Illinois has once again proven its strength as a business and innovation hub, securing top positions across multiple categories in Business Facilities’ 21st Annual Rankings. Demonstrating leadership in emerging and established industries, Illinois ranked in the top ten across eleven categories, showcasing our state’s economic momentum.

Claiming the number one spot in nuclear energy, Illinois also achieved impressive rankings in Foreign Direct Investment, Agribusiness, Exports, Wind Power, Artificial Intelligence (AI) Job Hubs, Cybersecurity Talent, Solar Power, Film and Television, AI Job Market, and Medical Technology. These distinctions highlight Illinois’ robust infrastructure, skilled workforce and forward-thinking policies designed to foster economic growth and innovation.

Notably, Illinois improved its position in categories like Foreign Direct Investments and AI Job Hubs, reflecting significant progress from previous years. The state sustained high performance in areas like exports, wind power, agribusiness and cybersecurity, while making new appearances in solar power and medical technology rankings.

The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, credited the state’s comprehensive infrastructure, workforce capabilities, and attractive incentive programs as key factors behind Illinois’ sustained economic success. This highlights Illinois’ dedication to thoughtful policymaking and investments that drive continued expansion and attract businesses across various sectors.

These latest achievements build upon Illinois’ recent recognitions from CNBC, Site Selection Magazine, and Area Development, each highlighting Illinois as a favorable state for business investment, corporate expansion, and innovative technology industries.

With strategic growth initiatives and fiscal improvements—including multiple credit upgrades and significant private sector investments—Illinois is well-positioned to maintain its reputation as a leader in in an ever changing workplace landscape.