Illinois continues to prove it’s one of the top destinations in the country for business investment—and Southern Illinois is playing a key role in that momentum.
For the fourth consecutive year, Illinois has ranked #2 in the nation for corporate expansion and relocation projects, according to Site Selection Magazine’s annual Governor’s Cup rankings. The recognition places Illinois firmly among the nation’s economic leaders, just behind Texas, with 680 major corporate facility projects in 2025.
These rankings are widely considered the gold standard in economic development, tracking real-world business investment through projects that meet thresholds for capital investment, job creation, or new construction.
“Illinois has entered a new era of economic development—one defined by innovation, close collaboration, and a commitment to unlocking the state’s full potential,” said Christy George, President and CEO of the Illinois Economic Development Corporation. “That sustained performance sends a powerful signal to investors and decision-makers around the world that Illinois offers the stability, talent, infrastructure, and partnership businesses need to thrive.”
Southern Illinois Driving Real Results
While the statewide ranking is impressive, the story becomes even more compelling when you look at what’s happening across Southern Illinois.
Communities throughout the region are seeing a surge in manufacturing investment, logistics expansion, and industrial growth—bringing with it new jobs, higher wages, and renewed economic confidence.
Recent project highlights include:
- Prysmian in Du Quoin, which has expanded to nearly double its footprint, adding high-wage jobs and reinforcing its long-term commitment to the region
- Fare Foods, currently constructing a new distribution center in Du Quoin
- Scates Group Intermodal, developing a new river terminal fertilizer distribution facility in Old Shawneetown
- Solstice Advanced Materials (formerly Honeywell) in Metropolis, which has recently announced increased production at its existing operation
These projects are more than individual wins—they reflect a broader regional resurgence.
Across Southern Illinois, employment levels have fully rebounded since the pandemic, and average wages have increased by nearly 30% over the past six years1. That kind of growth signals not just recovery, but transformation.
Why Southern Illinois Is Winning
Southern Illinois brings a unique mix of advantages that continue to attract investment:
- A deep-rooted manufacturing heritage with a skilled workforce
- Strategic access to major interstate systems and Ohio and Mississippi River corridors
- Available sites and infrastructure ready for development
- Strong partnerships with community colleges and universities aligned to industry needs
From Du Quoin to Metropolis to Mt. Vernon and beyond, communities are leveraging these strengths to compete—and win—on a national stage.
A Statewide Strategy with Local Impact
Illinois’ continued success in the Governor’s Cup rankings is no accident. It’s the result of a coordinated, statewide approach often referred to as “Team Illinois,” where state agencies, regional organizations, utilities, educators, and private industry work together to attract and grow business.
That collaboration is translating into real outcomes—not just in Chicago, but in regions like Southern Illinois that are proving to be essential to the state’s economic future.
Momentum That’s Built to Last
As Illinois continues to rank among the top states in the nation for business investment, Southern Illinois stands out as a region on the rise.
With strong fundamentals, growing industries, and measurable gains in both employment and wages, the region is helping power Illinois’ success—and building a future defined by opportunity, resilience, and sustained growth.
- Source: JobsEQ®. Data as of 2025Q3.