ScaleUp & Secure

October 6, 2025

The Great River Economic Development Foundation Launches Program to Help Businesses Scale and Secure Their Future

Adams County, IL (Oct. 6, 2025) – Applications are now open for ScaleUp and Secure, a program by the Great River Economic Development Foundation (GREDF) aimed at connecting entrepreneurs with capital and support to grow scalable ventures. The program, targets businesses and entrepreneurs located in Adams County with innovative ideas, scalable business models, strong leadership teams, significant market opportunities, and well-developed business plans.

The mission of ScaleUp and Secure is to empower entrepreneurs by addressing the critical challenge of securing capital. The program supports the startup ecosystem in alignment with the Quincy Next Strategic Plan, enhancing the local labor market through the development of high-potential businesses and facilitating capital investment to boost the regional economy.

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.

“We believe in the power of local innovation and the potential of our entrepreneurial community,” said Madison Peters, Vice President of the Great River Economic Development Foundation. “ScaleUp and Secure represents our dedication to empowering businesses to expand, generate jobs, and invest in the future of Adams County.”

Once applications close on December 16th, each submission will be evaluated and coached through multiple stages to determine which businesses will be invited to pitch to investors. The program is designed to be more than just a funding opportunity; it is a comprehensive support system focused on fostering the growth and development of local businesses. Selected applicants will have the opportunity to showcase their business to investors eager to fund businesses ready to scale up.

ScaleUp and Secure is part of the Great River Economic Development Foundation’s ongoing investment in sustainable economic development, to support high-growth entrepreneurs and fostering a vibrant, inclusive business ecosystem. To learn more about the program and submit an application, interested parties are encouraged to visit the website or contact Madison Peters, Vice President of GREDF, at 217-919-6238.

Community Invited to Open House at New Home for Chamber, The District, and GREDF

August 12, 2025

Quincy, IL — The Quincy Area Chamber of Commerce, The District, and the Great River Economic
Development Foundation (GREDF) are inviting the community to celebrate the grand opening of their
shared home at 501 Hampshire with an Open House on Thursday, August 28, from 4:00–6:00 p.m.
The newly remodeled space represents a major step forward in collaboration between three
cornerstone organizations dedicated to driving business growth, economic vitality, and community
development in the Quincy area.

“This project has been a long time coming,” said Bruce Guthrie, President/CEO of the Quincy Area
Chamber of Commerce. “Having our organizations together under one roof makes it easier to work side- by-side, share ideas, and find new ways to help businesses grow, support entrepreneurs, and make our community an even better place to live and work.”

The move to 501 Hampshire is more than just a change of address. It creates a centralized space for
communication, collaboration, and innovation — all in the heart of downtown Quincy.
Brianna Rivera, Executive Director of The District, noted, “Being together in one building allows us to
share resources and ideas in real time, which means we can better serve our downtown, our business
owners, and our community events. It’s an exciting new chapter for Quincy.”

Kyle Moore, President of GREDF, added, “Economic Development thrives when business support, community planning, and growth strategies are connected. Our new shared home strengthens those connections and positions us to make an even greater impact on the local economy.”

The Open House Celebration will include building tours, refreshments, networking, and the opportunity
to meet the teams behind these three organizations. A ribbon-cutting ceremony will highlight the event
and symbolize the start of this new era of collaboration.

Event Details:
What: Open House Celebration for 501 Hampshire
When: Thursday, August 28, 2025 | 4:00–6:00 p.m.
Where: 501 Hampshire, Quincy, IL
Cost: Free & open to the public

City of Quincy and Partners Seek Land Proposals for Regional Sports Complex

August 11, 2025

Quincy, IL – The City of Quincy, in collaboration with the Quincy Sports Commission and the
Great River Economic Development Foundation (GREDF), is now accepting site proposals from
property owners and representatives for land to be considered for the development of a new
regional sports complex.

The complex is envisioned as a hub for community recreation, youth sports, regional
tournaments, and economic development. It may include both indoor and outdoor facilities and
serve as a long-term asset for tourism and quality of life in the Tri-State region.

