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Quad Cities Chamber Blog
QC, That's Where the Quad Cities Chamber and area businesses in our family of communities are advancing regional prosperity and advocating for economic growth along the Mississippi River.
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66 QC High School students sign apprenticeships with local companies on Signing Day
May 9, 2024
Sixty-six Quad Cities students signed letters of intent to launch careers in the QC during the high school apprenticeship Signing Day event. Students from 6 different school districts expressed their commitment to becoming apprentices at 20 different employers throughout the region.
First Student Success Symposium connects students with local employers
April 24, 2024
On Tuesday, April 23, 160+ local high school students and nearly 30 Quad Cities employers connected at the first Success Symposium, hosted by the Quad Cities Chamber and funded by the Moline Regional Community Foundation. This dynamic event aimed to inspire and guide high school students on the path to their future careers. The Symposium included a hands-on career fair helping to bridge the gap between industry leaders and students eager to explore diverse career opportunities through interactives and live demonstrations.
Chamber celebrates new apprencticeships
April 17, 2024
The Quad Cities Chamber is celebrating three new apprenticeships scheduled to begin this summer. These apprenticeship programs are part of the Chamber’s strategic vision to address the immediate and future workforce needs of regional employers by leveraging educational assets to address talent pipeline challenges.
Illinois Hydrogen & Tech Hub designation
January 29, 2024
Illinois was awarded funding from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) for the Midwest Hydrogen Hub. The $1 billion award hopes to foster a healthy economic environment for the hydrogen production market and create clean energy jobs across the Midwest region.
Site Selection Magazine gives #1 rankings to Illinois & Iowa for workforce development
January 28, 2024
Site Selection Magazine ranked both Illinois and Iowa #1 for workforce development in 2024 for their respective regions.
Chamber names participants for 3rd Leadership QC cohort
January 19, 2024
The Chamber’s third Leadership QC cohort is slated to begin on Thursday, Jan. 25. This group of 12 community-minded leaders and change-makers from the area's business and non-profit world will have a chance to discuss and facilitate solutions to our community's most challenging business and social issues.
Dr. LaDrina Wilson’s farewell message
January 12, 2024
The Quad Cities Chamber gives a heartfelt thanks to Dr. LaDrina Wilson for leading our team over the past 18 months as the Chamber’s CEO. Hear from LaDrina as she bids us farewell and recaps her 18 months with the Chamber.
New President & CEO of Quad Cities Chamber announced
December 6, 2023
The Quad Cities Chamber announced Wednesday that Peter Tokar III, MBA, MEDP will be the next President & CEO starting mid-January 2024. Tokar brings over 17 years of experience serving economic development organizations and municipalities in large markets where regionalism has been a key component of success. He has worked closely with chambers, state and local economic development practitioners, site selectors and elected officials, as well as raised funds from public and private sector sources.
Return to lower inflation and more normal financial market conditions predicted for 2024
December 1, 2023
Kevin Depew, RSM Deputy Chief Economist, was the keynote speaker at the Quad Cities Chamber’s Economic Forecast and provided an in-depth analysis of the national and regional economy to help QC businesses prepare for the coming year.
Generation Next creating agents of change in QC
November 29, 2023
If comments from the first cohort of the Generation Next program are any indication, it won’t be long to see new names stepping forward to embrace wider roles in the civic life of the Quad Cities. Applications are now being taken for the second cohort of up to 40 participants who will begin their journey in January to learn more about getting involved in the QC community through board and committee service.
QC, That’s Where manufacturers helped build our region & continue to evolve
October 19, 2023
QC, That’s Where manufacturing helped spark the emergence of our region and continues to build the foundation for our future. It’s where hundreds of manufacturers are creating our region’s legacy as a manufacturing hub while simultaneously creating products that fuel the global economy.
“Makers on the Move” bus tour celebrates QC manufacturers’ contributions to our region
October 11, 2023
The Makers on the Move bus tour came to the Quad Cities to celebrate Illinois manufacturers and their contributions to the state’s largest industry during this Manufacturing Month, making stops at some of our region’s premier manufacturing sites along the way. The tour brought industry advocates, educators, economic development organizations, public officials and other manufacturing stakeholders to the Quad Cities to showcase our innovative manufacturing sector and the high-tech, diverse manufacturing opportunities available in our region.
