Manufacturing

Here’s why manufacturing companies of all sizes have found our region to be an excellent fit.

Superior central location

1-hour access to:

Quad Cities (IL/IA)

Rockford

2-hour access to:

Chicago

Madison, WI

Cedar Rapids, IA

Peoria, IL

Iowa City/Dubuque (IA)

Affordable, desirable sites

• Close to interstate
• Large parcels available
• Existing and shovel-ready sites
• Costs average $1-$3 less per square foot than in nearby areas
   

Access to intermodal transportation networks

• Interstate, rail, air and water access
• Within 45 minutes of two intermodal hubs

Skilled labor force—and lower labor costs

• Extensive manufacturing experience
• Excellent work ethic
• Wages typically lower than in metro areas
• Broad variety of training programs available to quickly bring workers up to speed

Business- and employee-friendly

• Pro-active approach to meeting business needs
• Pro-business incentive programs and tax abatements
• Affordable cost of living
• High quality of life
• The benefits of small city living with access to big city amenities

Top Industry Employers Include: