McHenry County College Partners with McHenry County Economic Development Corporation to Expand Business Support with On-Site Location

[December 13, 2024. Crystal Lake, IL] McHenry County College (MCC) announced today that the McHenry County Economic Development Corporation (MCEDC) will be establishing an on-site location at the College beginning in January, working alongside the Illinois Small Business Development Center (ISBDC). The collaboration brings together two organizations dedicated to fostering local business success and economic growth.

“We are thrilled to welcome the McHenry County Economic Development Corporation to our campus,” said MCC President Dr. Clint Gabbard. “This partnership strengthens our shared mission to equip businesses with the education, expertise, and support they need to succeed, ensuring a vibrant and resilient local economy for years to come.”

The MCEDC is a public/private partnership that collaborates with industry, government, and community stakeholders to foster relationships, build networks, and act as a liaison between public and private sectors.

The ISBDC offers a range of services to support local businesses, including no-cost, one-on-one business advising, assistance with business plan development, access to market information, and financial analysis and planning. They also provide workshops and timely courses on topics such as business planning, personnel management, operations, and strategic planning techniques.

“Co-locating the McHenry County EDC and the IL Small Business Development Center at MCC creates a powerhouse of resources and collaboration that will drive growth and innovation,” said Mark Piekos, executive director of the MCEDC. “Streamlining access to resources and fostering connections with key stakeholders ensures our county’s businesses receive the tailored support they need to succeed. Together, we will have a significant positive impact on McHenry County’s strong economy."

Bringing both organizations under one roof allows McHenry County businesses to benefit from a more cohesive economic development strategy. By aligning goals, MCEDC and ISBDC will support sustainable growth and address local priorities such as job creation and infrastructure. The collaboration also helps to create more targeted and effective policies, enabling businesses to scale, navigate challenges, and expand into broader markets. Ultimately, the partnership strengthens the long-term success of businesses and boosts the economy of McHenry County.

To contact the ISBDC at McHenry County College, email sbdc@mchenry.edu. To contact the MCEDC, visit www.mchenrycountyedc.com or email info@mcedc.com.