National magazine lists Kane County No. 17 in country for business growth, development
Cook County only other Illinois county to join Top 20 list by Site Selection magazine
Microplastics Inc. in St. Charles was acquired by German-based MATEtronix earlier this year. (Photo Provided By Plastics News, Don Loepp)
Kane County is among the top 20 hotspots in the nation for expanding businesses, according to a leading magazine on global economic development.
“Site Selection” magazine ranked the county No. 17 nationally for total corporate expansion projects completed between January 2025 and March 2026.
Kane and Cook counties were the only two Illinois counties to crack the Top 20, according to a news release by the Kane County government.
Kane County Board Chair Corrine Pierog said the county provides the infrastructure, workforce and quality of life “needed to succeed.”
“We are proud to be recognized as one of the nation’s top destinations for business investment and job creation and are committed to creating opportunities that strengthen our economy and benefit residents throughout Kane County,” Pierog said in the release.
The list is meant to be an indicator for strength in business investment and job creation.
The continued business growth helped the county achieve a $35 billion nominal Gross Domestic Product, or market value for business, with a workforce of around 254,000, according to the release.
Among other factors, the county said location plays a large role. The proximity to O’Hare International Airport, and several major interstate highways and freight rail networks helped connect companies to regional, national and global markets, county officials said.
The county government said the recognition also reflects the dedication of the Kane County Economic Development Corporation. The agency partners with businesses, municipalities and regional organizations to ensure the county “remains competitive, business-ready and positioned for long-term economic success.”
The goal of the EDC is to help local businesses “grow and expand, attracting new investment that creates quality jobs, and fosters collaboration across municipalities,” according to the release.
“Site Selection is read by site consultants and corporate real estate managers who make business location decisions,” the corporation’s CEO Michel Cassa said in the release. “This affords us the opportunity to share Kane County’s many advantages as a location for business investment.”
The county said companies interested in locating or expanding in Kane County can explore industrial and commercial sites through the EDC’s website.
