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About the Partnership

Greater Freeport Partnership Mission

About the Partnership

One organization. One voice. One mission:
To grow Freeport & Stephenson County.

Our Mission

The Greater Freeport Partnership is a catalyst for dynamic economic growth fostering an inclusive environment where businesses thrive, and our community prospers. We are dedicated to nurturing new opportunities while enriching the fabric of Freeport and Stephenson County.

Our Vision

The Partnership strives to be the driving force for a prosperous future where strategic economic solutions ignite opportunity for growth. We envision a thriving life for our residents that embraces diversity and upholds a strong business community. Our relentless commitment to our community’s well-being and economic success sets us on a path to create a dynamic and inclusive Freeport and Stephenson County.

Inclusion Statement

The Greater Freeport Partnership is committed to promoting equity, celebrating diversity, and creating a culture of belonging in Freeport and Stephenson County.

What is the Partnership?

The Greater Freeport Partnership is the place where organizations and people unite to tell the story of our region, drive economic growth, and champion a talented, workforce-ready community. The non-profit organization provides business, tourism and economic development services to members in Stephenson County to help them grow, adapt and thrive through educational programming, networking and resource sharing.

Our History

The Greater Freeport Partnership promotes Stephenson County and support businesses.  We accomplish these goals through workforce development, marketing, beautification, business education and providing data resources.

Our history:  In June 2018, four organizations became one: Northwest Illinois Development Alliance – NIDA, Freeport Area Chamber of Commerce, Freeport Downtown Development Foundation, and Freeport/Stephenson County Convention & Visitors Bureau / Visitors Center. The focus: create a seamless economic development, business services and tourism entity focused on providing outstanding service to those looking to start a business, grow a business and visit the area.

Funding comes from the City of Freeport, Stephenson County, partner investors and members.  Revenue is also generated through co-op advertising programs, grants and revenue from events.

The Greater Freeport Partnership board includes members of the Freeport and Stephenson County business community, the Freeport City Manager, Stephenson County Board Chair, and representatives from Highland Community College and Freeport School District.

Quarterly Reports

We are the Greater Freeport Partnership

Key Industries

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Healthcare

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Construction, Plumbing, Heating, & Service

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Private Label Food Manufacturing

Calendar Feed

Blog Feed

Celebrating Hispanic Businesses for Hispanic Heritage Month October 9, 2024 Greater Freeport Partnership está comprometida a promover la equidad, celebrar la diversidad y crear una cultura de pertenencia en Freeport y el condado de Stephenson. Del 15 de septiembre al 15 de octubre se conmemora el Mes de la Herencia Hispana y el impacto de la cultura hispana en nuestras comunidades. Como organización de desarrollo empresarial para Freeport y el […]
Manufacturing in Stephenson County is an Opportunity for Students October 3, 2024 freeport il, greater freeport partnership, Stephenson County October is National Manufacturing Month. Throughout the month, you will see information regarding economic impact, business spotlights, and promotion of this vital industry. Manufacturing has long been a cornerstone of Stephenson County’s economy. From producing essential goods to driving local employment, the industry plays a crucial role in sustaining the region’s economic growth.    As of recent years, manufacturing has […]
Taking the Bait with a Tourism Event September 27, 2024 Freeport, greater freeport partnership, Stephenson County Did you make it to the Northwest Illinois Air Show this past Saturday? If you did, you weren’t alone! The air show brought more than 1,800 people to the Freeport Albertus Airport to enjoy aerial acrobatics, stunt teams, and other high-flying acts. More importantly, 50 percent of those who attended the air show traveled from outside of Stephenson County. What […]
The Importance of Upper-Floor Redevelopment in Downtown Areas September 20, 2024 downtown, Freeport, greater freeport partnership, Stephenson County In many historic downtowns, the upper floors of commercial buildings often remain unused or underutilized. However, transforming these spaces into modern housing units is a vital step toward revitalizing urban centers and driving economic growth. For communities like Freeport, upper-floor redevelopment not only preserves historic architecture but also brings much-needed housing into the heart of the city.  Creating residential spaces […]