Global Aerospace Summit sessions spotlight REV Illinois program, advanced manufacturing incentives and the state's growing aerospace ecosystem.
[Edwardsville, IL / August 27, 2026] – Two presentations at the 2026 Global Aerospace Summit showcased why Illinois continues to attract aerospace investment, advanced manufacturing projects and emerging aviation technologies. During separate sessions held August 19 and 20, Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) Chief Business Attraction & Development Officer Lisa Clemmons Stott and Illinois State Rep. Katie Stuart outlined the policies, incentives, workforce assets and transportation advantages helping position Illinois as a premier destination for aerospace growth.
In her presentation, “REVving Up Aerospace: Incentives Driving UAV Manufacturing in Illinois,” Clemmons Stott provided a detailed overview of the state's Reimagining Energy and Vehicles (REV) Illinois program and highlighted how Illinois is supporting aerospace innovation through incentive programs designed to encourage investment in aviation electrification, UAV manufacturing, batteries, electric propulsion technologies and other advanced manufacturing sectors.
Clemmons Stott noted that Illinois has intentionally expanded its economic development strategy to support both established aerospace companies and emerging startups developing next-generation aviation technologies.
“Whether you're an established company or a startup, it helps to have the government undertake some of the risk,” Clemmons Stott said. “We are trying to take on some of the risk for this industry to provide financial stability so that you can develop and demonstrate the potential of the product, whether that be R&D as you determine what parts of an airplane can be electrified, or if you are doing manufacturing or assembly.”
She pointed to several examples of Illinois' support for aerospace and advanced aviation initiatives, including partnerships related to advanced air mobility, drone technology applications and investments supporting aerospace employers throughout the state. She highlighted the state’s recent support for Gulfstream’s expansion which created 200 new jobs and retained 500 existing jobs in Cahokia Heights, Ill., and its investment in Boeing’s new production facility in Mascoutah, Ill. Clemmons Stott also highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen emerging aviation sectors through legislation, workforce development programs and infrastructure improvements.
Clemmons Stott provided a wealth of information about the state's REV Illinois program, which continues to be expanded each legislative session and now combines a wide range of incentives into a single streamlined program designed to support investment and growth across emerging industries, including aerospace. She said it includes everything from payroll withholding tax credits for both new and retained jobs and construction tax credits, to one-time investment credits, grants for workforce training and even utility exemptions.
“We've taken pretty much every incentive that you can have in the state and put it together in one easy application,” she said.
Her presentation also covered Illinois’ Advancing Innovative Manufacturing (AIM) Tax Credit, EDGE for Startups, various financing options and federal matching grants. In addition, she highlighted the National Quantum Algorithm Center a place where industry and quantum companies can work together to solve problems. Members include companies such as United and Airbus. Throughout her remarks, Clemmons Stott emphasized that Illinois has worked to create a policy environment that encourages innovation and long-term investment.
“Innovative legislation creates an innovative business climate,” she said.
Building on those themes, Stuart's presentation, “Building on Success: Advancing Illinois' Aerospace Economy,” focused on the broader advantages that continue to make Illinois, and particularly southwestern Illinois, an attractive destination for aerospace companies considering expansion or relocation.
Stuart noted that while incentives remain an important part of economic development efforts, companies also evaluate other key factors when making investment decisions.
“Cost matters; I know that, but other things do too,” Stuart said. “The workforce, transportation, the supply chain and the ability for future growth. And I think that Illinois has a pretty compelling case in all of those areas.”
She highlighted Illinois' strategic location and multimodal transportation network, including its extensive highway, rail, waterway and aviation infrastructure, as significant advantages for aerospace manufacturers, suppliers and logistics providers. Stuart also emphasized the importance of viewing aerospace as a complete ecosystem that creates opportunities extending far beyond aircraft production.
“I think we have to think about aerospace as the entire ecosystem, instead of just individual companies,” she said. “If a major aerospace company invests somewhere, there's other opportunities that come along with that.”
Stuart also pointed to Illinois' network of universities, community colleges and workforce training programs as a key differentiator for employers looking to establish or expand operations in the state. She highlighted the Employer Training Investment Program, which helps companies train employees in emerging technologies and technical skills.
“It's really vital in the aerospace industry where new production methods and technology are being constantly developed,” Stuart said. “We're going to help you reduce the cost of the investment because we're preparing that workforce for you for the future.”
Collectively, the sessions demonstrated how state leaders are creating an environment where aerospace companies can invest, innovate and grow for the long term.
Over the two days of the event, Summit attendees participated in a career fail, business expo, networking opportunities, presentations and panel discussions focused on topics ranging from autonomous systems, sustainable aviation fuels and defense technologies to advanced manufacturing, air cargo movement and economic growth. Together, those conversations explored how the St. Louis region can continue building on its momentum and strengthen its role as a nationally significant aerospace and defense center while fostering new connections. The Global Aerospace Summit is presented by the Leadership Council Southwestern Illinois; Madison County, Illinois; St. Clair County, Illinois; and Bi-State Development’s St. Louis Regional Freightway.
To learn more about the 2026 Global Aerospace Summit, visit: https://leadershipcouncilswil.com/gas2026/.
Media Contact: Julie Hauser, 314-629-3887 (cell)