Proposal Submission Details
GREDF will be accepting sealed and electronic site proposals beginning today, August 11,
through 4:00 PM on September 25, 2025. Sites ranging from 5 to 55 acres will be considered,
with a preference for locations that offer build-ready terrain, utility access, and room for future
expansion.

Ideal sites should have appropriate zoning or be easily rezoned, be accessible, and minimize
environmental or topographical challenges. Proposals must include a legal property description,
site maps, zoning details, and purchase terms, among other criteria.

Selection Process
A subcommittee of the Quincy Sports Commission will evaluate proposals based on size,
location, cost, topography, and utility access. Top proposals may be invited to present to the full
commission, with a final site recommendation made to the Quincy City Council this fall.

A Vision for the Future
This RFP marks the first step in a multi-phase planning and development process that includes
site selection, facility design, operator selection, and construction planning throughout the next
year. The complex is expected to become a destination for both local residents and regional
visitors.

Electronic proposals should be submitted to gredf@gredf.org, and sealed proposals may be
mailed or delivered to:
Great River Economic Development Foundation
501 Hampshire Street
Quincy, IL 62301

GREDF Introduces New Recruitment Program

July 31, 2025

On Monday, the Great River Economic Development Foundation introduced the Quincy’s calling recruitment bonus program.

GREDF President Kyle Moore said Quincy and Adams County have a worker shortage. He said current residents can help solve that program by submitting the name and contact information for someone they think might want to move to Quincy.

“We at the Great River Economic Development Foundation will then reach out to that individual, see if they’re interested, and help remove any barriers they may have to move,” Moore said. “So, a lot of times when people are moving they need a job, they may need a place to live, they may need child care, and we’re essentially going to be facilitating that.”

If someone submits a name and they move to Adams County within two years, Moore said the submitter will then be eligible for a $500 incentive.

GREDF Vice President Madison Peters said there are many resources for new Quincy residents and hopes this program will help GREDF connect with some of those new residents.

“It’s intimidating to move to a new community and so our thought is if we can make it easy for them, help them integrate, they’re going to stay and we want our employers to be able to keep their employees as long as they can,” Peters said.

GREDF also hosts a Quincy concierge program. Peters said these programs are designed to help new residents get to know Quincy and find what they need to be successful here.

The new recruitment program is first come, first serve and is limited to 10 families. Names can be submitted at quincyscalling.com.

John Wood’s second year FAME cohort signs on with several local manufacturing companies

June 17, 2025

By Clare Edlund

Published: Jun. 11, 2025 at 8:22 PM CDT

QUINCY (WGEM) – It’s been a little over a year since a local college launched a program to help students advance their careers in a whole new way.

The Federation of Advanced Manufacturing Education, better known as FAME, is an apprenticeship program that partners John Wood Community College Workforce Development students with Tri-State manufacturing companies so they can attend school and work on-site, better preparing them for their careers.

On Wednesday, 10 students sat with their new employers to sign a letter of intent before they strap on their boots and start their careers.

What’s unique about Great River FAME is that there’s no waiting around until graduation to find work. From the get-go, students are immersed in both their education and work simultaneously as they attend classes three days a week and train at their company twice a week.

“Our FAME program that we joined and started last year, we have our second cohort going through,” said John Welker, JWCC dean of Business and Industrial Effectiveness.

Employers at Wednesday’s signing will take their apprentices under their wing and show them the ropes.

“We need to ensure that our team members have a focus on safety,” said Kate Hatem-Pritchett, ADM’s complex manager.

Hatem-Pritchett said this will be ADM’s first time joining the chapter.

“We really see this as a path for them to be both electrical and maintenance technicians,” Hatem-Pritchett said. “And the function behind how all of our equipment works.”

Other companies that established themselves in FAME last year said FAME is a mutually beneficial partnership. Especially with the dozens of new jobs that would come from their Old El Paso expansion.

