Kankakee County to Host NAACP 88th State Conference

The NAACP Illinois State Conference will host its 88th Annual Convention from Friday, September 26, 2025, through Sunday, September 28, 2025, at the Quality Inn & Suites in Bradley, Illinois. This year’s theme, “The Fierce Urgency of Now,” is inspired by the timeless message of Rev. Dr.
Martin Luther King, Jr. and will guide a weekend of workshops, discussions, and events focused on advancing civil rights and social justice across Illinois.

The Kankakee Daily Journal showcases key employers, organizations and individuals in the community.

Kankakee County stands as a thriving hub of industrial growth, economic opportunity, and strategic development. We invite you to view the 2025 Kankakee County Market Profile to learn more.

The IMPACT Award honors the accomplishments of an individual, business or organization that has propelled sustainable growth and progress within the community. Through decades of innovation, investment and service, Francis Smith (Smitty) has significantly shaped the economic landscape of the region in driving progress, attracting business, involvement in various organizations and overall dedication to Kankakee County.

The Will Kankakee Regional Development Authority is seeking assistance for the daily operation of the Development Authority.

Kankakee County is moving full steam ahead in welcoming new industry and new opportunity to the region. The area, just 45 miles south of Chicago, showcases an economical cost of living, diverse industry base, significant transportation and infrastructure improvements, and strong education and workforce partners. Check out the 2024 Market Profile for Kankakee County.

The March 2024 edition of Site Selection magazine features Gotion’s investment in Kankakee County.

The Kankakee County Craft Beverage Trail is a great way for visitors and locals to taste their way through the county and interact with local businesses. This trail is comprised of 13 (and counting!) local businesses all boasting their own craft. Some offer coffee, some offer craft beer or wine, some offer smoothies or wine, but all offer a great atmosphere for people to gather.

Our local business community partners with area schools to create project-based experiences for students by providing funding, expertise, meeting space, business tours, and one-on-one mentoring. Students earn high school credit upon successfully completing the two-semester course.