Greater Peoria Economic Development Council

🗓 Mark your calendars for August 23-24! Join the Illinois Department of Transportation, the City of Peoria Illinois - Government, and the Peoria Chiefs for a weekend of construction-themed fun! 🚧⚾
This event is perfect for families and baseball fans alike. Learn about road safety, enjoy the game, and stand a chance to win a free suite!

Don’t miss out—visit https://idot.click/9ks for more details. See you there!

🌟 Calling all Illinois Innovators! 🌟

The Falling Walls Lab is coming to Illinois! This pitch competition offers a unique opportunity for early-career innovators to shine. With the deadline approaching on August 28th, now is the time to apply. On September 12th, participants will have 3 minutes to pitch their breakthrough ideas at Distillery Labs.

The rewards are truly incredible. Thanks to Central Illinois Angels, the competition now includes an additional $1,000 in prize money! But that’s not all—the winner will also receive an all-expenses-paid trip to Berlin to compete in the global Falling Walls Lab finale during Berlin Science Week.

This competition, led by the Illinois Innovation Network and supported by Caterpillar is more than just a chance to win prizes; it’s an opportunity to connect with like-minded innovators, gain invaluable experiences, and advance your ideas.

Don’t let this chance slip by—apply today, show up, and see where your innovation can take you! 🚀

Apply here: https://ow.ly/mu3B50SZpfN

🌟 Empowering women entrepreneurs in Peoria! Distillery Labs is expanding with a new Women's Business Development Center, bringing crucial resources and support to female business owners in our community. This is a fantastic step forward in fostering innovation and growth downtown.

Learn more about this exciting addition! 👇 https://ow.ly/Fp9I50SXPtE

🚰 Peoria Heights is taking a big step toward safer, cleaner water! Thanks to federal funding, over a third of the $2.4M project to replace aging pipes along Route 29 is covered. This investment not only modernizes infrastructure but also protects public health.

Learn more about how this will impact our community 👇 https://ow.ly/bkEs50SXPhW

This afternoon, the team got our Irish fix while celebrating the birthdays of Dorsey Hill and Sara Kupperschmid at Kelleher's Irish Pub and Eatery!! Happy Birthday, Dorsey and Sara!! Great lunch choice!!

The Internet has woven its way into our lives and businesses. Better Internet connectivity can change lives. We need to understand how important the Internet is to you personally.

Please take our survey and tell us what you need to improve Internet connectivity: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/3LQS8YY

With a recent shift in work and school toward the internet, reliable access is vital for success nowadays. While some people don’t think twice about their everyday internet access, some struggle daily for dependable access due to broadband gaps in Tazewell counties. The survey below is meant to be the great equalizer in our community, as the internet should not be a privilege but a necessity for all.

Please take the survey and share it with friends and family. https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/3LQS8YY

📢 Check out our weekend update! 🌟 Highlights include visits from the Mexican and Canadian consulates, updated commute data showing the benefits of living in Peoria, the Community Health Needs Assessment Survey launch, and the upcoming Pearl Technology Showcase.

Read more here: https://ow.ly/clsT50SUEC6

Much like interstate highways brought opportunities for economic development in the last century, enhanced fiber broadband can attract economic development today. However, we need to understand what services we have to develop a broadband master plan to get better and more affordable broadband throughout the county.

Please take our survey —your input is critical: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/3LQS8YY

Listen to the latest episode of The Greg and Dan Show featuring our CEO, Chris Setti, discussing the new Distillery Labs on SW Adams. This initiative is set to transform our community into a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship, fostering economic growth and creating new opportunities for local businesses and startups. 🚀📈✨

Tune in to learn more about how Distillery Labs will shape the future of Peoria.

Listen here: https://ow.ly/V2n350SRkG4

📢 Check out our weekend update! 🌟 Highlights include the ribbon cutting at Distillery Labs, June job market improvements, the Tazewell County Broadband study, and our updated list of major employers in the region.

Read more here: https://ow.ly/ZXsC50SQ3fX

Big news for Peoria! 📣 Distillery Labs has officially opened its doors, and WMBD has the full scoop. This isn’t just another ribbon-cutting; it’s the dawn of a new era for innovation and business development in our community.

Peoria Mayor Rita Ali calls it a “magical place” where new ideas and businesses will flourish. From a podcast studio to a kitchen for aspiring chefs, Distillery Labs is packed with resources to support start-ups and small businesses.

Join us in celebrating this monumental addition to Peoria’s economic landscape! 🌟

🔗 Dive into the details: https://ow.ly/jrsr50SOnPw

“Catch our CEO Chris Setti on The Greg and Dan Show recapping the visit of the Brazilian delegates. 🎙️ Chris discusses the key takeaways from the ‘speed dating’ event at Distillery Labs, the warm welcome at the Peoria Riverfront Museum, and the exciting potential collaborations emerging from these interactions. Tune in to hear about the importance of international partnerships and the innovative spirit driving these connections.

