Fostering a collaborative, regional
approach to
economic development that leads to
growth and prosperity
About CRGC
CRGC (Chicago Regional Growth Corporation) is the regional economic development organization that drives collaboration among public and private partners in order to generate inclusive growth and prosperity across northeastern Illinois. Through CRGC’s leadership, the region will speak and act with one voice.
CRGC is comprised of Cook, DuPage, Kane, Kendall, Lake, McHenry and Will Counties and the City of Chicago. The region is one of the world’s top ten most competitive economies, at the center of global trade routes with major assets in transportation infrastructure, information technology, manufacturing and more.
Cooperation, inclusion and diversity are core values of CRGC. Partnerships are vital to its success. CRGC is a bridge from local to state and federal resources and integral to prioritizing, aligning and coordinating economic development activities to increase the region’s competitiveness.
Regions grow most effectively when they are coordinated, equitable and inclusive. With one voice and a collective approach to inclusive economic development, CRGC will build a stronger and more prosperous region.
History of Working Together
In 2013, leaders from northeastern Illinois convened a working group to identify opportunities for collaboration. Since then, the group has developed projects leading to growth, investment and the creation of quality jobs.
CRGC provides the infrastructure for the group’s ongoing collaboration, and will increase the capacity of local economic development organizations to drive inclusive growth.
Our Role
Enhancing the regional ecosystem
Fill gaps in regional development initiatives
Provide programs and resources, such as export and FDI assistance for businesses, to increase local capacity, especially in economically distressed areas
Grow regionally strong industry clusters
Support key industries, such as metals and manufacturing, that are important to the regional economy
Connect assets and build stronger regional networks
Create networks of assets, such as the region's freight transportation system, in order to leverage the region's full potential
Build a strong regional identity
Develop a unified voice to promote the region's diverse assets, economic strengths and opportunities for investment
News
Business and Government Leaders Launch Chicago Regional Growth Corporation
Press Release - January 18, 2018
Unprecedented new organization brings together leaders from seven counties, the City of Chicago and the business community to advance economic development in northeastern Illinois... READ MORE (PDF)
Here's a smarter way to generate economic growth in metro Chicago
Crain's Chicago Business - December 13, 2017
Fragmented economic development efforts weaken metropolitan Chicago in the worldwide competition for jobs and investment.... READ MORE
New nonprofit aims to promote area economy
Crain's Chicago Business - December 7, 2017
The city has World Business Chicago, the state has Intersect Illinois, and now the metropolitan region is trying for a new public-private partnership to promote economic development... READ MORE
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