The Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) is charged with enhancing Illinois' economic competitiveness by providing technical and financial assistance to businesses, local governments, workers and families. As the state's lead economic development agency, DCEO works to capitalize on Illinois' strengths as a center of transportation, manufacturing and technology development. The agency actively promotes the state's business-friendly policies, highly productive workers, and entrepreneurial spirit -- attributes that helped Illinois win Site Selection magazine's Governor's Cup as the top state in the nation for business development.

DCEO administers a wide array of programs and services designed to help Illinois businesses thrive in the global economy. Whether it's offering expansion incentives, technology support services, access to capital, global marketing expertise, or job training and education for workers, DCEO is committed to forging partnerships with the private sector in an effort to build upon Illinois' reputation as a center for business and industry. This includes a strong emphasis on programs designed to provide small businesses -- particularly minority and female entrepreneurs -- with the resources they need to succeed.

Other ingredients needed for a vibrant Illinois economy include strong communities and families. To that end, DCEO assists local governments with their management and infrastructure needs and facilitates the use of innovative energy, recycling and waste reduction technologies. The agency also coordinates federal, state and local programs to ensure that low-income residents are not left behind, but helped to break the cycle of poverty.

Finally, DCEO works tirelessly to promote Illinois resources and attractions to the rest of the world. From the coal mines of Southern Illinois to Chicago's spectacular skyline, DCEO aggressively markets Illinois products and travel destinations through the Bureau of Tourism, Illinois Film Office, Office of Coal Development, and the Illinois Trade Office.

The agency's central administration point is the Director's Office, which includes the Offices of Audits; Legislative Affairs; Legal; Communications, Information and Marketing; and Policy Development, Planning and Research (PDPR). The Director's Office also oversees the Illinois Trade Office, the Illinois Film Office and the Divisions of Agency Services, Coal Development, and Fiscal Management.

620 E. Adams
Springfield, IL 62701
(217) 782-7500
TDD: (800) 785-6055

100 W. Randolph
Suite 3-400
Chicago, IL 60601
(312) 814-7179
TDD: (800) 419-0667