Cronus Chemicals to Build $2 Billion Fertilizer Plant in Tuscola, Creating 130 Jobs (Decatur, IL) – Gov. JB Pritzker announced Tuesday a $2 billion investment from Cronus Chemicals LLC to construct a new fertilizer production facility in Tuscola, a project expected to create 130 full-time jobs and strengthen Illinois’ role in agriculture and manufacturing.
The announcement, made at the 2025 Farm Progress Show, marks one of the largest single private investments in Central Illinois in recent years. Supported by the state’s Economic Development for a Growing Economy (EDGE) program, the facility will produce 950,000 short tons of ammonia annually and incorporate carbon capture technology designed to cut emissions by up to 90 percent.
“Illinois is building the infrastructure to power an entirely new bioeconomy by attracting major industry players to innovate right here in our state,” Pritzker said. “Cronus Chemicals’ state-of-the-art facility in Tuscola will create more than 130 full-time jobs, serve as an anchor for the agricultural industry of tomorrow, and spur investment across the Illinois economy.”
Illinois consumes more nitrogen fertilizer than any other state, and Cronus’ new plant will reduce dependence on imported products while supplying Midwestern farmers with locally produced fertilizer. The project is expected to provide an economic jolt to Douglas County and surrounding communities during both construction and operations.
“This transformative investment will energize our local economy and return ammonia production to the area after it departed for several decades,” said Brian Moody, executive director of the Douglas County Economic Development Corporation.
Tuscola Mayor Daniel J. Kleiss welcomed the project as a major milestone for his community. “We are grateful to Cronus for their persistence to make this project happen and excited for the opportunity it will create for our city and the surrounding region,” he said.
Cronus received an EDGE tax credit as part of the state’s incentive package, committing to the $2 billion investment and 130 new jobs. In 2024, companies in the EDGE program pledged more than $650 million in investments statewide.
“This investment will not only support construction of Cronus’ world-class facility, but also create good-paying jobs in Central Illinois,” said Kristin Richards, director of the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity.
Industry officials noted the project’s importance in linking agriculture with advanced manufacturing. “This new state-of-the-art ammonia fertilizer plant will produce a critical agricultural input for our farmers using proven carbon capture technology to reduce emissions. This is a big win for Illinois,” said Mark Denzler, president and CEO of the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association.
Cronus Chemicals chairman Melih Keyman said the facility represents a “significant leap forward” for agriculture and credited state leaders for their support.
Illinois’ agricultural sector, which produces more than $26 billion in goods annually, ranks among the nation’s leaders in corn, soybeans, hogs, and specialty crops. State officials say the Cronus project reinforces that role while adding to Illinois’ global competitiveness in chemical and industrial exports.
Cronus Chemicals to Build $2 Billion Fertilizer Plant in Tuscola, Creating 130 Jobs
