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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 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.
Weekly Economic Trends and Indicators
June 4, 2026
April brought a strong seasonal uptick in jobs in the Quad Cities, although seasonally adjusted numbers have been little changed over the last few months. One sector has stood out recently with consistent job growth over the last few years. This week, we identify that high-performing sector and some others that have also seen solid growth.
10 businesses join the Chamber in May
June 2, 2026
The Chamber extends a warm welcome to the 10 businesses that became members in May.
ICSC was opportunity to show off Quad Cities’ focus on mixed-use development
June 1, 2026
Grow Quad Cities joined more than 25,000 commercial real estate and retail leaders at ICSC (International Council of Shopping Centers) Las Vegas, held May 17–20. This year’s show aligned perfectly with Grow's new focus on mixed‑use and riverfront development across the Quad Cities.
Weekly Economic Trends and Indicators
May 27, 2026
In the last two years, U.S. labor productivity growth has been well above pre-2020 levels. Is AI driving these productivity gains? This week, we consider the recent trends and explore why the question about AI's role in productivity is important for the economic outlook.
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