Illinoisans directly employed
in manufacturing
Total jobs supported statewide
by manufacturing
The IMA Foundation produces independent, business-led research to inform Illinois’ long-term economic competitiveness. As one of the most powerful drivers of the state’s economy, manufacturing employs 650,000 workers who produce the single largest share of our state’s economy.
To remain competitive, Illinois must ensure its workforce, infrastructure, energy, and innovation systems work together to make smart investments and support business growth. Through the IMA Foundation’s research and reporting, Illinois’ most robust industries can have the information they need to help ensure:
– THE ILLINOIS RESEARCH PIPELINE
To build a sustainable economy for generations to come, it is critical that we invest in research and innovation now. R&D investment directly increases productivity and long-term economic growth.
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– RESEARCH THAT SHAPES THE FUTURE
Econometric studies show that research spending directly contributes to technological progress. Our work supports leaders across business, government, and education in making informed decisions that strengthen Illinois’ economic position. Together, we can spur innovation, create jobs, and increase overall productivity in the state.
– COMPLEMENTARY LEADERSHIP
The Illinois Manufacturers’ Association (IMA) and the IMA Foundation work to strengthen manufacturing and the Illinois economy, but they serve distinct and complementary roles. Where IMA advances policy, the Foundation informs long-term competitiveness strategies. Both organizations are committed to advancing a more innovative, resilient, and prosperous Illinois.
ADVOCACY
The IMA is the state’s leading advocate for manufacturers and the general business community, representing their interests in the legislative and regulatory process. It works directly with policymakers to advance policies that support economic growth, job creation, and a strong manufacturing sector.
Through advocacy, coalition-building, and public engagement, the IMA works to ensure that the voices of manufacturers are heard in decisions that shape Illinois’ economic environment.
RESEARCH
The IMA Foundation is an independent, nonpartisan research organization that focuses on the long-term structural factors influencing Illinois’ economic competitiveness.
The Foundation does not lobby, endorse candidates, or engage in legislative advocacy. Instead, it produces credible economic analysis and competitiveness research that helps leaders across business, government, and education better understand the systems that influence growth.
The IMA Foundation provides independent research and analysis that leaders can use to evaluate Illinois’ competitiveness and inform long-term decisions. Our analysis helps business, policy, and economic development leaders answer critical questions such as:


Where does Illinois rank against peer states on workforce availability, infrastructure capacity, energy costs, and regulatory timelines?
Which structural barriers and tax policies most affect manufacturing investment and expansion decisions across the state?
What workforce skills and talent pipelines will be required to support advanced manufacturing over the next decade?
How do energy policy, infrastructure investment, and permitting timelines influence business location decisions?
Where should public and private capital be prioritized to strengthen Illinois’ economic position?
As a research partner, board member, or investor, your engagement helps shape the long-term competitiveness of our state.