GEDC, ComEd partner on community project

The Grundy Economic Development Council (GEDC) is again partnering with ComEd to conduct the Business Retention and Outreach Program designed to retain jobs and investments in the community.

The award-winning ComEd program helps ensure existing businesses in northern Illinois remain economically viable. This year’s initiative kicked off with a meeting held on Feb. 15 that included board and committee members of the GEDC, and local elected officials.

The GEDC is entering its seventh year in the program. Past years have included visits to nearly 150 businesses, which occupy approximately 13 million square feet of facilities and employ more than 10,000 people in the region. This base of existing businesses in Grundy County is one of the most important assets in the community, and represents the firms making payroll and capital investments in the county right now.

The face-to-face interviews conducted examine issues such as workforce quality, recruiting, expansion plans, competitive challenges and overall satisfaction with the community as a place to do business. The important feedback provided through the visits directly impacts the priorities and initiatives of the GEDC and gives community leaders better insight into the business climate of the county.

“Our commitment to the businesses of Grundy County is stronger than ever” said Nancy Ammer, CEO of the GEDC. “The ComEd program serves as a tool to ensure that we can proactively address any challenges area businesses face as early as possible.”

Based on the visits with local businesses, ComEd will conduct a detailed analysis that identifies key trends and issues affecting local businesses. Using this analysis, the GEDC will work with ComEd to proactively address the likelihood that such issues would have a negative impact on the business or economic climate.

“ComEd wants to help our communities grow and prosper. Part of that is helping our customers conserve energy, save money and protect the environment,” said Ed Sitar, manager of economic development for ComEd. “That’s also why we provide specialized programs to work with groups engaged in economic development to improve the vitality of the communities we serve.”

For more information regarding this year’s business retention and outreach program, contact the GEDC at (815) 942-0163.