How to Buy, Sell or Invest in a Manufacturing Business in Illinois
Manufacturing has long been a cornerstone of Illinois’ economy, playing a vital role in shaping the state’s identity and supporting its communities. From the industrial boom of the early 20th century to today’s high-tech, precision-driven operations, Illinois remains a national leader in manufacturing output and employment. The state is home to over 13,000 manufacturing firms that produce everything from food products and chemicals to machinery, metal parts, and electronics. This diverse manufacturing base benefits from Illinois’ central location, extensive transportation infrastructure, and access to major markets across North America.
Beyond its economic contributions, manufacturing in Illinois is continually evolving through innovation and advanced technologies. Many companies are investing in automation, robotics, and sustainable practices to increase efficiency and reduce environmental impact. The sector also drives significant workforce development efforts, partnering with community colleges and technical schools to train workers in modern manufacturing skills. Together, these factors ensure that Illinois remains at the forefront of American manufacturing, blending its rich industrial heritage with forward-thinking solutions to meet the demands of a changing global market.
How US MFG Supports Illinois Manufacturing
At US MFG, we empower Illinois manufacturing businesses through a collaborative network that connects operators, entrepreneurs, and future business owners. Our mission is to combat the decline in manufacturing by preserving the legacy of local firms, ensuring job security for the employees who built them, and fostering economic growth in our communities. We provide a streamlined retirement solution for business owners, facilitating the seamless transfer of ownership to committed buyers who will continue operations, support local communities, and drive long-term growth in Illinois manufacturing.
US MFG can work with firms in the top manufacturing cities in Illinois:
- Chicago
- Elk Grove Village
- Elgin
- Decatur
- Aurora
- Lisle
- Schaumburg
- Naperville
- Downers Grove
- Wheeling
- Rockford
How We Help Manufacturing Businesses Throughout Illinois
For Owners - How to Sell Your Illinois Manufacturing Business
If you’re a manufacturing business owner preparing for retirement and want to ensure your legacy endures, US MFG Network offers specialized support to help you sell your business. Focusing on companies generating $500k–$15M in annual sales, US MFG connects sellers with qualified buyers who value innovation, employee development, and community impact. Rather than closing your business or liquidating assets, which ends the legacy you’ve built, US MFG helps match your company with buyers dedicated to maintaining its culture and success.
Beyond facilitating a sale, US MFG emphasizes caring for your employees and customers. Our approach includes employee ownership opportunities to create lasting wealth and job security, while customers benefit from expanded resources within a larger manufacturing network. Additionally, the Ambassador Program connects sellers with peers who have already navigated the process, offering guidance and reassurance. By creatively using equity to attract committed entrepreneurs and offering employees ownership stakes, US MFG helps owners retire confidently while ensuring their businesses continue to grow and thrive.
For Business Buyers - How to Buy a Manufacturing Business in Illinois
If you’re an experienced manufacturing professional or an internal leader ready to step into business ownership, US MFG Network offers a path to acquire existing manufacturing businesses. Through our extensive network, we connect aspiring owners with established businesses whose retiring founders are seeking successors committed to preserving their legacy. This model not only helps you transition into ownership with an operational head start but also enables you to drive innovation, support local communities, and positively impact employees who’ve helped build the business.
US MFG also addresses the broader challenge of succession planning in American manufacturing, where nearly half of Baby Boomer-owned small and mid-sized firms lack a transition plan and risk closure upon owner retirement. Our “New Dream” model supports modern entrepreneurs who value purpose and balance over mere profit by providing acquisition guidance, financing expertise, legal and operational support, and a community of like-minded business owners. This approach empowers new owners to focus on growth and meaningful impact without being overwhelmed by administrative burdens, offering both flexibility and the chance to build lasting equity.
For Investors - How to Invest in an Illinois Manufacturing Business
US MFG Network offers unique investment opportunities focused on preserving and revitalizing American manufacturing. By investing in established manufacturing businesses transitioning to new leadership, investors can help maintain operational excellence while strengthening community ties and safeguarding jobs. This approach targets small and medium-sized manufacturers whose Baby Boomer owners are nearing retirement, many of whom lack succession plans and risk closure. Your investment supports these businesses as they move to capable new owners, helping preserve their legacy and keep them as vital contributors to local economies.
Beyond ownership transitions, US MFG actively grows these businesses into strategic investments by acquiring and optimizing operations through standardization and proprietary management software. This platform connects facilities, shares skilled labor, and efficiently distributes workloads, unlocking scalability while maintaining local impact. Investors benefit from lower risk and steady growth, while businesses gain resources and stability. Through creative equity strategies, US MFG incentivizes entrepreneurs to invest confidently, fostering thriving companies where employees also gain ownership, benefits, and improved work environments.
Contact US MFG
Illinois remains a powerful force in American manufacturing thanks to its rich industrial history, strategic location, and commitment to innovation and workforce development. At US MFG Network, we are dedicated to supporting this legacy by helping manufacturing business owners retire without closing their doors, empowering new leaders to step into ownership, and offering investors meaningful opportunities to strengthen local economies. By connecting experienced entrepreneurs, thoughtful investors, and retiring owners who care deeply about their businesses, we help ensure that manufacturing in Illinois continues to thrive for generations to come.
If you’re a business owner looking to secure your legacy, an entrepreneur eager to lead an established company, or an investor ready to support local industry, now is the time to act. Partner with US MFG Network and become part of a community that preserves what matters most, innovation, jobs, and the spirit of American manufacturing. Contact us today to learn how you can help shape the future of manufacturing in Illinois and beyond.
Reversing America’s manufacturing decline and helping owners retire
We are transforming American manufacturing. Our team is building a network of entrepreneurs/operators to allow existing owners to retire, to ensure employees keep their jobs, and to allow customers to have even more manufacturing resources at their disposal. We are building a nationwide network of manufacturers businesses to take advantage of scale by bringing them together under one collaborative organization.