The robots work by pulling hoes through the soil, thus disturbing the emergence of weed seeds. Photo credit: University of Illinois.
Illinois is a national powerhouse in the agribusiness industry, ranking #1 in the Midwest and #3 in the U.S. for generating $34.8 billion in GRP and providing over 179,000 jobs. With over 6,700 payrolled business locations, Illinois boasts the largest concentration of these businesses in the Midwest. This success stems from a strong foundation in traditional agriculture, a commitment to innovation, and a supportive business environment that fosters growth.
Innovation in Action: Combating Superweeds with Robotics
Illinois is dedicated to advancing agriculture through innovation, and robotic weeding is a prime example. A new study from the University of Illinois explores the adoption of robotic weeders to combat “superweeds” — those resistant to common herbicides. These small, lightweight robots offer an efficient, low-labor, and environmentally–friendly solution by mechanically disturbing weed seeds in the soil. Using artificial intelligence for automation and navigation, these robots represent the future of ag tech, a future Illinois is actively shaping.
The study focused on controlling waterhemp, a persistent threat to Midwestern crops, and investigated various weed management strategies. Regardless of the approach, adopting robotic weeders has positive long-term implications for corn and soybean growth, which are Illinois’ top crops. This focus on innovation is further evidenced by Illinois’ ranking as #1 in the Midwest for agriculture and ag tech startups, with over 400 dynamic companies driving the industry forward.
A Thriving Ecosystem for Agribusiness
Illinois’ thriving agribusiness industry provides fertile ground for innovations like robotic weeding to flourish. The state boasts the second-largest food processing cluster nationally, with a GRP of $12.9 billion, and ranks #1 in private food manufacturing R&D. Home to industry giants like ADM, John Deere, Conagra, McDonald’s, and Mondelez, Illinois fosters a collaborative environment where established companies and startups alike can thrive.
Why Illinois? A Prime Location for Agribusiness
Beyond its strong agricultural foundation, Illinois offers a compelling case for businesses in this space to invest and grow:
- Talent: Illinois boasts a highly skilled workforce, with 37% of Illinoisans holding a bachelor’s degree or higher. The state’s 242 higher education institutions, including top-ranked universities like the University of Illinois (which graduated 2,567 students in agriculture-related fields in 2023 alone), ensure a steady pipeline of talent for the agribusiness industry.
- Infrastructure: Illinois’ central location and world-class infrastructure provide unparalleled access to markets. With the third-largest interstate highway network in the U.S., the most connected airport in the country (O’Hare), and a robust rail and port system, next generation agriculture, ag tech, and food processing businesses can efficiently transport goods across the nation and the globe.
- Business Environment: Illinois is a magnet for businesses, ranking #2 in the nation for new and expanding companies. A supportive business climate, with initiatives fostering innovation and entrepreneurship, makes Illinois the ideal location for agricultural businesses to grow and prosper. This is supported by over $1.9 billion in venture capital investment in 2023, the highest in the Midwest.
- Quality of Life: Beyond business, Illinois offers an unmatched quality of life, a low cost of living, vibrant cities like Chicago (ranked “Best Big City” for eight consecutive years by Condé Nast), and access to top-notch healthcare and education — all of which attracts and retains top talent in the agribusiness industry.
Illinois: Leading the Future of Agriculture
Illinois is not just a leader in traditional agriculture; it’s shaping the future of the industry through innovation, technology, and a commitment to sustainability. With a supportive business environment, world-class infrastructure, and a highly skilled workforce, Illinois is the ideal destination for your business to thrive.
Will you explore the opportunities that await in Illinois — where you’ll find fertile ground for agribusiness innovation and growth? Learn more about how your business can thrive here by contacting us today.
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