Economic Development

Blog Posts

Everything Local conference strengthens Illinois food supply chain

November 28, 2023

Illinois producers and agribusiness leaders are increasingly seeking new opportunities to boost local food systems. Illinois Farm Bureau (IFB),...

Havana benefits from Illinois Rural Tourism research

September 15, 2023

Many small rural towns in Illinois are experiencing an economic downturn due to reasons beyond their control. One town,...

Richard Proffer hired as new Extension community and economic development educator

September 6, 2022

University of Illinois Extension, Fulton-Mason-Peoria-Tazewell Unit is pleased to announce...

Bring life to empty downtown buildings

July 27, 2022

I’ve noticed that many of our rural Illinois communities have a vacant or derelict building in the heart of their downtown or on main street. While...

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News Releases

October 2, 2023

Havana benefits from Illinois Rural Tourism research
HAVANA, Ill. - Many small rural towns in Illinois are experiencing an economic downturn due to reasons beyond their control. One town, Havana, Illinois, is taking the bull by the horns to turn their community around economically. The local chamber of...

September 6, 2023

Illinois Extension selected to establish environmental assistance center to help Illinois communities
URBANA, Ill. — The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Energy, is funding the creation of Thriving Communities Technical Assistance Centers to help rural and underserved communities access state and federal funding for environmental...

Colorful mural on the Hello Peoria Building

May 9, 2023

Art and culture: A path to progress and community development
URBANA, Ill. — Artists, arts organizations and collectives, and arts activities, in general, can play a valuable role in economic and social development, as well as in the long-term sustainability of communities. Creating artistic spaces fosters connections across sectors to improve physical and...

Madeline Schultz speaking during her presentation on "Pitch It--More than a Mouthful"

April 13, 2023

Event Offers Networking and Educational Opportunities for Young and Beginning Farmers
Have you ever wondered how Young and Beginning Farmers get their start in Agriculture? The Jo Daviess, Stephenson, and Winnebago Counties Extension offices have been involved in a Young and Beginning Farmer Research Project for the last year. The goal of the project is to assess how young and...

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Videos

Transitioning Energy Economies: Rural Clean Energy (2023)

Co-hosts: University of Illinois Extension, Prairie Rivers Network, Just Transition Fund, USDA Rural Development

This webinar series will explore state and federal opportunities related to the energy transition, including clean energy programs, transportation electrification, and other...