Illinois e-News Release

CHICAGO — Today, Governor JB Pritzker concluded his visit to the Goodwood Festival of Speed in the United Kingdom, where he promoted Illinois’ commitment to electric vehicle manufacturing with automobile and parts manufacturing leaders. He will now kick off the delegation phase of the trade mission in the U.K., beginning with a welcome dinner at the London Tower Bridge.

Over the upcoming days, the delegation of business and education leaders will meet with their counterparts in London to discuss the expansion of partnerships between the State of Illinois and the United Kingdom. Governor Pritzker and the delegation will focus on promoting clean energy and economic developments, while meeting with public and private sector leaders to foster greater collaboration and investments in Illinois’ economy.

“As Governor of Illinois, there are few things I enjoy more than touting the many merits of our great state to a global audience,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “From a world-class workforce and top-tier research institutions to a booming clean energy sector and thriving business economy, the Land of Lincoln has it all. In London, I look forward to meeting with UK leaders to discuss our shared history and the future of our longstanding partnership. “

“The Goodwood Festival is an opportunity to share Illinois’ assets with the world’s top electric vehicle leaders who are focused on building the clean energy future,” said DCEO Director Kristin Richards. “Illinois offers the strongest workforce in the Midwest, 100% carbon free energy, access to unparalleled transportation and logistics networks, and robust research and development tools. The Governor’s presence at Goodwood will help reinforce that message with top business leaders from around the globe.”

Illinois was recently ranked by CNBC as one of the 2023 Top States for Business and continues to attract companies looking to call the state home. Over the past several years, Illinois has launched new business attraction incentives while making improvements to its existing suite.

The positive rankings in key competitive categories come as Illinois is experiencing a record-setting year for economic development, including ranking #2 in the nation for corporate investment and #1 for workforce development in the Midwest by Site Selection Magazine. Illinois also shattered its record for film production spending (nearly $700 million) and reached an all-time high for hotel revenues in FY23.

In the upcoming days, the Governor and delegation will tour parliament, visit the U.S. Embassy, attend round tables, and meet with top U.K. officials, all while touting what Illinois has to offer.