Choose Boone County
Boone County is a Global Business Hub with world-class advantages in a business-friendly environment.
To learn more about Belvidere and Boone County, Illinois, fill out and submit our contact form, call us at 1-815-547-4252 or email us at info@growthdimensions.org. A member of our team will be happy to provide more information and answer questions.
Reasons to Choose Boone County, Illinois
Growth
Growth isn't just in our name, it's what we do.
Belvidere and Boone County is a well sought after community for business growth, with numerous businesses locating or expanding within its borders.
Since 2020, new and existing business projects in Boone County have retained and/or created 2,175 jobs and invested more than $600Million into the community. Projections indicate that over the next 5-6 years, there could be upwards of 5,000 new jobs created, in addition to more than $6Billion in capital investments, as a result of business retention and expansion.
Workforce & Education
Boone County has a skilled and available workforce.
Boone County attracts a workforce of more than 672,000 within a 30-mile radius, with more then 6 Million in a 60-mile radius. In addition, Boone County is home to Rock Valley College's Advanced Technology Center. This state-of-the-art campus provides the tools and resources needed to train skilled workers for today and tomorrow.
Our high schools have a combined graduation rate of 85%. In addition to general course work, these schools also offer:
- Career pathways, setting students on a path to career success through focused schedules and work experiences.
- College coursework is available to eligible high school juniors and seniors, allowing these students to simultaneously receive their high school diploma and Associate's Degree.
- High school students can also receive industry-recognized credentials
Boone County partners with local agencies, such as The Workforce Connection, to offset employee onboarding and training costs.
Location
We are located in the heart of the United States.
Located in the heart of the United States, Boone County offers quick access to rail, road and air. Our location provides for quick movement of shipments and receivables.
- Less than one (1) mile to major roads, including I-90, I-39 and US Route 20
- Two (2) International Airports within 60 minutes: Chicago-O'Hare and Chicago-Rockford International Airport , with Chicago-Midway and Milwaukee Mitchell International Airports within a 90 minute drive
- Access to Union Pacific Rail, with passenger rail slated to extend into Boone County
Incentives
Reduce risk and increase ROI.
Boone County and the State of Illinois offer numerous incentives to relocate and expand your business.
- Properties located within Belvidere-Boone County's Enterprise Zone may be eligible for sales tax exemptions on building materials, property tax abatements, discounts on building permits, and more.
- Boone County has a designated Opportunity Zone which offers investors a way to reinvest capital gains into distressed communities in exchange for a graduated series of incentives tied to long-term holdings.
View the Enterprise Zone and Opportunity Zone Map*
*Yellow overlay indicates Enterprise Zone. Red overlay indicated Opportunity Zone.
- The Reimagining Energy & Vehicles in Illinois (REV Illinois Act) offers highly-competitive incentives to expand in or relocate to Illinois, for companies in the Electric Vehicles (EV) and renewables sectors. Learn more about REV.
- Companies in Boone County and across Northern Illinois can apply to become a Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) or subzone through FTZ Rockford and the Greater Rockford Airport Authority. If approved, the business may see benefits to cash flow, supply-chain timelines and inventory control. Learn more about FTZ #176, HERE!
Quality of Life
Businesses and employees need a place they can call home.
Boone County is a true gem of the Midwest. With its rich history, agricultural heritage and business-friendly environment, the County sets the example of nature and industry successfully coexisting.
Its close proximity to major metropolitan areas, allows for quick access to unique shopping experiences, world-class dining and renowned sports and entertainment. Plus, with three major, international airports less than an hour away, you can be off on a great adventure or business trip without the stress of a long-distance drive.
The low cost of living, job opportunities, and eclectic shops & restaurants provide a comfortable environment in which to live, work and play.
Let Us Welcome You to Boone County!
Contact Growth Dimensions Economic Development to learn more.