Simplify Your Move
to Central Illinois
Finding the right location and business resources in central Illinois for your growing business can be challenging.
We’re here to help.
Lincoln Economic Advancement & Development, Inc. (LEAD) can simplify your move or expansion to Lincoln, Illinois, with expert guidance and helpful resources so you can grow your business with easy access to markets in central Illinois and beyond.
Lincoln, the hub of central Illinois, is currently home to more than 1,600 small businesses with many more located in the surrounding towns. Yours could be next.
With a team of experienced business and community leaders, LEAD supports entrepreneurs like you who want to expand their businesses in central Illinois. We’re also committed to developing projects and programs that encourage community and economic development, working toward town revitalization, new jobs, additional housing, and small business development.
Ready to explore business expansion opportunities in Lincoln? We’d love to meet with you.
Andrea Runge, LEAD CEO
Your move-to-Lincoln guide
Ready to talk about your move to Lincoln, Illinois?
Andrea Runge is here to help.
Andrea serves as LEAD’s chief executive officer and your move-to-Lincoln guide. With more than 20 years of experience in community and economic development in Illinois, Andrea is well prepared to help your company make the most of its move.
“LEAD is a grassroots organization that grew directly from the concerns of local leaders. Lincoln has discovered what it cares about and is taking the steps necessary to shape its collective future. ”
Key Industries
Healthcare and eldercare
Agriculture
Logistics
Top Employers
Sysco
Cresco Labs
Eaton
International Paper
Lincoln Memorial Hospital
Integrity Data
Local Highlights
Guzzardo’s Italian Villa - Third-generation Italian-American restaurant on Lincoln’s historic downtown square
Guest House Coffee & Pastries - Coffee roasted by hand and delicious homemade pastries made from scratch daily
Spirited Republic - Unique microbrewery and popular gathering spot
Kickapoo Park and Madigan Park - green spaces for exercise and recreation
Regional Highlights
Lincoln is the hub of Central Illinois with easy access to Peoria, Bloomington/Normal, Springfield, and Decatur—all within a 45 minute drive.
Hundreds of restaurants
Minor league sports teams: Peoria Chiefs baseball, Peoria Rivermen hockey, Normal Cornbelters baseball, Midway Marauders indoor football
College sports & cultural events: Illinois State University (Normal), Bradley University (Peoria), University of Illinois at Springfield, Milliken University (Decatur)
Fine arts and museums: Illinois Symphony Orchestra, Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
