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Shedd Aquarium

IT’S HANDMADE, HOMEMADE,
LOCALLY MADE, IT’S ILLINOIS MADE

Every crafted item carries a little bit of the place and people that make it. The Illinois Makers program celebrates the small businesses whose uniquely Illinoisan style and creativity set our locally made goods apart.

Read on to find Illinois Made businesses in every region of the state or view the digital Illinois Made Guide for profiles on a selection of Makers. 

Interested in becoming (or nominating) an Illinois Maker? View criteria and submit.

A man making hats

Illinois Made in Chicago

Unique Finds in the Big City

A longtime manufacturing hub, local artisans continue the city’s centuries-long tradition of creating, making everything from delicious treats to stylish clothes to chic home decor.

Barrels of whiskey

Illinois Made in Chicagoland

ARTISANS JUST OUTSIDE THE CITY

Beyond the city limits, the skyscrapers give way to treelined suburbs and smaller communities where greater Chicagoland makers are baking, building, and painting some wonderful things.

Riggs beer in the middle of a field.

Illinois Made in The Land of Lincoln

Makers in Central Illinois

Deep in the heart of the state’s prairies, local makers are pouring their passion into artful desserts, small-batch spirits, and classic furniture that are honestly amazing.

Two girls laugh while enjoying red wine at a vineyard

Illinois Made in Great Rivers Country

Carefully Crafted in Western Illinois

In the charming small towns along the great rivers of the region, makers are crafting some of the finest pottery, handmade heirlooms, and delightful trinkets in the midwest.

Illinois Made in Trails to Adventure

Quirky Creations & Delicious Drinks in Southern Illinois

Adventurous and unique describes not just the topography, but the standout foods, drinks, and quirky creations that makers in Southern Illinois are crafting every single day.

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