The State of Illinois and metropolitan Chicago can do more to align economic development efforts across units of government, consistent with rigorous market analysis.{{Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning, “Reorienting State and Regional Economic Development: Challenges and Opportunities for Metropolitan Chicago,” December 2014, https://cmap.illinois.gov/wp-content/uploads/FY15-0023-REORIENTING-STATE-AND-REGIONAL-ECONOMIC-DEV-REPORT.pdf.}} In 2013, the Illinois General Assembly passed a law requiring the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity to develop a statewide, five-year strategic plan for economic development that leverages and enhances existing programs and incentives.{{Illinois General Assembly, Public Act 98-0397, 98th General Assembly, 2013.}} The initial plan was developed with minimal engagement of stakeholders from our region despite its outsized role in the state’s economy. Meaningful engagement of local leaders from across the state could improve future planning processes and implementation. Ongoing strategic planning can identify where stakeholders should focus public investments based on the region’s priorities, unique assets, and complex challenges. Moreover, the plan and subsequent implementation could be strengthened by differentiating supports to the very diverse economies across Illinois. Emerging challenges and opportunities may warrant new or expanded economic development activities. However, the state should work to alleviate and reduce challenges that administrative processes and regulatory actions can address. Examples may include regulatory barriers, fiscal and tax policies, permitting processes, education and workforce development, and physical infrastructure. Activities should be tailored as appropriate to sustain a more stable and reliable environment for business. Action 1 Identify and plan for the distinct needs of the state’s regional economies, allocating resources and developing policies to reflect their unique scale, opportunities, and challenges. Implementers State of Illinois Action 2 Coordinate the delivery of direct services, programs, and financial assistance for economic development with regional organizations and stakeholders. Implementers State of Illinois Action 3 Pursue transparent, accountable practices that ensure investments for economic development produce improved results. Implementers State of Illinois Action 4 Seek opportunities to collaborate for economic development across state boundaries, as appropriate. Implementers State of Illinois and regional organizations