“This is giving us a skilled workforce that we are lacking right now,” said Jacey Crane, General Mills learning leader. “And it’s really opening the doors for everybody in the program.”

The students will also get paid for the hours they work.

The companies partnered with this FAME cohort include:

Titan Wheel
Knapheide
Gardner-Denver
Dot Foods
ADM
General Mills

Career Guidance Team recognizes local teachers

May 14, 2025

Saylor Drawe Denise Presser

QUINCY (Quincy Herald-Whig) — The Adams County Career Guidance Team is recognizing two teachers as part of National Teacher Appreciation Week.

The Career Guidance Team selected Saylor Drawe, a third grade teacher from Baldwin Elementary School in Quincy, and Denise Presser, a middle school teacher at Unity Middle School in Mendon, who were chosen from a pool of nominations across both public and parochial schools in the county.

The team said both stood out for their commitment to preparing students for life beyond the classroom. From integrating career readiness into everyday lessons to forging connections with local employers, their dedication is helping shape the future of our workforce. The teachers were recognized Tuesday with gifts, donated by local businesses and organizations.

Drawe was recognized for making a lasting impact by preparing her students for the future in an engaging and meaningful way. Throughout the school year, she integrates real-world learning into her classroom through creative transformations that not only teach academic concepts but also expose students to a variety of career paths.

Whether she’s turning her classroom into a bustling coffee shop, a lively carnival or a fully functioning kitchen, Drawe uses these immersive experiences to help students develop essential life skills and explore potential careers.

Presser was recognized for helping her students envision and prepare for their futures through personalized guidance and intentional planning. Presser’s classroom goes beyond traditional instruction, focusing on real-world application and long-term success for every student.

Each student completes a research paper focused on a career they are interested in pursuing after graduation — ranging from hands-on trades like construction and mechanics to professional fields such as veterinary medicine. These projects not only strengthen research and writing skills but also encourage students to begin thinking critically about their goals and how to achieve them.

In addition to classroom assignments, Presser meets individually with each of her students to discuss their post-high school plans. Together, they explore whether college, trade school, or a certification program is the right path.

The Career Guidance Team will host its Career Launch Signing Day on Tuesday at John Wood Community College’s Workforce Development Center to honor eight talented students from JWCC and Quincy Area Vocational Technical Center who are kicking off their careers with local employers.

These students have landed positions with some of the region’s major employers — Blessing Health System, Sharkey Transportation, Sunset Home, Gem City Ford, Smith Brothers Honda and Quincy Tractor — and will be celebrated for choosing to grow their futures right here at home. Surrounded by family, educators and employers, each student will sign a Work-Ready Pledge, a symbolic promise to excel in the workplace. They’ll also receive a commemorative certificate recognizing their achievement and commitment.

The Adams County Career Guidance Team is made up of partners from Great River Economic Development Foundation, the Illinois Workforce Innovation Board, JWCC, QAVTC, Junior Achievement, area school counselors and local employers, with the mission to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and inspiration to explore and pursue the wide variety of careers available in our region.

Career Launch Signing Day 2025

May 14, 2025

Quincy, Illinois (KHQA) — Eight students from John Wood Community College participated in an athlete-like signing day on Tuesday, but with their future employers.

The day highlighted students who are committing to work full-time with a local business.

Sitting in between their future employer and Quincy Mayor Dr. Linda Moore, each student signed a pledge and received a certificate to celebrate this milestone.

“When you make a commitment to excellence and make a commit to stay local and work with our local companies, the city of Quincy wins. So, to all of our students, thank you,” said Dr. Moore.

The students signed with six different local businesses: Sharkey Transportation; Blessing Health System; Gem City Ford; Sunset Home; Quincy Tractor; and Smith Brothers Honda.

“I’m absolutely ecstatic. It feels like it’s been ages, but it’s only been about three years total for me to get to this point, and I feel all my hard work paying off. And I’m just so excited to see all my classmates move up to next level with me,” said Makenna Post, who is signing with Blessing Health System to be a registered nurse in the emergency department.

