Illinois earns the #13 overall spot in CNBC’s “Top States for Business,” a testament to the state’s building progress.
Illinois earned its highest overall ranking in CNBC’s “Top States for Business,” a reflection of the state’s tremendous improvements to its business climate. Notably, Illinois has jumped 26 spots since CNBC started publishing its rankings in 2007, and 17 spots since 2019.
“Illinois is taking clear and effective steps to improve its business prowess, as reflected in the marked jump in CNBC’s overall rankings of top states for business,” said Intersect Illinois President and CEO Christy George. “From expanding its arsenal of development-ready sites to prioritizing tech and growth-forward industries, Illinois is signaling to companies all over the world that it is open for business like never before.”
Additionally, the state improved in key categories, such as education (No. 3, up one spot YoY), and placed in the top 10 for infrastructure (No. 8), technology and innovation (No. 6), and access to capital (No. 5).
Illinois has made major improvements to its business attraction toolbox, including enhancing its suite of incentives for growing companies and allocating a historic $500 million investment in site readiness as part of the new state budget.
“Since taking office, I have been on a mission to attract more businesses to Illinois, grow our economy, and give us a competitive edge for years to come. The latest rankings from today are a testament to the progress we have made here in Illinois and a clear sign that our thoughtful strategy and fiscal responsibility is paying off,” said Gov. Pritzker. “From rebuilding our infrastructure, strengthening our workforce, and investing in education from cradle to career, we have laid the foundation for sustained growth and prosperity. This progress is a clear indication of what Illinois is capable of.”
CNBC’s rankings build on a series of new investments and recent accolades awarded to Illinois, further underscoring the state’s robust economic activity, skilled workforce, world-class infrastructure, and competitive incentives.
- Innovative battery manufacturer Pure Lithium Corporation will relocate its operations from Boston to Chicago. Attracted by Gov. Pritzker, DCEO, and Intersect Illinois, and supported by REV Illinois, the company plans to invest $46 million and create 50 new jobs.
- Earlier this month, Site Selection Magazine named Cook County (#5) and Lake County (#10) among the Top 10 Best Counties in America for economic development.
- Alongside making the top 10 counties list, Illinois moved up one spot on the magazine’s sustainability rankings to #6 this year.
- Site Selection placed Illinois No. 2 for corporate expansion and relocation projects in its latest ranking.
- Illinois also secured an Area Development Silver Shovel award — its second Silver Shovel in as many years— in recognition of standout investments in the technology, digital and quantum industries.
“As the years go on, Illinois continues to solidify its reputation as a global economic powerhouse under the leadership of Governor Pritzker,” said DCEO Director Kristin Richards. “CNBC’s rankings are further evidence that business is booming in Illinois, and DCEO is committed to supporting the state’s world-class workforce while bolstering local economies in every corner of Illinois.”
Learn more about how Illinois has bolstered its business climate in Gov. Pritzker’s release.
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