturers, the skilled people whose work drives innovation, jobs, and economic growth in our community.

Join us in honoring these local industry leaders whose craft and persistence build the foundation of our region.

Read More Here

Community Opportunities

Roosevelt University Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) Open House

Looking to advance in your career? Ready to take the next steps to earn your master’s degree close to home?

Attend this Open House, hosted by the University Center at MCC and Roosevelt University (RU), to learn more about the Master of Business Administration (MBA) program.

-Meet with University Center and RU staff to talk about the admissions and financial aid processes.

-Learn about MBA class format and how the program might meet your educational and career goals.

-On-the-spot application completion will be available.

Tues, 10.28.25 | 5:30 – 7:00 PM | 222 East Church St. Woodstock

Questions?

Contact ucenter@mchenry.edu or 815-479-7600

Register Here

Celebrating ETA Graduates

 

Congratulations to the 8 graduates of our Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition program!

Over 8 weeks, these emerging and established entrepreneurs gained the tools, guidance, and real-world strategies needed to buy, build, and grow businesses in McHenry County.

We’re proud of their dedication—these leaders are helping shape a stronger, more resilient local business community.

Interested in joining future ETA classes? The third cohort begins on October 1st and runs until November 19th.

Apply today & join the waitlist.

Learn more & Join Waitlist

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 & Connect with Our Team

Built for Emerging Leaders in McHenry County

The Emerging Leaders Peer Group is the ideal group for rising stars in McHenry County to develop their leadership skills, expand their professional network, and connect with like-minded peers.

Apply to join the next meeting on October 8th and take the next step in your leadership journey!

Monthly meetings | 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM

Join the Peer Group

Investor Spotlight

General Kinematics

General Kinematics (GK) advances McHenry County’s economic development by employing over 200 people, supporting the local workforce, and producing vibratory processing equipment for global clients. GK also supports initiatives with educational institutions for those interested in a career in manufacturing, environmental stewardship, and community projects to foster strong local and global partnerships.

ComEd

ComEd bolsters McHenry County’s economic development by offering strong and reliable infrastructure, competitive energy rates, and clean-energy incentive programs that attract new and expanding businesses to the area. Through investments like their Powering Safe Communities initiative, as well as the EV rebates and numerous other clean energy customer solutions, ComEd is helping power a cleaner and more resilient future for McHenry County, as well as the 9 million people served here in northern Illinois.

Premier Commercial Realty

Premier Commercial Realty strengthens McHenry County’s economy by specializing in commercial and industrial real estate brokerage, helping businesses find and secure the ideal office, retail, or industrial spaces to support local growth. Their custom marketing strategies, deep local market expertise, and collaboration with planners and civic leaders ensure efficient property transactions that attract and retain businesses in the region

Investing in MCEDC means powering the progress of McHenry County

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

CONNECT WITH US 815.893.0895 | info@mcedc.com

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