Great River Economic Development Foundation and Hancock County Economic Development Announce Regional Partnership to Strengthen Economic Growth in Hancock County

The Great River Economic Development Foundation (GREDF) and Hancock County Economic Development (HCED) announced a strategic partnership that brings dedicated, professional economic development services to Hancock County and connects the county to a regional network.

As the centerpiece of the partnership, GREDF is hiring a Regional Director of Workforce Development & Hancock County Business Development, a new position dedicated to supporting Hancock County businesses, leading business retention and expansion visits, and building workforce solutions tailored to local industry needs. Recruitment is underway now, and candidates from Hancock County are strongly encouraged to apply.

Through the partnership, Hancock County employers, schools, and residents will gain access to GREDF’s proven regional programs, including Career Spark, a hands-on career exploration expo for students and more opportunities which connect employers with the regional talent pipeline; and the ScaleUp and Secure program for growing businesses. GREDF will also pursue grant funding for priorities identified in the HCED Action Plan 2026.

“Successful economic development requires a regional mindset and a willingness to collaborate across community lines,” said Kyle Moore, President of GREDF. “This partnership allows us to strengthen our collective resources and create a more coordinated approach to supporting businesses, attracting investment, and developing the workforce our region needs for the future.”

For Hancock County, the partnership provides increased access to professional economic development expertise, enhanced organizational capacity, and additional tools to support existing businesses, attract new investment, and develop workforce solutions aligned with local industry needs.

“This partnership is an important step forward for Hancock County,” said Amy Bruenger, Board Chair of Hancock County Economic Development. “By working with GREDF, we are enhancing our ability to serve businesses, pursue new opportunities, and provide the resources necessary to support continued economic growth.”

Work begins immediately. This month, the partners will launch HCED’s 2026 membership drive, begin one-on-one meetings with business and community stakeholders across the county, and expand HCED’s outreach and social media presence. Hancock County businesses interested in getting involved are encouraged to contact either organization.

About GREDF

Founded in 1978, the Great River Economic Development Foundation leads business retention, expansion, and attraction efforts in Quincy and Adams County, Illinois, and collaborates regionally along the Mississippi River with Western Illinois and Northeast Missouri. GREDF’s programs include the Adams County GROW housing program, the Business Concierge service, and GREAT River FAME. Learn more at www.gredf.org.

About HCED

Hancock County Economic Development is dedicated to fostering business growth, investment, and community development across Hancock County, Illinois. Established in June 2013, the organization primarily focuses on retaining and expanding the existing businesses and workforce. Their mission is to boost the economic vitality of Hancock County, Illinois. For more information, visit www.growhancock.com.