A proven partnership

WHY ILLINOIS

Located in the heart of the U.S., Illinois is a unique global business destination that has all of the attributes companies need to succeed. The state offers unmatched talent throughout a diverse array of industries, along with world-class infrastructure that allows companies to move their people and products quickly and efficiently via air, rail, road and water.

ABOUT INTERSECT ILLINOIS

Intersect Illinois is the only statewide economic development organization focused on bringing new businesses, jobs, and investment to Illinois. We help companies navigate the site selection process by providing data, location assistance, connections and more.

Cette page est également disponible en:
Intersect Illinois

Growing Canadian Business in Illinois

The opportunities for Canadian businesses to expand in the U.S. are vast and promising, but where should Canadian companies looking to grow start?

With a $1 trillion economy (18th in the world), world-class infrastructure, a diverse and skilled workforce, a world-class higher education system, and forward-thinking policies to set businesses up for long-term success, Illinois has all the right elements to help Canadian businesses grow.

For businesses looking to expand, Intersect Illinois provides a dedicated support team to help with everything from choosing the right site to connecting companies with the needed resources. In an era when speed matters, our tools, such as a database of vetted sites, enable us to expedite the process and help companies in industries from manufacturing, to IT, to transportation and logistics, to get up and running quickly.

Watch this video to see why Illinois is your clear choice.

Why Illinois for Canadian Businesses

The North American Transportation Hub

Illinois is a prime destination for Canadian businesses, offering unparalleled access to global markets. A pivotal hub for North American transportation, Illinois is the only state where all of the largest U.S. railroads converge in two places, including routes from Canadian National and Canadian Pacific Kansas City.

In addition to its robust railway infrastructure, Illinois prides itself on having the country's third-largest interstate highway network, as well as being home to the world's third-largest inland port. This combination ensures that both goods and people can flow seamlessly around the world, further cementing the state's role as a key player in global logistics and transportation.

World-Class Talent

Illinois boasts a dynamic and diverse workforce, well-equipped to tackle the challenges of tomorrow. The state's labour force comprises 6.5 million people. Additionally, its nearly 250 higher education establishments are key contributors to one of its most significant strengths: a substantial and highly skilled talent pool.

The right location is critical to attracting the right talent that will enable your business to grow and thrive. Illinois has a strong talent pipeline and educational ecosystem, making it an ideal location for world-class talent.

#6

In total U.S. labour force

New business meeting with a group of entrepreneurs on a conference table in a modern office loft

244

universities and colleges
including top two business schools in the country

Young African American black woman and caucasian man warehouse worker checks stock and check merchandise package using barcode scanner in factory warehouse. Logistic industry business concept.

Central Location

Served by world-class infrastructure

Canadian flag waving on the wind

6.5M

Workers

Chicago Skyline

552

Companies expanded to Illinois last year

World-Class Infrastructure

Canadian companies making location decisions increasingly factor in livability and quality of life to ensure they can attract and retain talent. Illinois offers a welcoming and inclusive environment where companies and people thrive. Illinois boasts a political landscape similar to Canada and ranks among the top states to raise a family based on factors including jobs, affordability, quality of education, recreation, and more.

Industries

Illinois’ diverse industries, thriving economy and collaborative spirit make it ripe for Canadian business growth, no matter the size or sector. The state is a global leader in industries including advanced manufacturing, transportation and information technology with a proven history of turnkey solutions for Canadian enterprise looking to expand. Discover how Illinois can help your business grow today.

Resources for Canadian Businesses

Fact Sheet

Get the facts on why Illinois is the perfect partner for Canadian business.

Talent Guide

The most critical part of any business is its people. Discover 5 key elements that Canadian companies should consider when looking for a location that will enable talent hiring and expansion.

Expansion Guide

Unveil the comprehensive roadmap to ensuring a smooth and successful expansion, highlighting critical planning steps, evaluating trade-offs, and emphasizing the importance of local partnerships.

Dedicated Support to Help You

Let's get you started

Intersect Illinois is the only statewide economic development organization dedicated to bringing new businesses, jobs, and investment to Illinois. We help companies navigate the site selection process by providing data, location assistance, connections and more.

Our dedicated teams are here to help Canadian enterprises get started on their expansion journey today.