Regional Collaboration

THE GREATER CHICAGOLAND
ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIP

The Greater Chicagoland Economic Partnership (GCEP) unites the region to build a stronger, more resilient economy – together.

What Is The Greater Chicagoland Economic Partnership?

The Greater Chicagoland Economic Partnership (GCEP) is a strategic alliance between the City of Chicago and its seven surrounding counties: Cook, DuPage, Kane, Kendall, Lake, McHenry, and Will.

World Business Chicago serves as GCEP's managing partner, aligning the region's strengths — talent, infrastructure, industry, and innovation — under one unified strategy.

Why GCEP?

  • The region shares world-class assets — and working together unlocks their full potential.

  • 60% of workers already cross county lines every day. Connecting jobs and talent across the region creates opportunity for everyone.

  • A unified region is a more competitive region. Businesses already think regionally, economic development should too.

How Does GCEP Work?

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Business Development

When a company is considering expanding, relocating, or investing in Chicagoland, GCEP ensures the whole region shows up, not just one county.

GCEP coordinates business attraction and retention efforts across the region, sharing leads, aligning resources, and presenting a unified case for why Chicagoland is the right choice. Through site selection support, company tours, and state and local coordination, GCEP helps businesses find their home in the region and grow once they're here.

Research

The WBC Research Center serves as the region's data engine — producing original research, responding to partner requests, and translating economic data into actionable strategies.

The Research Center works directly with county and municipal partners to deliver custom data, presentations, and insights that support business attraction, workforce planning, and community development. By centralizing research capacity across the region, GCEP ensures that every community has the intelligence they need to compete and grow.

Convenings & Regional Investment

Monthly convenings give economic development leaders across all eight areas a dedicated space to align on priorities, share intelligence, and learn from each other – building the trust that makes real collaboration possible.

Our GCEP Partners

We work with economic development partners within each of Chicago’s seven surrounding counties to promote shared economic growth for the region.

Close-up of the official emblem of the City of Chicago, featuring a bald eagle, a shield, and various symbols representing the city with the text 'City of Chicago' and 'Urb in Horto'.
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City of Chicago

Cook County

DuPage County

Kane County

Seal of Kendall County, Illinois, featuring a historic courthouse building with the labels "Kendall County," "Illinois," and "Est. 1841" on a circular blue background with gold stars.

Kendall County

Lake County

McHenry County

Will County

Featured Report

Research Products
GCEP 2025 Year In Review
GCEP 2025 Year In Review

2025 marked significant strides in the form of strengthened leadership, continued global recognition, expanded international engagement, and a sustained commitment to inclusive, informed business development and venture opportunities, solidifying Chicagoland’s position as a premier destination for investment and innovation.

Read more →

Get In Touch

GCEP makes it easier for you to assess opportunities for business expansion and relocation unbound by local interests. Talk to a GCEP expert today and get connected with a metro region that works together.

Contact Us
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