2024 Public Policy Survey Reveals Valuable Insights from Local Business Leaders
September 27, 2023
Our 2024 public policy survey received more than 100 total responses from our membership. The information we received will directly impact our legislative agenda and help our Business Advocacy Council tap into the needs of the Quad Cities business community. Below, you’ll find some of the highlights from the survey and the actions the Chamber is taking to address them.
Davenport, Bettendorf Students Give Back to their Communities through Bike Racks Project
September 7, 2023
During the 2022-23 school year, welding students from Davenport West High School and Bettendorf High School created 40 bike racks, 20 each to be installed in their respective downtowns. Their inventive efforts are having a positive impact on our region while equipping each student with real-world skills and showing them the power they have to create change in their communities.
Fall 2023 Chamber Event Series: Become Immersed in the QC Business Community
August 29, 2023
No matter your industry or interests, the Chamber Fall Event Series is empowering our members to connect and build relationships with QC businesspeople and leaders. At each event, we provide a stage for you to gain timely, relevant information that ties to the success of your business and our region. Come get connected with fellow members and to fresh ideas so we can create a common thread for our business community to take steps forward towards elevating our region.
New Chamber website provides the resources you need, whenever you need them
August 2, 2023
The new Chamber website is now live, and we're here to explain all the features that will make your journey more efficient and enjoyable. The new website will play a key role in providing our members with useful online resources, educating site visitors on the opportunities available in the Quad Cities region and attracting new businesses and talent to the region.
2023 Bi-State Legislative Session Recap
July 12, 2023
The State Legislatures of both Iowa and Illinois have concluded their legislative sessions, with consequential legislation passing both Chambers in each state. As a bi-state regional economy, legislation passed in both states impacts all businesses. Here's the legislation you need to know about.
Weekly Economic Trends and Indicators
July 4, 2023
The employment numbers for the month of May in the Quad Cities were "good," but not quite "great." Manufacturing as well as leisure and hospitality have surpassed pre-pandemic employment, but the same cannot be said of all sectors. Labor force participation, especially in services other than leisure and hospitality has lagged even as job growth in the region continues to be robust.
Seeking Business of the Year nominations
June 28, 2023
All Chamber members are encouraged to apply for the Business of the Year award. The winner will be recognized on Aug. 10 during the 2023 Quad Cities Chamber Annual Meeting presented by IMEG Corp.
Seeking Regional Champion of Change nominations
June 27, 2023
All Chamber members are encouraged to apply for the Regional Champion of Change award. The winner will be recognized on Aug. 10 during the 2023 Quad Cities Chamber Annual Meeting presented by IMEG Corp.
Let’s Start Talking About Mental Health in the Workplace
June 22, 2023
With employees spending 40 or more hours in the workplace every week, employers are uniquely equipped to help their employees improve their mental health. So what can businesses do to more effectively promote mental health in their workplaces? We spoke with three mental health-focused Quad Cities organizations to gain their insights on this topic.
Weekly Economic Trends and Indicators
June 20, 2023
The Federal Reserve held their interest rate target constant last week on the heels of good news on the inflation front. Core inflation remains stubbornly high, which likely means more rate increases later in the year. Perhaps the best part of the news is that inflation expectations continue to fall.
Quad Cities Downtowns are Overflowing with Summer Events in 2023
June 14, 2023
Just days away from the official start of Summer 2023, the heat has already arrived and the season’s festivities are underway in the Quad Cities. Here’s what’s going on in QC downtowns.
Laborshed study surveying Quad Cities residents
June 6, 2023
The Quad Cities Chamber is partnering with Iowa Workforce Development (IWD) and Iowa Economic Development Authority to complete a Laborshed employment study for the Quad Cities area.
Weekly Economic Trends and Indicators
June 5, 2023
The U.S. economy added another 339,000 jobs in May, but the report was not all good news. Manufacturing jobs were flat, and unemployment rose significantly. This complicates matters for the Federal Reserve's upcoming decision on interest rates. While the robust labor market suggests another rate increase may be in order, there is mounting evidence that the economy could slow down enough in the second half of 2023 to warrant a pause in rate hikes.
Weekly Economic Trends and Indicators
May 31, 2023
Last week, we examined the recent history of economic growth in the Quad Cities area. This week, we take a historical perspective on the local labor market. By looking at employment and labor force numbers, we can see how the Quad Cities labor market has been shaped by demographic factors as well as national events such as recessions and the COVID-19 pandemic.