Listen here: https://ow.ly/wVtl50SOom8

Update on Brazilian Delegates - Greg & Dan Show Interviews This morning, Greg and Dan gave Chris Setti from Greater Peoria Economic Development Council a call. For this week, Chris gave an update on his interview from last week bringing in 33 Brazilian delegates from BTEC. Chris told us about the warm welcome that they received from the Greater Peoria area....

🌍 This week’s weekend update is a great recap of the Brazilian delegation’s visit! The 33-member group explored Greater Peoria’s agriculture, connected with local startups, and enjoyed a special reception at the Peoria Riverfront Museum. This visit strengthened international partnerships and highlighted our region’s economic opportunities.

Discover more: https://ow.ly/E4HP50SL1RW

Don’t miss the latest episode of The Greg and Dan Show featuring our CEO, Chris Setti, and special guest, Claudio Goldbach of BTEC (Brazilian Tech Connections)! 🎙️ In this 10-minute conversation, they discuss Claudio’s innovative startup and the exciting visit of the Brazil Delegation. With 33 delegates from diverse industries and backgrounds, this visit is all about fostering international collaboration and driving innovation.

Tune in to hear their insights and learn more about the potential partnerships that can emerge from these connections.

Listen here: https://ow.ly/lL0Q50SJvbG

Greater Peoria EDC Welcomes Brazilian Delegation Featuring Startup BTEC - Greg & Dan Show Interviews The Greg and Dan Show welcomes Chris Setti of the Greater Peoria Economic Development Council and special guest Claudio Goldbach of BTEC (Brazilian Tech Connections) for a conversation on his up-and-coming startup. The GPEDC is hosting a Brazil Delegation of 33 individuals from a variety of industri...

Exciting news for the Greater Peoria region! Distillery Labs, a 30,000 sq ft regional innovation hub, will open on July 31 in Downtown Peoria. Located in the former ICC building, it will support and connect entrepreneurs with resources like a commercial kitchen, podcast studios, and a 3D printer. This initiative will enhance the local economy by nurturing startups and providing essential business services, promoting the region's quality of life and economic growth.

The GPEDC is a proud supporter of Distillery Labs, and we look forward to seeing some of you on Tuesday for the ribbon cutting!

🌟🏢 Read more: https://ow.ly/BZBY50SJupG

Downtown Peoria’s new business innovation hub to open soon Executive Director Doug Cruitt said lease prices range from $175 to $1,400 per month.

Earlier today, Distillery Labs hosted an engaging ‘speed dating’ event for the Brazilian Techs Connection delegation. Making this Distillery Labs' first event in the new location! 🌟 Delegates had the opportunity to spend 10 minutes each with local founders and advisors from Greater Peoria, exploring potential synergies and collaborations. This event brought together innovative startups like Lux Blox, Shothawk, Swytchbox, Drizzl, Bear Bites, and The Farm Sitter, along with local advisors, policymakers, and business representatives.

Events like these are crucial as they foster direct interactions, enable knowledge exchange, and pave the way for future collaborations that can lead to significant economic growth and innovation. Following the welcome reception at the Peoria Riverfront Museum, this ‘speed dating’ session further exemplifies our commitment to creating a vibrant, interconnected business community.

Last night, we officially welcomed the Brazilian Techs Connection delegation at the Peoria Riverfront Museum.🌟 This event was about more than just introductions—it was about creating meaningful connections that yield real results. CEO of DigiFarmz, Alex Chequym, a native of Brazil who moved to America two years ago, shared his inspiring journey from a visiting delegate to a permanent resident and successful CEO. He hopes to see new visitors have similar success stories. The evening was a success with industry leaders, Peoria Mayor Rita Ali, elected officials, policymakers, and 33 Brazilian business and academic leaders in attendance!

We’re excited about the opportunities this visit brings!

Read WMBD's coverage of the event here: https://ow.ly/2U8850SIAGS

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We’re excited to host 33 Brazilian leaders from the Brazilian Techs Connection (BTEC) at Stewart Family Farms in Morton today! 🌾✨ These innovators from the Mato Grosso region, including startups, established companies, industry groups, and academics, are exploring Greater Peoria’s agricultural and agtech ecosystem. They gained insights from the Illinois Farm Bureau, GROWMARK, Inc., Illinois Corn Growers Association, Pekin Future Farmers of America, and the Illinois Soybean Association presentations. After a tour of the National Center for Agricultural Utilization Research lab in Peoria, we’ll welcome them tonight at the Peoria Riverfront Museum. BTEC, a consortium of Brazil’s top tech minds, is here for a three-day visit to share best practices and explore trade opportunities. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue this exciting exchange!

📢 Check out our weekend update! 🌟 Highlights include the Mason County Broadband Feasibility Study presentation, insights from the ICC Ag Employer Summit, the upcoming “Moving Forward with Freight Forwarders” seminar, and a reception for the Brazilian Techs Connection delegation. Plus, don’t miss our upcoming events like the Distillery Labs Ribbon Cutting and Lunch with Consulates.

