IMEC Partners with Greater Wheeling Area Chamber of Commerce and Industry to Promote New Grant Program

The Illinois Manufacturing Excellence Center (IMEC) is proud to announce a new partnership with the Greater Wheeling Area Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Together, this collaboration will deliver resources, tools, and support to help Wheeling-area manufacturers strengthen operations, grow their businesses, and invest in their workforce.

Introducing the Cook County Manufacturing Reinvented Grant

One of the most exciting opportunities available through this partnership is the Cook County Manufacturing Reinvented Grant. Designed with direct input from over 1,000 local manufacturers, the program eliminates cost barriers for small and mid-sized manufacturers (less than 500 employees) who want to invest in growth and improvement projects.

Grant-supported projects include:

• Improving Operations – Streamlining processes and increasing efficiency
• Leadership & Strategy – Strengthening company direction and management practices
• Sales & Marketing – Expanding customer reach and driving business growth
• Workforce Training & Development – Building a stronger, more skilled team

Manufacturers can learn more and apply at www.ccmfg.org.

Beyond the Grant: Events and Resources

The partnership extends well beyond financial support. IMEC and the Greater Wheeling Area Chamber are co-hosting events on key industry topics. For example, the February Workforce Luncheon brought manufacturers together to hear expert insights and share ideas on workforce challenges and opportunities.

These events are designed to foster connection, knowledge sharing, and practical takeaways for manufacturers of all sizes. To explore upcoming opportunities, visit the IMEC Events page at www.imec.org/events.

About IMEC

IMEC is a trusted partner for Illinois manufacturers, offering hands-on improvement strategies to strengthen the state’s economy and workforce. In 2023 alone, IMEC:

• Assisted 2,500+ companies
• Helped create or retain 5,200+ jobs
• Delivered an aggregate impact of $650M to the Illinois economy

With seven offices statewide and a team of 48 full-time improvement specialists, IMEC is committed to ensuring that Illinois manufacturers not only succeed, but thrive.

For more information, visit www.imec.org.