PROGRAMS & EVENTS

The Will County CED offers numerous opportunities for networking and meaningful conversations and collaboration throughout the year.

We look forward to seeing our partners, stakeholders, local and state government officials, and CED Investors at both our in-person and virtual programs and events.

View our events listed below and consider joining us soon!

Annual Report to Investors

December 1, 2023
Bolingbrook Golf Course
REGISTRATIONIS NOW CLOSED

Thank you for your interest in our Annual Report to Investors. The registration portal is now closed. We do accept walk ins on a first come, first served basis with credit card or check payment.

For more information call 815-723-1800 or email Kristin.Erickson@willcountyced.com

Doors Open 7am – Breakfast 7:30am – Program 8am-9:20am

This special morning showcases our investors and their commitment to the work and mission of the CED. We will hear about companies investing and reinvesting in Will County, infrastructure projects, and Will County’s economic strength. Enjoy breakfast, networking, and a look at 2023’s biggest economic wins. We will find out if Will County is again leading the state in population gains and job creation!

PRESENTING SPONSOR

Governors state university logo
Annual Report event sponsors
CED Annual report save the date

Economic Reports

These virtual one-hour deep dives into a specific industry are offered twice yearly.

Expect to hear from industry experts speaking on national and local topics and trends relevant to Will County businesses and residents.

Check back for subject focus and registration information.

CED Economic Report: Water and Its Impact on Development – 4/5/2023
View video

Empower Your Workforce
Shaping the Workforce of Tomorrow in Will County Workshop

Wednesday, October 25th

The Will County Center for Economic Development has aligned with IMEC (Illinois Manufacturing Excellence Center) and Joliet Junior College to present a series of workshops aimed at supporting Will County manufacturers looking to grow, plan, improve and lead.

The workshops include networking and panel discussions. Our expert panelists represent the many industries representative of Will County and they are anxious to share insight, strategies, and best practices.

Our October 25th workshop begins with networking at 7:30am. Opening remarks and introductions begin promptly at 8:00am. We hope you will consider joining us!

Elected Officials Training (Incentives) Group Photo
Economic Development Training for Elected Officials – Boot Camp

Economic Development Training for Elected Officials – Boot Camp

Summer 2024

This popular training is offered to all Will County elected officials and outlines 10 things elected officials need to know to create a successful community economic development program. Attendees will participate in a community SWOT exercise, and we will hear from our partners from the State of Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity regarding tools and programs available to communities and businesses to drive economic growth. Our utility partners will provide guidance on utilizing available economic development programs and energy experts to accelerate development decisions and attract business investment.

Economic Development Training for Elected Officials – Incentives

Spring 2024

This robust program delivers with economic development partners sharing program information and benefits of TIF’s, Enterprise Zones, Community Grants, Tax Abatements and more.  Nicor and ComEd will provide important details with regards to engaging their expertise early on potential projects and the important information needed to determine viability, timelines, and costs.  The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity will bring the latest updates on programs available such as updates to EDGE, Advantage Illinois, and REV and what might be on the horizon for growing communities and business here in Will County.

Elected Officials Training (Incentives) Group Photo

Brokers Breakfasts

Spring 2024

Bringing together the industrial broker community and our Will County community development partners on a regular basis creates familiarity and establishes important partnerships. Featured experts share research and insight on the Chicago Regional Industrial Markets and submarkets along with a closer look at Will County’s strengths in the region. Additionally, our guests discuss implications of current and upcoming global, national, and local events.

Eye Opener Breakfast

June 2024

This midyear look at the state of the Will County economy including an update on major developments, initiatives, and important economic indicators is not to be missed! We will be welcomed by the CED’s Board Chair and Will County Executive, Jennifer Bertino-Tarrant, and CED’s President & CEO, Doug Pryor, will share the successes and growth of Will County over the past year and offer insights as to what’s ahead for the region – from infrastructure improvements to industries poised for growth. CED Investors, local business leaders, elected officials, and those considering doing business in Will County should not miss this event.

Note: Dates are subject to change.

2023 CALENDAR OF EVENTS