Chicago Metro Metal Consortium and IMEC Announce Manufacturing Matchmaking Events

Industrial matching events will connect manufacturing suppliers and end users in the Chicago region The Chicago Metro Metal Consortium, organized by the Cook County Bureau of Economic Development in partnership with IMEC, annouces a series of “Manufacturing Matchmaking” events in Cook, DuPage, Kane, Kendall, Lake, McHenry and Will Counties to increase sales opportunities for firms in primary metals, metal fabricating, metal working and machinery industries. The series of matchmaking and networking events, to be held throughout northeastern Illinois, will represent “speed-dating” opportunities for suppliers and end users. Participating firms from across the region have a structured opportunity to network with potential customers and suppliers by sharing information, samples and more. The first event is scheduled for December 9th in Chicago. On behalf of the the Chicago Metro Manufacturing Metal Consortium, we are pleased to partner with IMEC to launch this series of events across the region which will support the growth of the metal manufacturing cluster in northeastern Illinois,” said Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle. Manufacturing participants are confident this format helps connect them with the right partners. Jim Mechowski, Sales Manager for IVP Plastics describes his experience at a recent matchmaking event in Illinois saying, “Finding new regional manufacturing partners allows a fast track to success, and we have found those partners through the matchmaking forums.” In addition to the benefits of one-on-one meetings with manufacturers , David Boulay, President of IMEC, expresses the importance for the regional strength of the manufacturing communities. “Strengthening regional supply chains is a wise strategy for businesses to mitigate risks and costs, resulting in growth opportunities for our workforce and communities. We are excited about the Consortium’s efforts to convene around the supply networks that are the lifeblood of manufacturing and our economy.” The Chicago metro region is one of the nation's top metal manufacturing regions. Currently, there are more than 3,700 metal and machining firms in the region employing more than 100,000 people and generating $30 billion in annual revenue. The Chicago Metro Manufacturing Consortium’s goal is to assist companies involved in metals and manufacturing increase their revenues and productivity. The first event in the series will take place on December 9th at the University of Illinois at Chicago Student Center East, 750 S. Halsted Street, Chicago, IL 60607 from 9:00AM to 1:00PM. Participation is free but advance registration is required. All appointments are scheduled on a first come, first served registration basis; organizers will try to accommodate all requests. Additional program support is provided by the Cook County Bureau of Economic Development, IMEC and Made in Illinois – highlighting the diversity of products made in the state and celebrating the companies that manufacture them.