Join us for an evening of celebration, connection, and inspiration as we honor the businesses and community leaders who power McHenry County’s economic vitality.
Mark your calendars for Wednesday, November 12th, and be part of one of the region’s premier events.
Interested in becoming a 2025 sponsor? Fill out the form below.
Built for Emerging and Existing 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 September 10th and take the next step in your leadership journey!
Ready to own and grow an existing business? Learn the ins and outs of business acquisition through our Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition (ETA) workshop. Over eight weeks, you’ll gain the tools and strategies to successfully buy, operate, and scale an existing business, while connecting with peers and experts who are on similar acquisition journeys.
Apply today to join the next cohort, running October 1st – November 19th.
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.
The Manufacturing Pathways Consortium recently celebrated the 4th Summer High School Internship Program, honoring the next generation of workforce talent!
Over 85 local high school students spent their summer gaining hands-on experience in McHenry County’s 10-week manufacturing and construction internships.
Learn more about MPC and sign up for the Summer 2026 Internship Program: mfgpathways.com
September is Workforce Development Month! Workforce development is the backbone of McHenry County’s economic growth, and we’re celebrating the people, programs, and partnerships making it happen. Read a letter from our Executive Director to learn how local organizations are shaping a stronger, more resilient workforce, and how you can be part of the impact.
For 20 years, Peter Austin has served as McHenry County Administrator and as a dedicated member of the MCEDC Board of Directors, guiding growth, strengthening infrastructure, and championing collaboration across the region.
As he looks ahead to his retirement in January 2026, we honor his remarkable career and the lasting impact his leadership has made on our community.
Crystal Lake Bank & Trust supports McHenry County’s economic development by providing tailored financial solutions to local businesses, including loans and commercial banking services. As a true community bank, they reinvest local deposits to help grow the county’s economy from within.
Marshall Wolf Automation
For over 40 years, Marshall Wolf Automation has proudly been located in McHenry County. As an independent, women-owned industrial controls distributor, they deliver technical sales and support directly to local manufacturers while investing in our community’s future through local hiring, skills training, and partnerships like the McHenry County College ‘Education To Empowerment’ scholarship.
Heartland Realtor Organization
Heartland REALTOR® Organization supports McHenry County’s economic growth by empowering local REALTORS® with tools, education, and advocacy to drive real estate success. Their work promotes housing development, protects property rights, and strengthens the local economy.
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.