Illinois Sees Surge in Job Commitments as Global Companies Expand Investments (Chicago, IL) – Illinois is off to a strong economic start in 2026, with state officials reporting a wave of global companies choosing to expand and invest, bringing thousands of new jobs and billions in capital commitments.
In just the first quarter of the year, companies participating in Illinois’ Economic Development for a Growing Economy (EDGE) program have pledged nearly 4,000 new jobs and about $2.5 billion in investments. According to Gov. JB Pritzker’s office, that figure already surpasses total job commitments made through both the EDGE and Reimagining Energy and Vehicles (REV) programs in all of 2025.
State leaders say the early momentum reflects Illinois’ continued appeal as a business hub.
“The rest of the world is starting to capitalize on what we have long known to be true: Illinois is the best place to live, work, and raise a family,” Pritzker said, pointing to the state’s central location, infrastructure, and workforce as key advantages.
Manufacturing and innovation drive growth
Much of the recent activity has been concentrated in advanced manufacturing and innovation sectors.
DMG MORI announced a $40.5 million investment to expand its Illinois presence with a new research and development facility. The project will include a workforce training partnership with City Colleges of Chicago, aimed at connecting students to manufacturing careers.
Meanwhile, Hyundai Translead unveiled plans for a $450 million manufacturing operation in Will County that is expected to create nearly 2,500 jobs. The development will repurpose two dormant facilities, marking one of the largest recent job announcements in the state.
Life sciences sector continues expansion
Illinois is also seeing significant growth in life sciences and biopharmaceutical manufacturing.
CSL, a global biotherapeutics company, is investing $1.5 billion into its Kankakee campus. The expansion will retain more than 1,200 jobs and create an additional 300 positions.
AbbVie is also growing its footprint, committing $380 million to expand its North Chicago campus. The project is expected to add 300 jobs and support production of new treatments targeting neurological conditions and obesity.
Food industry and corporate hubs grow in Chicago
Chicago continues to attract major corporate investments, particularly in the food sector.
Mars Snacking is investing $100 million to expand its global headquarters in the city, creating 600 new jobs and establishing hubs in Fulton Market and River North. The company already employs more than 4,000 people statewide.
Savencia Cheese USA also announced an expansion of its facility in Lena, Illinois, adding a production line, 50 new jobs, and retaining 125 existing positions.
Film and television industry remains strong
Illinois’ film and television sector is also contributing to the state’s economic growth. In 2025, production spending reached a record $703 million, supporting an estimated 18,000 jobs and generating more than $400 million in wages.
Officials credit the state’s Film Production Tax Credit with helping attract major productions and talent, positioning Illinois as a top destination for the industry.
A broader trend of economic growth
State officials say the strong first quarter reflects a longer-term trend of companies choosing Illinois over competing states.
Illinois has ranked second in the nation for corporate expansions and relocations for four consecutive years and is currently ranked first in the Midwest for workforce development. CNBC’s “Best States for Business” ranking has also improved significantly, with Illinois climbing to 13th place—up 17 spots since 2019.
With billions already committed and thousands of jobs expected, state leaders say Illinois is poised to build on its economic momentum throughout the rest of 2026.
Illinois Sees Surge in Job Commitments as Global Companies Expand Investments
