Boone County Illinois: A Global Business Hub
Make Your Mark on a Thriving Community
Boone County, Illinois is experiencing historic commercial and industrial growth. World-renowned companies see the value in developing or expanding within the county. Now is the perfect time for businesses to come to Boone County and make their mark on a thriving community.
Learn about some of the opportunities taking shape in Boone County.
Microsoft Data Center
Microsoft has announced a $250 million investment in Cherry Valley to develop a state-of-the-art data center on 300 acres. Construction of six buildings will begin next year, creating 300 new jobs for the region. The project has already earned national recognition, being named Non-Manufacturing Project of the Year by Area Development, while Illinois received the 2025 Silver Shovel Award for its success in job creation and investment. This milestone further positions our region as a hub for technology and innovation, drawing high-tech investment and generating long-term opportunities.
Midwest Refrigeration Services Long Term Growth
Midwest Refrigeration Services has invested over $250 million in Belvidere, creating 85 jobs through a new 200,000-square-foot cold storage facility and a retrofitted 100,000-square-foot building—marking the start of their long-term growth in the community.
Stellantis Commits to Nearly $5 Billion Investment in Boone County
In October 2023, Stellantis committed to retooling the Belvidere Assembly Plant for the production of a new vehicle. In addition, they will be adding a battery plant and parts distribution center. The commitment drew national attention and brought President Biden to Belvidere, Illinois on November 9, 2023, where a celebratory rally was held.
Walmart Selects Boone County for New High-Tech Perishable Distribution Center
Walmart broke ground in October 2023 on a 1.2 million square-foot high-tech perishable distribution center (PDC) in Belvidere, Illinois. The new facility is set to open in 2027 and will create new tech-powered jobs. Associates who fill the positions will utilize state-of-the-art technology to handle fresh produce, eggs, dairy, flowers and frozen goods for delivery to nearby Walmart stores.
Where Business Makes Sense
In the heart of the United States' midwest, you'll find Boone County, Illinois. A business-friendly environment with global opportunities, Boone County is minutes away from four international airports, offers direct access to U.S. road systems and provides reliable rail access. Its close proximity to major metropolitan areas, such as Rockford and Chicago, connects employers and employees to an unlimited amount of resources and amenities.
Boone County attracts a workforce of more than 780,000 within a 45 minute drive. In addition, the Rock Valley College Advanced Technology Center is located within the County and offers skilled trades training to the current and future workforce.
The unassuming nature of local residents and workers is a welcome change from the environments experienced in most large cities. With a low crime rate, regionally low taxes and two excellent public school systems, Boone County easily coexists with industry, agriculture and small businesses.
Choose Your Next Location
Whether you're business is looking to build from the ground up or ready to occupy a pre-existing building, Growth Dimensions Economic Development has you covered. You can also view current available sites, by clicking on the link below.
Tell Us Your Needs
We can find locations that will meet your individual business needs and put you in contact with the right people to complete your site search. Simply send us what your needs are and we'll do the leg work.
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Incentives, Opportunities, and Advantages
Tax Rates & Enterprise Zone
Location Advantages
Boone County offers endless advantages for employers and employees, such as low commuting times, proximity to airports and our road system.
Infrastructure
Boone County offers sites that are shovel ready and those that are ready for you to customize. Our local utility partners and muncipalities are here to meet your business' individual needs.
