Welcome to Greater Peoria, a five county region in central Illinois anchored by the city of Peoria. Greater Peoria boasts a vibrant, big city lifestyle with a small town feel. With stunning riverfronts, vibrant downtowns, a strong manufacturing core, and an innovative history and workforce, the region in the heart of Illinois sets itself apart with a growing and diverse economy. Whether you are looking to find a new and welcoming community to call home or a conducive environment to start, grow, and expand your business, the region named the most affordable mid-sized community in the United States by AdvisorSmith provides a place and abundant opportunities for you and your family.
Your business will never find a region as welcoming and helpful as Greater Peoria. Find all current economic and community data resources you will need for growing your business. Why Greater Peoria? Because we make it easy for you to join a business community that is primed for resilient growth in a strategically desirable location.
Build the life you want in a region full of possibilities. By providing a truly urban center experience, small town community, and solitude in rural contexts, Greater Peoria gives you the luxury of choosing life at your own pace. Grab a bite in a vibrant downtown and then drive ten minutes to enjoy the natural beauty of our river bluffs or countryside. Your daily commute will never be the same: experience less traffic and more living in Greater Peoria.
The Greater Peoria EDC partners with employers, educational institutions, and social service agencies to build a robust and equitable talent pipeline. We are prepared to outfit your business with the talent you need to find success in the emerging global economy.
We are custodians to The Big Table Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS). Built over a two year period of hosting conversations with our diverse communities and building partnerships with numerous stakeholders, the Big Table CEDS guides our common work of making the region a great place to live, work and play—for everyone. Dive into why the National Association of Development Organizations lists our CEDS as Best Practice for Equity and Inclusion.
At the heart of Greater Peoria is a thriving healthcare industry, anchored by established institutions and supported by innovative startups and research. Our healthcare industry, ranked as the 6th midsize healthcare hub in the country by Business Facilities, employs over 30,000 people in the region. Innovation, quality and affordability are the hallmarks of our healthcare industry.
As a midsize metro, we take the needs of our existing and startup businesses very seriously. The companies that are located here benefit from a highly collaborative and supportive business community. We will partner with you throughout your business journey from inception to scaling. Our dedication to our region’s companies ensures their growth and resiliency.
The Greater Peoria region has long been known for its manufacturing prowess. From our early days as the “Whiskey Capital of the World,” to the vital role in developing the mass production process for penicillin during WWII, to the growth of Caterpillar as the world-leader in earth movers and now the emergence of Jump Trade Simulation and our burgeoning biomedical research hub, we continue to evolve. Supported by our manufacturing and medical ecosystems and a community of supportive resources, Greater Peoria is well-positioned to become a biomedical manufacturing leader in the Midwest.
Familiarize yourself with the Greater Peoria Region. Explore our attractions and businesses.
We are here to help. Whether you need economic data to help expand your business or need business assistance or resources to help you make a relocation decision, the Greater Peoria EDC is here for you. Contact us today.