Iowa Lawmakers Close 2023 Session
May 24, 2023
The First Session of Iowa’s 90th General Assembly adjourned Thursday, May 5, 2023. Here is a summary of the top legislation we tracked this year that could impact the Quad Cities, organized by Chamber priorities.
Weekly Economic Trends and Indicators
May 22, 2023
This week, we look at the recent history of economic growth in the Quad Cities area. In the 20 years since 2001, real GDP growth in the Quad Cities Chamber service area has averaged about 0.8% per year, growing from about $21.3 billion to $24.9 billion (in 2012 dollars) over that period of time.
What is your QC, That’s Where?
May 17, 2023
The Chamber asked Quad Citizens to provide their QC, That’s Where statements at Hob Nosh, and the responses didn’t disappoint. Each response provided a unique insight into the region’s meaning to the people who call it home.
Weekly Economic Trends and Indicators
May 15, 2023
The CPI for all urban consumers increased, but at a lower rate than expected, giving markets some hope that the Federal Reserve could pause interest rate increases. As of Monday, May 15, the probability of a pause at the June FOMC meeting sits at 75.8%.
Welcome to the newest Chamber Members!
May 9, 2023
Welcome New March & April Chamber Members! The Quad Cities Chamber welcomed 12 new members in March and April. Thank you to each of these organizations for their unique contributions and investment…
Illinois House passes resolution for Moline-Chicago passenger rail
May 3, 2023
On Tuesday, May 2, the Illinois House adopted Rep. Gregg Johnson's resolution (HR0167) to urge Gov. Pritzker to make a formal request to the National Transportation Board (NTSB) regarding the QC passenger rail project.
Atlas Roofing announces plans for manufacturing plant in Clinton
April 25, 2023
With the support of the Chamber, Atlas Roofing Corporation, a leading North American manufacturer of building products, recently announced its new $200 million asphalt shingle manufacturing facility will be built in Clinton.
John Deere Supplier Diversity Meet & Greet connects QC suppliers with Deere
April 25, 2023
John Deere, in partnership with the Chamber, hosted a Supplier Diversity Meet & Greet, where local suppliers were invited to create or build upon their business relationships with Deere. Eleven local suppliers met face-to-face with decision makers from Deere.
Weekly Economic Trends and Indicators
April 24, 2023
In this third in a series on the Quad Cities economy, we examine wages levels in key industries. We find that wages for many of the occupations most concentrated in the Quad Cities are slightly lower than the national average. However, this is balanced by the lower cost of living here compared to other parts of the country.
New leaders welcomed to Chamber leadership team
April 12, 2023
The Chamber is pleased to announce that the leadership team is now fully staffed with the addition of three new members. The new leaders come from diverse backgrounds that will make them vital members of the team, including decades of experience and expertise in their fields and proven track records of success.
Rock Island Downtown Alliance Board Approved
March 28, 2023
Board members for the newly created Rock Island Downtown Alliance were appointed by Mayor Mike Thoms and approved by City Council on March 27, 2023. This marks the next successful step in launching a place management organization affiliated with the Quad Cities Chamber to manage Rock Island’s new downtown Special Service Area.
Weekly Economic Trends and Indicators
March 24, 2023
Manufacturing employment had a good year in the Quad Cities, and the local unemployment rate fell from 5.3% to 4.5% from January 2022 to January 2023. However, continued interest rate increases by the Federal Reserve could pose issues for both the national and local economy in the year ahead.
Minority Business Panel shows challenges facing minority entrepreneurs
March 23, 2023
The journey of an entrepreneur is filled with obstacles at every turn, and solutions to those challenges are hard to come by when you lack a support network. Last week, the Chamber held our first ever Minority Business panel, where attendees learned about the entrepreneurial journeys of four Quad Cities minority business owners who discussed their unique insights regarding challenges they’ve faced as minority businesspersons.
Illinois announces Back to Business grants for creative arts, hotels & restaurants
March 22, 2023
Illinois announced the continuation of the Back 2 Business program with $175 million in three new grant opportunities for creative arts, hotels and restaurants.