Read more here: https://ow.ly/7lma50SG4pq

Aqua-Tots Swim School is bringing its world-renowned programs to the greater Peoria area! Opening in August at 7713 Orange Prairie Road, this 7,500 sq ft facility will offer year-round indoor swim lessons for children. With a focus on safety and skill development, Aqua-Tots enhances the quality of life and provides essential childcare services, contributing to economic growth. Safe, confident swimmers mean peace of mind for parents and a thriving community. 🌊🏊‍♂️

Learn more: https://ow.ly/ey9b50SGnp8

📊 We are excited to share our Q2 2024 Report, showcasing the dynamic strides we’ve made in economic growth, agricultural innovation, and workforce development. This quarter, we hosted the AgTech Connect event and the Economic Development Forum with Jay Garner, both pivotal in advancing our regional goals.

Our report also covers the Illinois Defense Manufacturing Consortium meeting, emphasizing the importance of a robust defense manufacturing ecosystem.

Get involved in CareerSpark 2024, our flagship event that inspires nearly 4,000 eighth graders by showcasing career opportunities in various industries. Your participation is vital to making this event a success.

🚀 Read more and join us in driving regional prosperity: https://ow.ly/WTja50SEzsb

🎉 Celebrating a special day with our incredible team! Today, we gathered for a delightful lunch at Obed and Isaac's Microbrewery & Eatery to celebrate Kirsten Montgomery’s birthday. 🥳

Join us in wishing her a fantastic year ahead filled with success and happiness! 🎂🎈

📢 Check out our weekend update! 🌟 Highlights include the visit from the Brazilian delegation, advancements in quantum workforce development, our 2nd quarter report, and upcoming events like the Distillery Labs Ribbon Cutting, Lunch with Consulates, and Gen. Petraeus’ talk.

Read more here: https://ow.ly/8UeC50SAJIr

GPEDC Weekend Update- July 12, 2024 - Greater Peoria EDC Weekly updates from the Greater Peoria area and the Greater Peoria Economic Development Council. Weekend update

Great strides are being made in workforce development in the Peoria region, thanks to efforts by the Regional Workforce Alliance (RWA) and Illinois Central College. By focusing on “upskilling” unemployed and under-employed adults and offering workforce exposure to high school students, we’re closing qualification gaps and boosting the local economy. With new programs in high-demand fields and partnerships across sectors, the future looks promising for job seekers and employers alike.

🌟💼 Read more: https://ow.ly/hQnb50Sz15J



Morton Industries LLC Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce

Peoria region seeing progress in workforce development, as push to close qualification gaps continues In its sixth year of existence, the Regional Workforce Alliance (RWA) is working to develop and employ strategies to “upskill” unemployed and under-employed adults while offering workforce exposure to high school students.

Illinois Central College is stepping up to meet the demands of the future with a new AI certificate program. This one-year course will train students in crucial AI skills like machine learning, neural networks, data mining, and Python. As AI continues to revolutionize various sectors, ICC’s initiative ensures our community stays ahead. This program not only benefits students but also strengthens our local economy by preparing a highly skilled workforce. 🌟🤖

Read more about this exciting addition: https://ow.ly/V9Qk50Sz0Gx

Illinois Central College adding new AI certificate program A new certificate program at Illinois Central College prepares students to enter the growing field of artificial intelligence.

A new phase of fundraising is underway for the Community Wellness Center & YMCA in rural Peoria, Fulton, and Knox counties. This facility will offer a pool, track, workout equipment, community room, physical therapy, and cardiac rehab from Graham Medical Group. Expected to bring over $60 million in economic impact, the center will benefit towns like Elmwood, Farmington, and Brimfield.

Quality of life and Place is vital to a community's economic growth: healthy citizens = a healthy and vibrant workforce.

🌟🏥 Read more: https://ow.ly/PWqj50Sz06F

Fundraising for rural Community Wellness Center enters new phase A fundraising campaign for a new community wellness center serving rural Peoria, Fulton, and Knox counties is well underway. Leaders believe it could be a game-changer for the region.

Exciting news for Greater Peoria! The state announced over $25 million in federal funding to enhance mass transit in Peoria and Rock Island County. CityLink Peoria will receive about $14 million to expand and improve its fleet with battery-electric buses, promoting cleaner and more reliable transportation. This initiative will reduce emissions and support sustainable communities. GPEDC fully supports and celebrates this investment in Illinois’ infrastructure! 🌿

🚌 Read more: https://ow.ly/L66u50SyZOl

$25.4M in federal funding announced to expand Peoria, Rock Island mass transit PEORIA, Ill. (WMBD) — Illinois politicians announced on Tuesday a multi-million-dollar investment into mass transit that could change the way some riders get around their communities. Accordi…

🌟 Peoria has done it again! Livability recognized it as one of the Top 100 Best Places to Live in America! We already know just how special our city is, but it is always nice to get this external recognition. 🏡✨ This honor is a testament to the dedication of our entire community—from elected officials and educational institutions to civic organizations and all our amazing residents. Your hard work makes Peoria a fantastic place to live.

While we celebrate this achievement, we know there’s always room for improvement. Let’s continue working together to make Peoria the best place to live in the world. 🌎

What do you love most about living in Peoria? Share your thoughts in the comments!

Discover why Peoria keeps earning this recognition: https://bit.ly/3WdeEHO

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