In Illinois, we are doing exactly that—bringing together the intellects, innovators, trailblazers and policymakers to affect extraordinary change. Real, global change. You know the old saying, "If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together." In Illinois, we've set our sights on doing both, because the stakes have never been higher. And we invite you to join us. You just might be the difference between the world as it is—and the place it can become. Let’s go beyond the expected. #BeyondTomorrow

The global semiconductor shortage, exacerbated by COVID-19 disruptions, offers a unique chance to revitalize American tech manufacturing and push the boundaries of quantum computing beyond traditional silicon-based semiconductors. Illinois stands as a frontrunner in this emerging field, hosting four of the ten National Quantum Initiative centers and leading the Chicago Quantum Exchange, the largest university-led quantum research collective. With the industry expected to reach $106 billion by 2040, securing EDA Tech Hub funding could solidify Illinois as a global leader in quantum information science and engineering.

As we move away from petroleum and animal-based products, synthetic biology and precision fermentation are poised to revolutionize sustainable manufacturing. With the precision fermentation market expected to hit $11.8 billion by 2028 and create a million jobs by 2030, the U.S. has a significant opportunity for resource optimization and increased global competitiveness. Illinois, a hub for global bioprocessing giants, is particularly well-suited for this expansion with a robust infrastructure, logistical advantages and fertile ground for AgTech innovation.

As the world pivots towards electrification and away from fossil fuels, Illinois is rapidly advancing its infrastructure and focusing on decarbonizing commercial transportation, a sector responsible for 29% of last year's CO2 emissions. Significant state investments including $100M aimed at diesel emissions reduction and $360M for building an extensive charging infrastructure will help meet the goal of one million electric vehicles by 2030. Illinois offers competitive incentives, such as the Invest in Illinois Fund and $400M in grants to attract companies in EV and clean energy sectors, along with the Reimagining Energy and Vehicles (REV) Program which provides substantial income tax relief for job creation. 

Illinois is uniquely positioned to play an outsized role in training and building the diverse workforce required for the shifting landscapes in science, technology and climate. Our focus isn't just on economic development—but creating a level playing field where everyone has access to high-paying jobs and promising career paths. Legislative efforts like the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act demonstrate the state’s dedication to training Illinoisans who confront economic and environmental hurdles to build a skilled workforce for changing industry landscapes. We believe that we will get further, faster when we make room at the table for everyone.

Innovate Illinois is a public-private coalition that was formed to drive the coordinated and robust effort in securing unprecedented levels of federal funding made available by landmark legislation including the Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill, the CHIPS and Science Act and the Inflation Reduction Act. Securing more federal funding for key technologies will propel the state to attract more companies and investors to grow Illinois’ vibrant tech ecosystem. 

Governor JB Pritzker 

Jennifer Scanlon

Robert J. Jones

Vice Chair: President and CEO of UL Solutions

Vice Chair: Chancellor, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Chair

Higher Education

• Illinois Council of Community College Presidents
• University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
• University of Chicago
• Northwestern University
• University of Illinois System
• Chicago State University
• City Colleges of Chicago
• University of Illinois Chicago
• Illinois Tech
• Illinois State University
• Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville
• Northern Illinois University

Government

• Governor’s Office
• Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity
• Office of Senator Durbin
• Office of Senator Duckworth
• World Business Chicago
• Intersect Illinois

Business

• Civic Committee
• TCCI Manufacturing
• Illinois Manufacturers’ Association
• Illinois/Chicagoland Chamber
• Other Chicago and Downstate Business CEO’s

Labor

• American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO) 

Key Ecosystem Organizations

• P33
• Chicago Quantum Exchange
• Discovery Partners Institute
• Illinois Innovation Network
• Illinois Science and Technology Coalition
• MxD

If you're interested in partnering, we're continuing to grow.

Contact us through the form below. 

National Lab

• Argonne National Laboratory
• Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory