Blog
Quad Cities Chamber Blog
QC, That's Where the Quad Cities Chamber and area businesses in our family of communities are advancing regional prosperity and advocating for economic growth along the Mississippi River.
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Weekly Economic Trends and Indicators
July 21, 2026
This week we take a deeper dive into the productivity statistics and look at a new Census survey that seeks to measure AI adoption throughout the economy.
Interns say people, recreation and affordability make the QC appealing
July 16, 2026
The Chamber's InternQC program helps bridge the gap between a summer internship and a burgeoning career.
Weekly Economic Trends and Indicators
July 14, 2026
International trade flows have stabilized now that the new tariffs have been in effect for several months. Both imports and exports have increased. This week, we look at how the composition of trade has shifted in the year since the tariffs and identify an important factor that could determine where things go from here.
Dallas-based developer says QC has a unique balance that’s hard to find
July 14, 2026
“It was a pleasure to welcome Garet Tomlinson to the Quad Cities during our most recent familiarization tour,” said Peter Tokar III, President and CEO of Grow Quad Cities. “Each year, we host site selectors and business leaders exploring relocation or investment opportunities and give them a chance to personally experience our region."
Weekly Economic Trends and Indicators
July 9, 2026
U.S. job growth in June failed to meet expectations, but the unemployment rate edged slightly lower as labor force participation fell. This week, we examine the industries with the most job gains and losses and put this report into the context of upcoming monetary policy decisions.
At the Chamber, summer is made for planning
July 8, 2026
While many in the business community are taking a well-earned break, our team is hard at work preparing for the fiscal year, which began on July 1. Behind the scenes, conversations are happening, venues are being secured, speakers are being confirmed and details are coming together to ensure the Chamber continues delivering the events, connections and opportunities our members expect throughout the year.
Weekly Economic Trends and Indicators
July 2, 2026
Construction continues to be the hottest category in the local job market, adding another 300 jobs in May. Seasonal factors were the big employment driver across the local economy. This week, we identify the sectors that changed the most and discuss how employment demographics are contributing to long-term trends.
Chamber welcomes 7 new members in June
July 1, 2026
The Chamber extends a warm welcome to the 7 businesses that became members in June.
QC joins Illinois EDC program to turn data into economic growth
June 26, 2026
Grow Quad Cities has joined the Illinois Economic Development Corporation’s Economic Research Center's Regional Research Pilot Program (R2P2), a new initiative designed to provide deeper, forward-looking research and economic growth planning support to communities and partners across Illinois.
Weekly Economic Trends and Indicators
June 25, 2026
U.S. inflation numbers came in a little higher than expected in May. This week, we look at the sectors where inflation is the hottest and investigate whether recent developments could bring relief in June's data.
Project GATEWAY ushers in a new era of travel for the Quad Cities
June 24, 2026
The Quad Cities International Airport (MLI) is embarking on a transformation that will reshape the travel experience for residents, visitors and businesses across the region. Known as Project GATEWAY, this long-term modernization initiative is reimagining the facility from the ground up, creating a more efficient, accessible and welcoming environment while positioning the airport to serve the region for decades to come.
Chambers were a part of America before we were officially America
June 23, 2026
Chambers were a part of America before we were officially America -- eight years before the Declaration of Independence was signed. Long before we had a Congress, a Constitution or a country, local business leaders were already gathering to strengthen their communities, support commerce and build the foundations of economic life.
Weekly Economic Trends and Indicators
June 18, 2026
There were two significant news events in the economic world recently with the potential to affect the outlook for the second half of the year. This week, we discuss how a new Federal Reserve Chair and a drop in oil prices could impact inflation and growth in the months ahead.
Davenport State of the City address emphasizes that it’s a “New Day” for the City
June 12, 2026
Davenport Mayor Jason Gordon delivered his inaugural State of the City address on Thursday, June 11, titled “A New Day,” emphasizing the importance of neighborhood investment, organizational stability and community connection.
Weekly Economic Trends and Indicators
June 11, 2026
U.S. job growth beat expectations in May, but the gains were not evenly distributed across sectors. This week, we look at which sectors gained the most jobs and why.
Seeking Small Business of the Year nominations
June 10, 2026
All Chamber members are encouraged to apply for the Small Business of the Year award. The winner will be recognized on August 5 during the 2026 Quad Cities Chamber Annual Meeting presented by Mediacom & Mediacom Business.
Business of Excellence Awards
June 10, 2026
All Chamber members are encouraged to apply for the Business of Excellence Award. The winners will be recognized on August 5 during the 2026 Quad Cities Chamber Annual Meeting presented by Mediacom.
Corporation of the Year
June 10, 2026
All Chamber members are encouraged to apply for the Corporation of the Year award. The winner will be recognized on August 5 during the 2026 Quad Cities Chamber Annual Meeting presented by Mediacom.
Illinois legislative season wraps up with $55.95 billion FY 2027 budget, and 395 bills approved
June 5, 2026
The Illinois General Assembly concluded its 2026 spring legislative session in the early morning hours of June 1, ending a session uniquely shaped by differing legislative calendars and priorities between the House and Senate. The General Assembly approved a $55.95 billion Fiscal Year 2027 budget, supported by a projected $55.945 billion in state revenues.
RIADA and QCMI highlight progress advancing manufacturing and defense initiatives in the QC
June 4, 2026
The Rock Island Arsenal Defense Alliance (RIADA) and Quad Cities Manufacturing Institute (QCMI)announced continued progress in their joint efforts to strengthen the Quad Cities region’s manufacturing and defense ecosystem.
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