Economic Development doesn’t just happen - it takes a team of committed business people, legislators and citizens, working to develop comprehensive plans and practices, to see results with real impact.

“OPEN!” is a step-by-step economic development guidebook created by professionals with a proven track record for creating jobs. It will be made available to community leaders throughout the Central Illinois Region who wish to better serve their constituency and prepare them for economic recovery. Unlike some economic development books, “OPEN!” uses easy to understand language and case studies to show community individuals and volunteers how they can help their economy grow. Through this public and private partnership, you can join with EDC to engage and assist communities throughout the Central Illinois Region.

This site serves as a companion to the economic development handbook entitled “OPEN! How to make and keep jobs in your community.”  On this web page you will find resources to help you through your economic development strategic plan. Enclosed in your handbook is a CD that contains worksheet and exercise files. In case you have lost that CD we have uploaded all of the documents you need here on this website.

If you would like to receive a printed version of this book, please contact Sally Hanley at 309-495-5953 or shanley@edc.h-p.org for more information.