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Economic Development

Economic Development

Blog Posts

vegetables at a farmers market
Read article: Everything Local conference strengthens Illinois food supply chain
Everything Local conference strengthens Illinois food supply chain
Illinois producers and agribusiness leaders are increasingly seeking new opportunities to boost local food systems. Illinois Farm Bureau (IFB),...
Photo of Main Street in Havana, IL
Read article: Havana benefits from Illinois Rural Tourism research
Havana benefits from Illinois Rural Tourism research
Many small rural towns in Illinois are experiencing an economic downturn due to reasons beyond their control. One town,...
Profile picture of Richard Proffer, new Extension community and economic development educator
Read article: Richard Proffer hired as new Extension community and economic development educator
Richard Proffer hired as new Extension community and economic development educator
University of Illinois Extension, Fulton-Mason-Peoria-Tazewell Unit is pleased to announce...
thriving downtown buildings
Read article: Bring life to empty downtown buildings
Bring life to empty downtown buildings
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...

News Releases

downtown Havana, Illinois
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...
Colorful mural on the Hello Peoria Building
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...

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...

Staff

Amanda Cole

Amanda Cole

Strategy, Planning and Implementation Assistant Director