4 I N T E R S E C T IL L I N OI SC O NT E NT S INTERSECTILLINOIS2018 | siteselection.com/cc/illinois 10 Business Climate OverviewThe worlds of business and success intersect in Illinois. 16 Interview With Gov. RaunerGov. Bruce Rauner is on a mission to cut red tape and improve the overall business climate in his state. 18 Interview With Mark PetersonAs president and CEO of Intersect Illinois, Mark Peterson has what it takes to see businesses succeed. 20 Cover Story: InterconnectednessIllinois’ business momentum is reaching around the globe and landing billions in investments across the state. 26 Global ConnectivityAs one of the most globally connected places in the country, O’Hare International Airport is making it easier to fly in and out of the Prairie State. 30 Headquarters ActivityDowntown Chicago is the place to be for the world’s biggest companies and those that aim to be. 32 Statistical ProfileSee the Land of Lincoln through the lens of facts and figures. 38 Community ProfilesFrom rural towns and suburbs to large metros, communities around the state offer ample opportunities for businesses. 46 Talent Development Helping the next wave of talent reach their potential is a key motivation for Illinois’ massive new initiative. INTERSECTILLINOIS6 I N T E R S E C T IL L I N OI S 48 ApprenticeshipsIllinois is taking a cue from European apprenticeship models. 52 Higher EducationStudents from around the world ock to the Prairie State to study at Illinois universities. 56 EntrepreneurshipGet the inside scoop on one of Chicago’s most promising startups, Peanut Butter. 58 PharmaceuticalsChicago and Illinois are powerful magnets for the pharmaceutical industry. 62 AgricultureAs a top state for agriculture, Illinois o ers opportunities for businesses to grow. 64 Food Production Illinois has an appetite for seeing food producers succeed. 66 Advanced ManufacturingSkilled workers and resources ramp up production in Illinois. 70 SportsSome of the greatest all-time sport heroes call the Land of Lincoln home. 72 Quality of LifeIllinois o ers a quality of life and opportunities that simply can’t be beat. 76 Photo GalleryA glimpse of all the beautiful Prairie State has to o er. 80 Index to AdvertisersNext >