ScaleUp & Secure

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.