Weekly Economic Trends and Indicators
March 17, 2023
On March 10th, Silicon Valley Bank (SVB), a key player in the world of start-up financing, failed due to a run on its deposits. The resulting fallout in the financial markets this week has cast uncertainty on the upcoming Federal Reserve interest rate decision and the likelihood of recession.
New Business Legislation in Iowa and Illinois
March 16, 2023
At the beginning of this year, legislation went into effect or was signed into law to take effect in both Iowa and Illinois. Let's dive into how companies can benefit from these new business incentive opportunities.
Illinois enacts mandatory paid leave
March 15, 2023
Illinois is now the third state to require businesses to grant employees paid time off for any reason. According to the bill, which will become law on Jan. 1, 2024, employees will accrue one hour of paid time off for every 40 hours worked, with the ability to accrue up to 40 hours.
Tamales for Hope illustrates the fighting spirit of a successful entrepreneur
March 15, 2023
Tamales for Hope is one of the Quad Cities’ greatest small business stories. Owner, Carmen Lopez has overcame challenges that go far beyond the typical small business growing pains.
Government Affairs Update
March 14, 2023
The Chamber traveled to Springfield to meet one-on-one with Illinois legislators. The team met with IDOT Secretary Omer Osman to discuss the Moline-Chicago passenger rail project. Here's what he told us.
Weekly Economic Trends and Indicators
March 10, 2023
The U.S. trade deficit increased by about $1 billion on a seasonally adjusted basis (about 1.6%) in January, moving from $67.2 billion to $68.3 billion. Exports jumped by 3.4% from $249.0 billion to $257.5 billion, which was the largest monthly increase since April.
Weekly Economic Trends & Indicators
March 3, 2023
Wage growth slowed for the third consecutive month in January, according to the BLS. Average earnings across all private (non-government) occupations were $33.03 per hour, up from $32.93 in December.
Passenger rail next steps
February 27, 2023
The Chamber has been a longtime advocate in supporting and securing state and federal funding for passenger rail.
PCT Ebeam and Integration expanding Davenport facility
February 27, 2023
PCT Ebeam and Integration, a global-reaching electron-beam technology company, is expanding its operations in the Quad Cities by doubling the size of their existing 30,000-square-foot facility.
Weekly Economic Trends & Indicators
February 24, 2023
A report this week by the real estate firm Redfin stated that the total value of U.S. homes fell by $2.3 trillion from June to December 2022 (decline of 4.9%).
Connecting QC youth with jobs
February 22, 2023
Hundreds of young adults attended the QC Mayors' Young Adult Hiring Fair on Tuesday, Feb. 21. Held at Bettendorf's Waterfront Convention Center, the aspring adults had the opportunity to meet with Quad Cities area businesses to learn more about the diverse job opportunities available in the Quad Cities.
Quad City Steamwheelers Reverse Job Fair seeking employers
February 22, 2023
The Quad Cities Chamber is teaming up with IowaWORKS to host the second Quad City Steamwheelers reverse hiring fair on March 13, an event where QC employers will get the opportunity to meet with Steamwheeler athletes who are seeking job opportunities that fit with their professional football schedule.
Government Affairs Update
February 20, 2023
An Iowa bill, SF 167, is a re-write of Iowa's child labor laws that would update allowed work duties. The bill would expand the allowable hours of work and expand school driving permits to include places of employment for kids aged 14-16.
Weekly Economic Trends & Indicators
February 17, 2023
Inflation continues to be a stubborn problem for the U.S. economy. This week saw two important data releases from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
Chamber will provide place management services for downtown Rock Island
February 14, 2023
The Chamber is pleased to announce a partnership with the City of Rock Island to provide place management services for downtown.
Government Affairs Update
February 13, 2023
Gov. Pritzker will present his State of the State and budget address to the Illinois legislature this week. An Iowa bill that would limit the monetary award to patients involved in medical malpractice lawsuits is waiting on Gov. Reynolds' signature.
Weekly Economic Trends & Indicators
February 10, 2023
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), nonfarm business sector productivity in the U.S. increased 3.0% in the fourth quarter of 2022.
2023 Employee Retention Credit
February 9, 2023
Businesses may be surprised to learn how many organizations (all types and all sizes) are eligible for ERTC and how large the total dollar amount an eligible organization can receive.
Welcome January Members
February 7, 2023
The Quad Cities Chamber welcomed five new members in January.
