In business, we understand a simple truth: growth depends on people. Talent, entrepreneurs, and investment follow opportunity—but just as importantly, they follow communities where they feel they can belong.
Across Illinois, that idea is not just a value—it’s a strategy for economic growth. Communities that are welcoming to newcomers and open to people with different backgrounds are consistently positioned to compete more effectively for jobs, investment, and long-term prosperity.
We see this play out clearly in statewide data. Illinois’ business environment benefits from a broad range of entrepreneurs and workers. For example, the LGBTQ+ community alone represents an estimated 446,000 adults statewide, including more than 326,000 workers contributing to the labor force. These individuals are not just residents—they are job creators, consumers, and innovators. Certified LGBTQ-owned businesses across the country have generated approximately 33,000 jobs and contribute an estimated $1.15 billion to the U.S. economy.
Here in Stephenson County, we don’t have to look far to see how this plays out. When new residents move into our community—whether they come for a job, to start a business, or to raise a family—their first experience matters. When they feel welcomed, they are more likely to stay, invest, and become part of the fabric of our local economy.
At the Greater Freeport Partnership, our focus remains straightforward: strengthen the local economy and create an environment where businesses can grow. One of the most practical ways to do that is to ensure that people—no matter where they come from or what they look like—see Freeport and Stephenson County as a place where they can succeed.
Because when more people choose to invest here, stay here, and build here, our entire business community benefits. A strong community is not only the right thing to build—it’s a smart economic strategy.
Andrea Schultz Winter is the executive director of the Greater Freeport Partnership. She can be reached at awinter@greaterfreeport.com or 815-233-1354.
