Local economies matter.
From small business growth and new job opportunities to economic development and resilience, the health of our local economies drives our quality of life. Here are some ways Illinois researchers are impacting the economy.
Led by the iFAB Tech Hub, Central Illinois is emerging as a biomanufacturing powerhouse. By harnessing precision fermentation, iFAB creates zero-emission, high-value products from agricultural commodities — driving an industry poised to reach $200 billion by 2040 and generate one million jobs by 2030.
2,000+
The number of people employed by the Illinois Research Park.
120
The number of companies that reside at the Research Park, from global brands to local startups.
800
The number of students who gain work experience interning for companies in the Research Park.
Colorfil is an innovative air filter company that grew out of Illinois research in materials science and incubated in the Research Park. Now, the company employs more than 25 people and has nearly outgrown its Champaign-based facility, thanks to expanding partnerships with prominent online retailers for home improvement and pets.
Q&A: Richard Benton, Labor and employment relations researcher at Illinois
What do you enjoy about the Champaign-Urbana area?
This is a wonderful place to live. We have access to high quality cultural opportunities and resources nestled in a cohesive community where it’s easy to get to know your neighbors and make new friends.
Briefly describe your research.
Our research at the Illinois Climate Jobs Institute analyzes areas like economic impact and workforce development. We share our research insights with state government, community-based organizations, workers’ representatives, and the business community to inform how the state’s clean energy transition can best grow the economy and support community jobs.
What sparked your interest in this research?
I became interested in climate jobs research after I began to see the potential impacts on local communities and workers throughout the state. These are important policy challenges that call for high quality research based on principles of scientific rigor and transparency.
How do you hope your work impacts people?
Our work helps the state navigate a worker- and community-led clean energy transition. By highlighting the needs and concerns of local communities, community-based organizations, and workers, we help the people impacted by policies have a voice and success.
“Research at Illinois powers our local economy by creating jobs, supporting local businesses, and attracting investments. From healthcare and manufacturing to agriculture and clean energy, we see and feel the impact of Illinois research through innovation and new discoveries every day.”
Carly McCrory-McKay, Executive Director
Champaign County Economic Development Corporation
Did you know?
Crops like corn and soybeans can be converted into a range of high-value products with a process called biomanufacturing and precision fermentation. Central Illinois is the epicenter of this fast-growing industry, which is bringing good-paying jobs, more companies, and economic growth to our community.
