CHICAGO, IL (Chambana Today) — Illinois has been ranked No. 2 in the nation for corporate expansion and relocation projects for the fourth consecutive year, with east-central Illinois communities playing a key role in that growth.

Gov. JB Pritzker announced the ranking from Site Selection Magazine, which also named Chicago the nation’s top metro area for corporate projects for the 13th straight year. The state additionally held its No. 2 ranking for projects per capita.

While Chicago’s performance helped secure the top metro designation, smaller markets across Illinois — including several in east-central Illinois — contributed significantly to the state’s 680 business expansion or relocation projects in 2025.

One of the largest announcements affecting the region is Cronus Chemicals’ planned $2 billion fertilizer production facility in Tuscola, a project expected to bring substantial long-term economic impact to Douglas County and surrounding communities. The Charleston-Mattoon micropolitan area was also recognized among top-performing smaller markets in Site Selection’s rankings.

State leaders say these investments demonstrate that economic momentum extends well beyond major metropolitan centers.

The rankings are based on projects that involve at least a $1 million investment, the creation of 20 new jobs, or 20,000 square feet of new space.

Officials with the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity say continued collaboration with local governments and economic development groups has helped position communities throughout east-central Illinois to compete for major projects.