VOICE OF BUSINESS
The Voice of Business page serves as a platform for advocating on behalf of local businesses, providing updates on economic trends, policy developments, and community initiatives that impact the business environment. It highlights key issues, success stories, and opportunities for growth while fostering collaboration between business leaders, government officials, and community stakeholders. This page acts as a resource for businesses to stay informed, engage in advocacy efforts, and contribute to shaping a thriving local economy.
Your Business, Our Mission:
We go beyond conversation—we drive results. The Voice of Business provides you with the tools and resources needed to advocate with confidence. From data-driven insights to strategic communication support, we empower you to make a meaningful impact and amplify your voice where it matters most.
At the Kankakee Chamber of Commerce, we are committed to supporting our business community. Our Voice of Business page will feature updates, providing you with the latest insights, trends, policies, and regulations. From taxes to infrastructure, from workforce development to healthcare, the decisions made by our government officials affect your day-to-day operations and long-term growth. The Voice of Business connects you with the policymakers who shape these decisions.
Check out some of our current articles:
How to File a Beneficial Ownership Information Report for Your Business
Giannoulias Launches Interactive Portal to Determine Whether Illinoisans Need a REAL ID
Click here to see upcoming grant opportunites:
State of the Legislator: Insights from Our Local Leaders:
The State of the Legislator video series brings you timely conversations with our local and state elected officials, focusing on the policies and decisions that impact Kankakee County’s business community. Hosted by the Kankakee County Chamber of Commerce, these interviews offer valuable insights into legislative priorities, economic development, and how government and business can work together to strengthen our region.
How to contact your local city and county officials:
Learn more about your state officials
Jackie Haas is the State Representative for the 79th House District, serving residents in Kankakee, Will, and Grundy Counties. She has dedicated her life to serving the most vulnerable among us. Click here to learn more!
Patrick Joyce - State Senator - 40th DistrictÂ
A local business owner and fourth-generation farmer, Senator Patrick Joyce has deep ties to the 40th Senate District. He grew up in Reddick and has lived in Essex for 24 years with his wife. Click here to learn more!Â
Robin Kelly - Congresswomen
Congresswoman Robin Kelly has dedicated her career to public service as an advocate for Illinois families. Since being elected to serve the 2nd Congressional District in 2013, she has worked to expand economic opportunity, community wellness, and public safety across the state, championing numerous initiatives to generate job growth, reduce health disparities, and end gun violence. Click here to learn more!Â
Elgie R. Simms Jr. - State Senator 17th District
SEN. ELGIE R. SIMS, JR. serves as State Senator for the 17th Illinois Senate District, which includes portions of the South Side of Chicago, Chicago’s South Suburbs, and Will and Kankakee counties. Prior to joining the Illinois Senate, he served nearly four terms as State Representative of Illinois’ 34th House District. Click here to learn more!Â
Napoleon Harris III - State Senator
Napoleon B. Harris III serves as the state senator for Illinois’ 15th District. He represents parts of both Cook and Will Counties, covering the 9th Ward of Chicago, Blue Island, Calumet City and parts of Oak Forest, Homewood, and Steger. The district also includes the cities of Dolton, Dixmoor, East Hazel Crest, Riverdale, South Holland, Harvey, Midlothian, Glenwood, Markham, Posen, Crete and Monee. Click here to learn more!Â
Thaddeus Jones - State Representative 29th DistrictÂ
Thaddeus M. Jones has served as State representative in the 29th District since 2011. Representative Jones is committed to providing employment opportunities for all Illinoisans, making our streets safer, providing opportunities for our children to receive a world class education and to fight to ensure that underserved communities do not get left behind. Click here to learn more!
Nicholas "Nick" Smith - State Representative 34th DistrictÂ
State Representative Nicholas Smith hails from the Chicago Public Schools system, graduating from Robert A. Black Magnet School and attending Whitney Young Magnet High School. His educational journey continued at Florida A&M University, Olive Harvey College, Chicago State University, and Northern Illinois University. He received a bachelor’s degree in chemistry and continued his studies by taking graduate courses with a focus on community and economic development, higher education administration, and law. Click here to learn more!