Adams County, IL (October 5, 2026) — The Great River Economic Development Foundation (GREDF) is launching the second year of ScaleUp and Secure, an investment opportunity designed to connect local entrepreneurs with capital, resources, and support to help grow scalable businesses throughout Adams and Hancock counties.

The program is open to businesses and entrepreneurs located in Adams and Hancock counties with innovative ideas, scalable business models, strong leadership teams, significant market opportunities, and well-developed business plans.

ScaleUp and Secure is not a grant program. It is an investment opportunity designed to connect qualified businesses with investors seeking opportunities to support companies positioned for growth. Applicants should clearly identify their funding needs and demonstrate how an investment would be used to support the growth of their business.

ScaleUp and Secure addresses one of the most critical challenges facing growing businesses: access to capital. The program supports the regional entrepreneurial ecosystem and together, these efforts emphasize the importance of supporting high-potential businesses, strengthening the local workforce, and encouraging investment that contributes to long-term regional economic growth.

“ScaleUp and Secure is more than just a business development initiative; it represents a strategic step toward building a stronger, more innovative, and resilient local economy,” said Madison Peters, Vice President of the Great River Economic Development Foundation. “We believe in the power of local innovation and the potential of our entrepreneurial community. ScaleUp and Secure represents our dedication to empowering businesses to expand, generate jobs, and invest in the future of our region.”

Applications will be accepted October 5^th through November 23^rd. Following the application period, submissions will be evaluated through multiple stages, with participating entrepreneurs receiving coaching and guidance throughout the process. Businesses that advance through the program will have the opportunity to pitch their ventures to investors interested in supporting companies ready to scale.

To learn more about ScaleUp and Secure or submit an application, visit gredf.org/scaleup-and-secure or contact Madison Peters, Vice President of GREDF, at 217-919-6238.

QUINCY, IL — October is National Manufacturing Month, a time to recognize the critical role manufacturing plays in driving innovation, creating good-paying careers and strengthening communities. In the Tri-State region, manufacturing is an important part of the local economy, and connecting students with these career opportunities is essential to building the workforce of tomorrow.

That connection was on display Friday, October 2, as approximately 250 high school juniors and seniors participated in the 2026 Tri-State MakerFest, hosted at the John Wood Community College Workforce Development Center and area manufacturing facilities.

MakerFest is a partnership between the Great River Economic Development Foundation (GREDF), John Wood Community College (JWCC), and Quincy Area Vocational & Technical Center (QAVTC). The event gave students a firsthand look at careers in manufacturing, logistics and the skilled trades, while connecting them with local employers, educators and training opportunities.

Students toured manufacturing environments and the JWCC Workforce Development Center, learning about the technology, skills and education behind today’s careers. Opportunities span production, maintenance, electrical work, technology, logistics and other skilled occupations.

“Manufacturing continues to be an important part of our regional economy, and MakerFest gives students an opportunity to see firsthand the careers and technologies available right here in our community,” said Kyle Moore, President of GREDF. “Connecting students with local manufacturers and training opportunities helps them understand the many pathways available after high school while also helping employers build the workforce they need for the future.”

MakerFest is part of a broader regional effort to strengthen connections among students, educators and employers. Through workforce initiatives and partnerships, GREDF and its regional partners are working to develop the talent pipeline and help local businesses attract and retain the skilled workers they need to grow.