5 Myths About Economic Development in the Jacksonville Region

Economic development shapes business decisions, workforce access, housing, and long-term investment. Still, many people are unsure about what economic development organizations actually do or how they work.

Some people think economic development is just about bringing in big employers. Others believe it’s only about incentives or industrial sites. Many small business owners don’t realize these organizations also offer tools and guidance to help local businesses grow.

These ideas overlook the bigger role economic development has in the region’s economy. 

Since 1964, the Jacksonville Regional Economic Development Corporation has helped create, keep, grow, and attract jobs in Morgan and Scott counties. JREDC supports bringing in new businesses, developing the workforce, encouraging entrepreneurship, redeveloping areas, and improving the quality of life to keep the region competitive.​

JREDC partners with site selectors, local governments, employers, educators, and entrepreneurs to solve problems and support long-term growth.

Here are five common myths about economic development, along with the real story of what’s happening in the Jacksonville region.

Myth 1: Economic Development Only Focuses on Recruiting New Companies

Big company announcements often get the most attention. New buildings and job numbers are easy to measure and share. This focus can make it seem like economic development is only about recruiting new businesses.

JREDC also works to help existing businesses grow and stay in the region.

Most jobs come from companies already here. Local employers often expand, invest in their facilities, hire more people, and add new services. JREDC supports these efforts by staying in touch and reaching out directly to employers.

JREDC helps businesses solve problems before they slow down growth. This includes workforce issues, building needs, permit questions, and coordinating infrastructure.

JREDC also connects businesses with tools and programs to help them grow, such as:

• Enterprise Zone incentives
• Tax abatement programs
• Workforce resources
• Site and property information
• State and regional grant opportunities

This support helps businesses stay competitive and keeps jobs stable in the region over time.

Myth 2: Economic Development Only Benefits Large Employers

Small businesses are a big part of the local economy. They create jobs, fill storefronts, offer services, and boost local investment.

JREDC partners with entrepreneurs and small business owners all across the Jacksonville region.

We help with startups, redevelopment projects, and business expansions. JREDC also joins Jacksonville Main Street Economic Vitality meetings and works with entrepreneurs looking for retail, office, or commercial space.

Small businesses can access support such as:

• Market and demographic data
• Available properties and buildings
• Financing and incentive information
• Workforce and labor market data
• Regional economic trends

During the pandemic, JREDC helped businesses find and apply for grants and loans. By working with local and state partners, businesses in Morgan, Scott, and Cass counties received over $4 million in grant funding.

Economic development organizations often act as connectors. They help business owners find resources, understand local processes, and connect with the right partners.

Myth 3: Economic Development Stops at Sites and Buildings

Industrial parks and commercial properties are still important, but economic development is about more than just land and buildings.

Quality of life directly affects business investment and attracting workers.

When choosing a location, site selectors and employers look at more than just available property. They also consider housing, healthcare, broadband, education, transportation, and community amenities.

JREDC teams up with regional partners to improve these conditions throughout Morgan and Scott counties.

Broadband expansion remains another priority. Fiber broadband installation throughout the region supports businesses, remote workers, education, and healthcare access.

These investments improve residents' daily lives and help employers attract and retain workers.

Myth 4: Economic Development Operates Separately From Workforce Development

Almost every industry faces workforce challenges. Employers need skilled workers, training options, and reliable labor data before they decide to invest.

JREDC works closely with workforce and education partners to meet these needs.

JREDC teams up with the Jacksonville Area Chamber of Commerce on workforce projects and talent pipeline strategies, such as Make My Move. JREDC also works with Illinois College and Lincoln Land Community College to help align workforce skills and development.​
This teamwork helps employers find training options and creates pathways for students and job seekers.

JREDC also shares local job opportunities through its online resources. Employers can post openings, and job seekers can find regional career options all in one place.

Attracting talent is also part of the plan. JREDC invests in marketing and digital outreach to bring more workers and entrepreneurs to the region.

Workforce development and economic development depend on each other. Businesses cannot grow without workers, and communities cannot grow without employment opportunities.

Myth 5: Economic Development Produces Immediate Results

Economic development projects often take years to finish. Preparing sites, coordinating infrastructure, arranging financing, planning for the workforce, and getting permits all require long-term effort.

Results may not show up right away, but the work that leads to them happens every day.
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JREDC follows a long-term plan for regional development that focuses on:

• Business attraction
• Business retention and expansion
• Entrepreneurship
• Workforce development
• Property development
• Community engagement
• Economic diversification

JREDC also keeps property databases current, answers business questions, supports redevelopment, and works with both public and private partners.

Consistency is key for economic development. Businesses look for reliable information, responsive partners, and communities ready for new investments. Being prepared helps avoid delays and gives companies more confidence when they consider the Jacksonville region.

Contact JREDC About Your Next Project

If you’re expanding a business, looking at sites, starting a company, or considering investing in the Jacksonville region, JREDC can connect you with data, properties, workforce resources, and local partners.

JREDC works with businesses at every stage and continues to support long-term economic growth in Morgan and Scott counties.

To learn more about available properties, workforce data, incentives, or regional business resources, contact the Jacksonville Regional Economic Development Corporation.