The Adams County Board Announces Round Two of the GROW Program

March 31, 2025

Adams County, IL – The Great River Economic Development Foundation (GREDF), in partnership with the Adams County Board, is thrilled to announce that applications are now being accepted for the second round of the Adams County GROW Program.

In 2024, the Adams County Board designated $1 million from the ARPA funds to establish the GROW Program, which stands for Growing Residential Opportunities County-Wide Program, aimed at addressing housing needs. This initiative encourages developers to take abandoned houses or vacant lots into affordable housing. In its initial round, the program successfully funded 57 new housing units, distributing a total of $640,000 through the GROW Program.

In the second round, a total of $360,000 is available to provide developers with $20,000 non-repayment loans per unit. The project may involve constructing new residential units on vacant lots, which can include single-family homes, duplexes, condos, townhouses, cluster homes, or apartment complexes. Additionally, the development of currently uninhabitable or partially uninhabitable structures will be accepted. However, the GROW Program incentive cannot surpass 50% of the total project cost or $100,000, whichever amount is lower.

Anyone interested in learning more about the GROW Program, and to apply, please visit https://www.gredf.org/growing-residential-opportunities-county-wide-grow-fund/.

GREDF will be hosting two training sessions to review the program:

The first training will be on April 15th in the Oakley-Lindsay Center at 4 p.m.
The second training will be held on May 5^th at 12 p.m. on Zoom. If you are interested in obtaining the Zoom link, please email Madison Peters, GREDF Vice President at petersm@gredf.org.

Applications are due by 4 p.m. on June 17th. Applications can be sent via email to gredf@gredf.org; dropped off to the GREDF office, or sent via mail.

Career Spark STEAM Expo an ‘eye-opener’ for area students

March 20, 2025

QUINCY — Makayla Beaston thinks she wants a career in the medical field.

But talking with professionals from a wide array of career fields at the Career Spark STEAM Expo “has given me more ideas of different things,” the St. Peter eighth-grader said. “It gives us more of an eye-opener for what we’ll do when we’re older outside the classroom.”

Nearly 400 eighth-grade students from 11 area schools took part in Wednesday’s expo highlighting career paths available in science, technology, engineering, arts and math.

“We hope that students will have a better understanding of what is available around them as far as careers and a better idea of what they possibly want to do in the future,” said Taylor Rakers, district manager with Junior Achievement, which sponsored the expo with the Great River Economic Development Foundation and the Learning Technology Center.

The students, who potentially could be in the workforce before 2030, heard from representatives of 39 businesses divided into three career clusters in Quincy University’s Health and Fitness Center.

“It gives me a better opportunity to learn about some new stuff,” Payson eighth-grader Juston Casey said.

Mendon eighth-grader Addalyn Landwehr, who wants to be an ultrasound technician, focused on the health care professionals.

“It gives me a perspective on learning what I want to do for my job when I’m older,” she said.

Junior Achievement has offered career fairs since 2016, Rakers said, but Career Spark provided something different to students.

“The old ones were lecture-style format in a classroom setting. Business professionals would come in and tell about their careers,” he said. “With this format, they’re going to show the kids what they do for their career. We’re encouraging hands-on exhibits and activities so students can see, touch and feel versus being told.”

Blessed Sacrament eighth-grade Allison Lenane tried her hand at painting with a virtual reality system displayed by Knapheide.

While that may not be her career choice, “it was a good try to see what it would kind of be like,” said Allison, who leans toward working in hair or cosmetology.

The expo, she said, was equally good for students.

“It’s going to be good so I can see other opportunities I have to see if I’m interested in anything else,” she said.

“Anytime we get to get in front of kids and show them what’s out there and what’s possible, I think it’s really important,” said Travis Brown, chief business development officer with the Relish Jar, who talked with students.

SIU Center for Family Medicine residents encouraged students to test out a stethoscope and to take a look inside their ears.

