Illinois is forging a closer collaboration between its universities, representatives, and business community to pursue the billions of dollars in federal research and economic development funding soon to be available.
“I am honored to have been appointed by Governor Pritzker to the Innovate Illinois Coalition, and the Chicagoland Chamber looks forward to working with our partners across the state to accelerate innovation and entrepreneurship. By leveraging the strengths of our diverse business community and academic institutions, we can drive economic growth, create new jobs, and help Chicago remain a world-class hub for innovation.”
Jack Lavin, President and CEO of the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce
The Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce announced the appointment of its President and CEO Jack Lavin to Innovate Illinois, a coalition tasked with securing billions in federal research and development funding. The appointment by Governor Pritzker signals the crucial role of Chicago’s business community within a thriving economy.
The effort includes the participation of U.S. Senators Durbin and Duckworth and aims to secure competitive grant programs awarded to various municipalities. The Brookings Institution estimates that at least $80 billion is available. Illinois will race to catch up to other states that have already started working on proposals. The new grants require a level of cooperation not seen before. The Chamber’s involvement will help bring together the far reaches of Chicagoland’s business community.
Chamber CEO Jack Lavin responds, “I am honored to have been appointed by Governor Pritzker to the Innovate Illinois Coalition, and the Chicagoland Chamber looks forward to working with our partners across the state to accelerate innovation and entrepreneurship. By leveraging the strengths of our diverse business community and academic institutions, we can drive economic growth, create new jobs, and help Chicago remain a world-class hub for innovation.”
