In the news
CED Hosts Eye Opener Breakfast
The successes and growth of Will County over the past year
For the first time since 2019 board members, investors, partners and supporters of the Will County Center for Economic Development came together to network and hear about the successes and growth of Will County over the past year.
The CED’s Board Chair, Ruth Colby, enthusiastically welcomed the 200 in attendance emphasizing the excitement in the room to gather again in person.
Additionally, Ruth applauded the CED Board of Directors, a group of incredible community leaders who provide their time, guidance, and leadership to help make the CED and Will County the best it can be. She went on to extend gratitude to all CED Investors in attendance, who help drive investment and opportunity to Will County every day.
Will County Executive, Jennifer Bertino-Tarrant spoke about the hard work of the CED and Board in attracting new business. She said she has been to a lot of ribbon cuttings throughout the county lately!

Doug Pryor speaking at the 2022 Eye Opener Breakfast
Doug Pryor, President & CEO was the featured speaker and shared some eye opening successes and growth of Will County over the past year, which included good news about our population gains, low unemployment and single-family housing leadership. Other Will County facts and updates:
- Leading the state in job creation – 47,802 since 2011
- Retail occupancy at an all-time high – 96%
- $11.5 billion in retail sales – 33% increase from previous high
- #1 in Illinois in industrial development
- Office occupancy – 94%
- Home prices hit new record in 2022 – $306,000
- Update on major transportation projects
- CED Programs and Events
A look ahead……
Our Sincere Thanks to
Presenting Sponsor
First Midwest Bank
And Event sponsors
Cadence Premier Logistics
Heartland Bank & Trust
More In The News

Eye Opener Breakfast Details Will County Successes & More!
Excited to see more than 240 guests last month at this annual midyear event. CED Chair Ruth Colby welcomed guests representing investors, non-investors, elected officials, municipal staff, community organizations, and more to this midyear opportunity to gather and hear about successes and growth of Will County over the past year.

CED Announces Recognition of 2023 Economic Development Week
The Will County Center for Economic Development marks the week of May 8 to May 12, 2023, as Economic Development Week 2023. During this week, communities across North America will celebrate and recognize the contributions made by professional economic developers to create more economically vibrant and livable communities.

CED President & CEO Re-Appointed to Illinois Enterprise Zone Board
Doug Pryor was originally appointed to serve on the Board in September 2021 and was recently re-appointed to serve through February 2025. Each member of the board appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Senate shall have at least 5 years of experience in business, economic development, or site location.