Bloomington-Normal Economic Development Council

06/02/2026

We're so thankful for everything Carl brings to the team. His hard work and dedication make a difference every day, and we're lucky to have him! Congratulations on three years. We appreciate you and all that you do!

06/01/2026

We’re excited to welcome Catalyst Construction Inc. as a new investor in the BNEDC! Their partnership supports our efforts to grow opportunity and support continued economic development across McLean County.

05/28/2026

Featured Site!

-56 acres ready for development. Includes 3 total parcels.
-Many anchoring businesses are nearby in a fast-growing area
-Easy access to I55, I74, US 51
-Nearest Airport: Central Illinois Regional Airport

Check out the full listing: https://app.locationone.com/sites/64076234d6115bcc3dc4ab32/2613-N-Main---56-Acres?organization=59eaba35bec80e09b4bbf180

05/27/2026

Congratulations to Jaclyn with JACQLOUR on publishing her first magazine, "The Journey of Jacqlour"! 🎉

We’re proud to have played a small role in her entrepreneurial journey. Jacqlour shared that the BNEDC introduced her to the $10,000 McLean County Commercial Lease Grant, and with guidance and support from the Illinois Small Business Development Center of McLean County at IWU, she signed a lease for her storefront in Uptown Normal.

Stories like this highlight the impact of community partnerships and the importance of supporting local entrepreneurs as they grow their vision into reality.

05/26/2026

Big things are happening in Downtown Bloomington IL 👏 Construction is underway on G.J. Lofts at the former State Farm building, bringing new housing, restaurants, and energy to Downtown!

Phase one, including the first 57 apartments, is expected to be completed by next summer. Justin Fern of Urban Equity Properties spoke to WGLT on details for the planned G.J. Lofts project.

05/21/2026

McLean County Regional Planning Commission and McLean County IL Government are partnering to create a new vision for the future of our communities, and they want your input.

Your feedback will help guide priorities for growth, transportation, housing, economic development, and quality of life across McLean County over the next 20 years.

To learn more and share your ideas, scan the QR code or visit this link: https://compplan-mcleangis.hub.arcgis.com/pages/public-survey

05/20/2026

Congratulations to Rivian on the launch of R2!

“The continued growth of Rivian in our community has been transformational in creating economic opportunity for our local workforce,” said Tyler Cravens, Interim CEO of the Bloomington-Normal Economic Development Council. “The R2 plant coming online combined with the supplier park developments are the latest investments that have resulted in good-paying jobs that support our local economy. Many of those job placements were made possible thanks to industry-specific training and education provided by Heartland Community College.”

05/06/2026

It’s National Small Business Week and Economic Development Week, so it’s a great time to recognize the impact our small businesses and entrepreneurs have here in McLean County.

They’re creating jobs, driving growth, and helping our communities thrive every day.

We also offer SizeUp on our website for small businesses/entrepreneurs as a free tool for market data and insights.

Thanks to our partners at the Illinois Small Business Development Center of McLean County at IWU for being a key resource for entrepreneurs in our community.

05/05/2026

Investors play a key role in our work here at BNEDC. They invest in our efforts to support local projects, attract opportunity, and strengthen our local economy. We’re grateful for their partnership in building a stronger region.

05/04/2026

We’re excited to kick off Economic Development Week with a quote from our Board Chair, Kristen Barnlund, on why economic development matters to our community.

Follow along as we celebrate Economic Development Week!