Government Affairs Update
February 6, 2023
Illinois House & Senate committee appointments made; in Iowa, watching HF1 and SF181
Second Leadership QC cohort announced
January 26, 2023
The Quad Cities Chamber’s second cohort of the nine-month Leadership QC program started this week.
Government Affairs Update
January 23, 2023
We're watching two Iowa Senate Bills this week: SSB 1056 and SF 10.
Government Affairs Update
January 17, 2023
Iowa and Illinois legislators are back in action. Here's a recap of last week.
LaDrina Wilson reflects on MLK Day
January 16, 2023
"My goal for our community is to be a community that is rooted in love, compassion and kindness."
Welcome December New Members
January 11, 2023
The Quad Cities Chamber welcomed eight new members in December.
Advocating for QC region in 2023
January 9, 2023
We're gearing up for Illinois and Iowa legislative sessions; learn about our Regional Advocacy Priorities.
Celebrating our region’s 2022 successes
December 20, 2022
As we enter the final days of 2022, it’s a great opportunity to reflect on all the successes our QC region celebrated this year.
Rock Island City Council establishes Special Service Area
December 13, 2022
Rock Island City Council on Dec. 12 approved an ordinance to establish a Downtown Special Service Area (SSA).
Bipartisan agreement will pay off Unemployment Insurance deficit
December 7, 2022
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker announced a bipartisan agreement has been reached to pay off the remaining $1.36 billion of the pandemic unemployment insurance deficit. This will save businesses more than $900 million in higher taxes and preserve the solvency of the Unemployment Trust Fund.
Glad you’ve joined us! Meet our newest members
December 6, 2022
The Quad Cities Chamber welcomed four new members in November. Thank you to each of these organizations for their unique contributions and investment in our region's success- you are making an impact.
Economic outlook: stubborn inflation, rising rates, slower growth
December 1, 2022
At the Quad Cities Chamber’s Economic Forecast, Kevin Depew, RSM Deputy Chief Economist and National Industry Eminence Program Leader, provided an in-depth analysis of the national and regional economy and offered macroeconomic perspectives and industry insights to help QC middle market businesses prepare for the coming year.
SSA right move for downtown Rock Island
December 1, 2022
The time is now to move forward with a proven path and create an SSA in partnership with a new place management organization affiliated with the Quad Cities Chamber to help revitalize downtown Rock Island.
Midland Davis opens pallet refurbishing division
November 30, 2022
Midland Davis Corp., one of the oldest full-service recycling companies in the Midwest, has expanded its operations and launched a wood pallet refurbishing division in Rock Island. This fifth-generation family company is now collecting, repairing, reconstructing and selling refurbished wood pallets to customers in the region.
Cocina Verde food truck on the road providing 100% vegan authentic Mexican food
November 29, 2022
Karen and Emmanuel García launched their business, the Cocina Verde food truck earlier this year. Before they did so, they turned to the Illinois Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at WIU-QC for guidance. The Quad Cities Chamber partners with the Illinois SBDC at WIU-QC on providing outreach and services to minority-owned businesses in the region.
Magical Moments Learning Center continues to grow
November 29, 2022
Lethia Wright said the business advisors at the Iowa Small Business Development Center at Eastern Iowa Community Colleges went above and beyond to help her launch her business, Magical Moments Learning Center. “They saw the passion I had and were extremely helpful," she said. The Quad Cities Chamber partners with the Iowa SBDC at Eastern Iowa Community Colleges on providing outreach and services to minority-owned businesses in the region.
Building on vibrancy and livability of downtown RI
November 28, 2022
As the City of Rock Island considers establishing a downtown Special Service Area (SSA), the Chamber has been honored to work alongside the City, downtown property owners and businesses. Hear Chamber CEO, Dr. LaDrina Wilson's message on this opportunity.
QC, that’s where we support our small businesses
November 15, 2022
QC, that’s where entrepreneurs enrich us with their innovation and inventive imagination. It is where small business owners invest – dollars, as well as lots of heart & soul – into our region’s success. And it is where we reciprocate by investing in them, too. QC, that’s where we put our money where our community is, embracing the movement and the power of doing business local.
Viewpoint: SSA is a vehicle to build and celebrate downtown RI
November 15, 2022
Positive action requires positive vision, and the Rock Island City Council and staff deserve applause for taking that approach to revitalizing downtown and considering the establishment of a Special Service Area (SSA). At the Quad Cities Chamber, we truly believe in the value of downtowns and place, and we see the SSA as a vehicle to move everyone in the same positive direction toward building and celebrating this place.