“In the rural areas, there’s a big need for primary care doctors especially throughout West-Central and Southern Illinois. We are really working on trying to recruit kids early to understand the process of becoming a doctor,” said Dr. Owen Alford-Bichsel, a first-year resident born and raised in Quincy.

“The commitment to being a doctor is pretty big. Knowing that early on can help a lot of students. Maybe they’re the first in their family to become a doctor and don’t know how much schooling is involved, how much debt is involved. We’re kind of providing that information.”

Hamilton science teacher Haleigh Hempen-Bell hopes her students find something that interests them at the expo.

“With our junior high kids, I’m not expecting for them to have their life planned out, but it would be helpful for them to know an area they would like to go into so they can help narrow their direction down in high school,” Hempen-Bell said.

The expo aims to bridge the gap between education and employment by demonstrating how STEAM-related fields play a vital role in everyday life and the workforce.

“Career Spark is about sparking curiosity and helping students connect their classroom learning to real-world opportunities,” GREDF Director of Workforce and Community Development Cole Schwartz said.

By DEBORAH GERTZ HUSAR Herald-Whig Staff Writer dhusar@whig.com

Roundtable targets modern approach to labor shortage

March 5, 2025

QUINCY — When the subject is automation and workforce in the manufacturing setting, Jeremy Smith makes one thing clear.

“It’s not automation or workforce or workforce or automation. The two really have to go together,” said Smith, a technical specialist with the Illinois Manufacturing Excellence Center.

But a report commissioned by the Upjohn Institute found small- to medium-sized manufacturers lag behind compared to larger manufacturers and often face larger financial, skill set and cultural hurdles in adopting automation technology.

Quincy area businesses and human resources professionals came together Tuesday for the Western Illinois Regional Roundtable focused on modern approaches to address the local labor shortage.

“It’s really just bringing together local organizations and business leaders to get a more in-depth view of workforce resources across the state and locally with a focus on how manufacturers are utilizing automation and showing them ways they also may be able to utilize automation and train their workforce,” said Cole Schwartz, director of workforce and community development with the Great River Economic Development Foundation.

Knapheide Manufacturing Facilities and Maintenance Manager Chuck Makins said the business looks for ways to enhance its workforce — and its automated technology.

“Automation has been a big help to improve our processing out there, shore up some of the labor shortcomings that everyone is having,” Makins said. “We’re always looking for ways to hire new people, especially trades.”

Many manufacturers assume that implementing automation is too costly or only beneficial for large companies, but a slate of speakers challenged those assumptions by sharing strategies for adopting automation technologies and training current employees while also highlighting state and local resources.

“We have to do something,” Smith said. “There’s a continued workforce shortage, so we’ve got to upskill the current workforce, hold onto the current workforce and we’ll need to supplement with automation and other advanced technologies.”

IMA offers similar roundtable programs across the state, working with local partners such as GREDF.

While the financial hurdles may be greater for small businesses, overcoming cultural challenges can be easier.

“For smaller manufacturers with a smaller workforce, making that cultural change, while still not easy, can be simpler to get everyone pulling together,” Smith said.

Manufacturers of all sizes also can turn to a range of financial resources to help overcome financial challenges.

“There’s plenty of automation partners that if given a clear problem statement will be able to put together a cost-effective solution,” Smith said. “The idea is automation should be solving a problem. That problem can’t just be lack of automation. What are we trying to do with this piece of advanced tech equipment, what problem are solving, then we can put together that financial piece.”

Workforce and technology challenges in manufacturing are nothing new.

“The manufacturing industry is still alive, despite the fact all the way back in 1963 we were saying there’s a talent shortage,” Smith said.

But GatesAir HR Generalist Dena Pracht hoped to find some advice because workforce recruiting has gotten harder.

“Because of the environment that we’re in, different challenges with types of business and types of skills we’re looking for, some jobs are harder to recruit for,” Pracht said. “I’ve seen the ebbs and flows over several years, how it changed. I’ll try to get some information on how to more effectively recruit in the market we’re in right now.”

Story By: Quincy Herald Whig – Deborah Gertz Husar – 3/4/25

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