The Illinois Economic Development Corporation and Ameren Illinois have announced the launch of the Ameren Site Acceleration Program to prepare land for major business investments. This pilot initiative focuses on three high-potential sites located in Champaign, Decatur, and Ottawa. The goal is to complete technical due diligence and engineering studies ahead of time. This makes the properties more attractive to companies that need to build facilities quickly.

Ameren Illinois is providing the funding for these initial assessments. The work includes creating conceptual layouts and performing industry analyses to see which sectors best fit each site. Illinois EDC will assist by marketing these vetted properties to global consultants and corporate executives. The program focuses on areas identified as equity investment eligible communities which have been impacted by economic vulnerability.

The state has increased its focus on site readiness during 2025. The Illinois EDC created a dedicated Site Readiness Department which has significantly expanded its database of available properties. There are currently 1,655 sites listed for projects in industries such as life sciences and agtech. This work matches the broader goals of the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act.

“Illinois EDC is committed to driving new jobs and investment to Illinois by leveraging the state’s unmatched strengths—its diverse economy, deep talent pool, global connectivity, and world-leading research ecosystem,” said Illinois EDC President and CEO Christy George. “A strong inventory of modern, development-ready sites shortens timelines, reduces risk for investors, and strengthens Illinois’ ability to compete for major corporate expansions—keeping the state at the forefront of business attraction and economic opportunity. Illinois EDC is proud to collaborate with Ameren on this meaningful work.”

The initiative comes as the state administration allocates $500 million toward business attraction. This includes the Illinois Regional Site Readiness Program and efforts to rehabilitate state-owned land. Technical work for the new pilot scheme is expected to begin in January 2026.

“Economic development is highly competitive and the winners cannot afford to be reactive,” said Kristol Simms, Vice President, Economic Development, Ameren Illinois. “We’re pleased to make this investment to accelerate preparation of marketable assets in our region. By performing site due diligence on the front end, we’ll remove barriers to development and fast track the location process for businesses that want to expand and grow in downstate Illinois.”

Local leaders believe the program will help their cities stand out in a global market. Mayor Deborah Frank Feinen of Champaign noted that the planning would have a powerful impact on economic competitiveness. In Decatur, officials expect the program to place Commerce Park in a leading position for job growth. Mayor Robert Hasty of Ottawa stated that the partnership will enable the city to attract meaningful investment for years to come.