QC, that’s where our love of nature is good for business & all who live here
November 9, 2022
QC, that’s where environmental stewardship isn’t a trend – it’s a value on full display. It is where Midland Davis Corp. sparked the QC’s recycling revolution – starting in 1892. And where conserving the environment and protecting shared resources is part of everyday best practices for QC-headquartered West Liberty Foods. It is where an EPA-declared Superfund Site was reclaimed by the community and became Nahant Marsh Education Center - a remarkable natural playground we get to explore.
Welcome our newest members in Sept. & Oct.!
November 2, 2022
The Quad Cities Chamber welcomed 20 new members in September and October. Thank you to each of these organizations for their unique contributions and investment in our region's success- you are making an impact.
IL & IA DOT seek feedback on I-80 bridge alternatives
November 2, 2022
Officials from Illinois and Iowa Departments of Transportation (DOT) continue to study alternatives for the I-80 bridge and recommended moving forward with alternatives two, three, four and five. Illinois DOT and Iowa DOT will accept public comment on the four options through Nov. 10 and businesses are encouraged to share feedback with the states and the Chamber.
November ballot – no change to Illinois Constitution needed
October 28, 2022
On November 8, Illinois voters will be asked to amend a portion of the Illinois Constitution. On sample ballots in Rock Island, Henry and Mercer counties, the amendment will be listed as “Proposed Amendment to the 1970 Illinois Constitution.” Read the Chamber's position on this amendment.
Chamber Business Forum stresses need for creating an inclusive workforce culture
October 28, 2022
Evidence has shown that what holds a company together as it progresses, evolves and becomes successful is the people; and what makes the people want to be there is the workplace culture. During the Chamber’s Oct. 26 Business Forum: Cultivating an Inclusive Workplace Culture, attendees heard from three QC business leaders who are connecting with job-seekers and employees.
Rock Island Arsenal soon to be home to world’s largest 3D printer
October 26, 2022
The world’s largest metal additive 3D printer, a machine capable of printing a joint-free hull for the U.S. Army’s next-generation combat vehicle, is expected to be up and running at the Joint Manufacturing Technology Center (JMTC) on the Rock Island Arsenal next spring. It is a story of remarkable innovation that can revolutionize warfighter survivability and illustrates the power of partnerships between the Chamber-affiliated Rock Island Arsenal Defense Alliance (RIADA); federal, state and local elected officials; ASTRO America; and the U.S. Army.
RIADA executive director is ready to further RIA’s position in our nation’s defense and QC economy
October 25, 2022
Mike Hutchison, SES (Ret.), Executive Director of the Rock Island Arsenal Defense Alliance (RIADA) has returned to the Quad Cities to lead initiatives to support and grow one of our region’s top employers, the Rock Island Arsenal, and the QC defense industry.
New grant award to help local manufacturers and defense contractors
October 25, 2022
The Quad Cities Chamber is one of four Illinois Defense Manufacturing Consortium (ILDMC) community members that will share a $5 million grant to help local manufacturing companies and defense contractors grow through operational excellence, innovative technology and workforce.
Jenelle Wolber earns Economic Development Finance Professional certification
October 19, 2022
Jenelle Wolber, Director, Business & Economic Growth Services for the Quad Cities Chamber, was recently certified as an Economic Development Finance Professional (EDFP) by the National Development Council (NDC). Wolber is the Chamber’s lead for Business and Economic Growth projects. She works closely with QC and prospective businesses, ensuring they understand the benefits their projects will have on the region and know about all financial assistance opportunities.
QC is a green energy powerhouse for businesses
October 11, 2022
QC, that’s where a diverse portfolio of green energy allows mega manufacturers, global corporations and small businesses to enjoy the 11th lowest electricity rates in America. It's where industry powerhouses and corner craft breweries operate on renewable, sustainable and carbon-free energy. It is where corporate social responsibility becomes action, upheld through a diverse portfolio of low-cost, abundant and reliable energy sources.
