On behalf of the Hancock County Economic Development Board, President Matt Kraus is pleased to introduce our new executive director, Belynda Allen.Kraus told the Herald-Whig that Allen brings a driving passion for economic development to the job."Belynda's eagerness to do what she can to improve the economy of the county and the surrounding area made her stand out," Kraus said.Belynda Allen grew up in upstate New York before moving to the Champaign-Urbana area. Allen previously … [Read more...] about Meet Our New Executive Director
Western Illinois Leadership Academy
University of Illinois Extension will be holding the next session of Western Illinois Leadership Academy beginning in August and ending in November.The leadership academy offers participants the opportunity to examine key issues facing our five-county region and to garner a broad understanding of successful initiatives in each of the counties. The program includes unique tours as well as a networking opportunity with other participants and with presenters.A new focus for 2019, in … [Read more...] about Western Illinois Leadership Academy
Hancock County CEO – Year 4
As Hancock County CEO finishes up year four, I can’t help but take a step back and see the impact that you, as community leaders and business owners in Hancock County, are making on the students. Thank you, Hancock County Economic Development, for supporting this entrepreneurial experience for Hancock County students. Each week, CEO students write a journal with their insights. Hearing how this class is transforming their thinking and lives is best coming from them. The following are journal … [Read more...] about Hancock County CEO – Year 4
Spring Director’s Report
WE MOVED!! As of April 1st, the Hancock County Economic Development office is now located at 2005 East Highway 136 on the east side of Carthage. Our mailing address is PO Box 484, Carthage, IL 62321. We are sharing space with Hancock County EMS. This will provide us with more visibility and a good place to meet with people. Thank you to the Hancock County Board and EMS for working with us.BUSINESS RETENTION AND EXPANSION In the past six months, there have been 25 business visits. I have … [Read more...] about Spring Director’s Report
Job Fair at Southeastern High School
More than 200 students from six Hancock County and surrounding area high schools were provided with information on job openings, training, apprenticeships, and educational opportunities at a job fair in Augusta on March 29th.The job fair was sponsored by the Workforce Investment Board of Western Illinois in conjunction with Hancock County Economic Development and Southeastern High School, where the event was held. Thirty-five organizations were represented including area employers, training … [Read more...] about Job Fair at Southeastern High School
Spring Message from the President
If you are reading this then you already know, it’s newsletter time. Before I drone on and lose your attention, I want to express deep gratitude, both personally and on behalf of this organization, to our executive director, Terry Pope. As you know, Terry will be retiring in June of this year. During his tenure with our organization, Terry has built numerous relationships, led the creation and implementation of our strategic plan, and spearheaded our recent Business Plan Grant program, just to … [Read more...] about Spring Message from the President