News & Events

BOURBONNAIS – The Illinois Manufacturers’ Association (IMA) continued its statewide “Manufacturing Matters” tour on Thursday during an event held by the Economic Alliance of Kankakee County detailing the results of a new economic impact study measuring the industry’s significant contributions to the state and regional economy.

The Economic Alliance of Kankakee County has named Joe Franco of Kankakee as the inaugural recipient of the IMPACT Award for his commitment to the growth of sustainable development in the region.

“Manufacturing Matters” Tour to Visit Kankakee County, Highlight Industry’s Important Role in State and Regional Economy 
New Economic Study Finds Manufacturing Generates $5 billion in Economic Output in Kankakee County, Supports 8,465 Jobs

Kankakee County’s greatest strength is the ability to thrive given any situation.  Capital improvements and infrastructure projects are underway; global, national, and local shareholders have pinned Kankakee County as a place to invest, employers are expanding and hiring, and new jobs are being created.

As we celebrate manufacturing month in October, we celebrate the amazing products made in Kankakee County and across the region. The Economic Alliance works closely with the Illinois Manufacturers’​ Association and IMEC Illinois to support our local companies.

Launched by the Community Development Corporation of Pembroke and Hopkins Park, the PEEP Program is aimed at helping the community have clean-energy options by improving energy efficiency and electrification. 

A new program is coming to Kankakee County high schools geared to strengthen the workforce, enhance the partnerships with employers and high schools, and help our community grow and prosper. KANKAKEE COUNTY CEO will kick off in four area high schools in August 2023.

The Economic Alliance of Kankakee County seeks to recognize a distinguished individual, business or organization that has demonstrated positive and impactful sustainable development in the region. The IMPACT Award recipient will be honored at the November 10, 2022 Board of Directors meeting to be held at Olivet Nazarene University with complimentary breakfast at 7:00 am and the meeting to begin at 7:30 am.

The Makers on the Move bus tour with the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association and Illinois Manufacturing Excellence Center stopped at CSL Behring in Bradley Monday, October 10 as as way to highlight great manufacturing across Illinois.

Six airports have received Airport of the Year awards from the Illinois Department of Transportation, including the Greater Kankakee Airport honored with the General Aviation Airport of the Year Award for airports with a runway greater than 5,000 feet.