Applauding QC manufacturers during National Manufacturing Month
October 5, 2022
QC, that’s where manufacturing is the powerhouse that fuels our region’s economy. That’s where we are building on the legacy of John Deere, a global giant that remains rooted in the QC and the genesis for countless spinoffs and innovators. That’s where businesses are embracing advanced manufacturing technology and robotics, leading their companies and highly skilled workers into the future. Let's celebrate our regional manufacturers during National Manufacturing Month for the massive impact they make.
QC companies reflect and elevate the goals of a new generation
September 13, 2022
When you find a company that aligns with your values, a career isn't work – it’s a calling, a fun avenue to contribute and enrich the community in which you live.
Jenna Blozevich is living that life in the Quad Cities, and she’s far from alone. Young professionals are planting roots in this growing riverfront region because the QC and the companies that call it home reflect and elevate the goals of a new generation.
FAQ: Downtown Rock Island Special Service Area
September 13, 2022
The process to establish a downtown Rock Island Special Service Area (SSA) as a vehicle to stabilize investments and revitalize the greater downtown has entered the public comment phase. Learn how to provide input, the timeline and read the FAQ about the proposed SSA and place management organization.
Leadership QC forges a path to strengthen our region
September 6, 2022
Leadership QC is a program anchored in corporate social responsibility and when we launched it eight months ago, we challenged 23 business, nonprofit and community leaders to approach the region’s most pressing issues in a comprehensive and collaborative manner. The group heard from a variety of government and nonprofit organizations, learning more about the QC as well as strengthening their leadership skills. This is the path to advancing and growing our region, and many participants arrived at the first session in January already dedicated to that mission.
Fair Oaks Foods breaks ground on a $134 million investment in the QC
September 1, 2022
After growing nearly 500% in the past 30 years, Fair Oaks Foods celebrated another milestone on Thursday, Sept. 1, with a groundbreaking for a new state-of-the-art production facility in the Quad Cities. The event, attended by the City of Davenport, Quad Cities Chamber and additional community leaders, marked the company’s first expansion outside Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin, and a $134 million investment in the region.
The Granary Coffee House & Brewery ‘crafts’ are boosting QC economy
August 30, 2022
Since opening in May, The Granary Coffee House & Brewery has stood true to its mission, providing the QC with a unique destination offering all things craft. It is an entrepreneurial success story and one for the QC region, too. The Granary Coffee House & Brewery created more than seven jobs and is expected to have a $559,483 annual economic impact on our six-county region.
Bayside Bistro is making an impact on our region and its customers
August 30, 2022
The recent expansion of Bayside Bistro into Rock Island did more than contribute to the economic success and strength of the city; it is having that same effect on the entire QC region. Between the investment in the building and equipment, the jobs created and owners Darryl and LaTisha Howlett’s growing businesses and customer base, Bayside Bistro will have an annual economic impact of $645,726 on our region.
Welcome our newest members!
August 29, 2022
The Quad Cities Chamber welcomed seven new members in August 2022. Thank you to each of these organizations for their unique contributions and investment in our region's success- you are making an impact.
QC is the place for budding entrepreneurs
August 23, 2022
A solid home base for budding entrepreneurs, the Quad Cities region attracts talent with intriguing business opportunities, great quality of life and a diverse mix of arts, culture, sports, parks and nightlife.
“Manufacturing Matters” tour visits Quad Cities, highlights industry’s important role in state and regional economy
August 23, 2022
A new economic study finds manufacturing generates $4.9 billion in economic output in Rock Island County and supports 13,050 jobs. The Illinois Manufacturers’ Association (IMA) released those findings during a “Manufacturing Matters” tour stop in Moline.
Fall 2022 Chamber events: providing the information, resources and connections you need
August 19, 2022
We strive to provide the critical information, resources and opportunities QC businesses need to thrive. In our Fall 2022 events line-up, we open the room for you to connect and build relationships with people from all industries. And we provide a stage for you to gain timely, relevant information that ties to the success of your business and our region.
Celebrate our region at the Alternating Currents festival
August 17, 2022
The Alternating Currents festival is a celebration of our region and its creativity and quirky originality. It spotlights who we are and why we choose to live here. And it continues to grow and garner crowds of visitors who come to experience the spirit of the QC. The 2022 Alternating Currents festival will showcase 120+ live music and comedy performances, film screenings and art-related events from Thursday to Sunday, Aug. 18-21, at more than 25 indoor and outdoor venues in downtown Davenport and Rock Island.
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