QC, That’s Where your business can grow with legacy companies
Ag manufacturing has long been a part of our economy and is part of our identity. We are building on the legacy of John Deere, a global giant that remains deeply rooted in the Quad Cities. Over 1,200 manufacturers from all industry sectors call the QC home. Specifically, several food production and equipment facilities, along with food packaging and distribution companies, round out the food manufacturing ecosystem in the region.
QC, That’s Where food manufacturers thrive because of our proximity to food commodities, raw materials and an abundant water supply. Our water supply has in-place capacity to handle both water and wastewater treatment needs for extended periods. Our strong work ethic and the quality craftsmanship of our generational ag and manufacturing workforce are the primary reasons companies choose us.
QC, That's Where?
Industry Advantages
Central Midwest location: The QC is the heart of the Midwest, connected by the renowned Mississippi River and intersected by Interstate 80. Within 300 miles of the QC, you’ll have access to 41 million people.
Multi-modal transportation network: QC, That’s Where your products have a direct path to major U.S. cities in mere hours, not days, via three major interstates. It is where barges unload and embark on the Mississippi River intercostal waterway and where freight railroads transport products and goods through our region and the world. It is where our international airport serves as a host to the delivery of your clients and your freight.
Technically-skilled workforce: The QC’s top industry is manufacturing, constituting a large portion of our laborshed. The QC’s food manufacturing workforce is well-known for quality deliverables, keen attention to detail, low margin for error and institutional knowledge. With a higher than national average employment concentration in key agricultural manufacturing and food production roles - including production workers, electrical engineers, industrial maintenance technicians and CDL drivers - companies will have access to a skilled workforce that will take their operations to the next level.
Clean energy: In the QC, companies can trust they will have reliable, redundant and renewable power at a fraction of the cost. The QC is consistently ranked as one of the top communities in the U.S. for its cost of doing business. Our electric rates are the 5th lowest in the country, and a significant portion is from renewable energy sources.
Key Companies
- John Deere, world headquarters
- ADM (Archer Daniels Midland)
- Bayer
- CHS, Inc.
- Fair Oaks Foods (2026 open date)
- Hill & Valley
- Kent Corporation
- Kraft Heinz Company
- Maschio Gaspardo
- Mississippi River Distilling Company
- Nestle Purina
- Performance Food Services
- Prairie Farms Dairy, Inc.
- Tyson Fresh Meats
- West Liberty Foods
- Whitey's Ice Cream
See more top employers providing career opportunities in the QC.
