SouthernIllinoisNow

Southern Illinois is proof that people make the place. The connections, the care, and the commitment to one another are what turn towns into communities and communities into something truly special.

During National Mentoring Month, we’re highlighting regional partners across Southern Illinois who provide mentorship, training, and career guidance for students and jobseekers. Their work strengthens career pathways and helps build a skilled, future-ready workforce.

What does economic development really look like in Southern Illinois? 🎙️ Small Town, Big Business dives into the stories behind the progress, featuring local leaders and real-world insights. 👉 Start listening: loom.ly/pvbyX4M

Southern Illinois is proving that bigger isn’t always better. New 2025 national rankings show our micropolitan communities outperforming major metros in workforce strength and economic momentum. 🔗 Read the full story. loom.ly/_veryFY

When businesses step up, momentum follows. We’re proud to recognize Oasis Outdoors as a Founder Partner of SI Now and grateful for their investment in the future of Southern Illinois. Interested in becoming a partner? Email director@southernillinoisnow.org to learn more.

This National Mentoring Month, we’re highlighting Southern Illinois companies that go beyond hiring to invest in people. Through mentoring and upskilling, Aisin Illinois, Intertape Polymer Group, and Gilster-Mary Lee are creating real career pathways and stronger communities.

If you love Southern Illinois, you’ll love the SI Now newsletter. It’s your go-to source for stories worth sharing and progress worth celebrating. 📬 Subscribe today: loom.ly/JV6Fp4Q

“This is the secret sauce for my happiness.” Living where you work. Working where you care. Stories like Dori Bigler’s remind us why Southern Illinois communities are so special.

During National Mentoring Month, we’re highlighting Southern Illinois colleges and universities that pair education with mentorship—connecting students to real careers in fields like engineering, healthcare, and more. Thank you to the educators shaping our future workforce.

From workforce development to infrastructure and innovation, Small Town, Big Business explores the strategies driving economic growth across Southern Illinois. 🎧 Catch the latest conversations here: loom.ly/pvbyX4M

When organizations invest in people and place, the impact ripples across the region. Proud to recognize SIH as a Visionary Partner of SI Now and grateful for their role in strengthening Southern Illinois. Interested in partnering? Email director@southernillinoisnow.org

🌟 Mentor Monday Spotlight 🌟 During National Mentoring Month, we’re celebrating local CEO programs that connect Southern Illinois students with real mentors, real businesses, and hands-on experience—helping build the next generation of leaders and entrepreneurs.

Want the inside scoop on Southern Illinois? The SI Now newsletter brings you real stories, real people, and real progress—every month. 📬 Join the list: loom.ly/JV6Fp4Q

New year. New momentum. As we step into 2026, we’re excited to continue spotlighting the innovation, talent, and community pride that make Southern Illinois strong.

Southern Illinois is building a film workforce ready for the big screen! See how local partnerships are driving opportunity and creativity across the region. 🎬 📖 loom.ly/i6T_Bx0 #SouthernIllinoisNow #FilmInSI #CreativeEconomy

From hometown lights to holiday traditions, Southern Illinois shines brightest this time of year. Merry Christmas to all who make this region unforgettable. ✨ #SouthernIllinoisNow #MerryChristmas

Southern Illinois is full of momentum, with new businesses, inspiring leaders, and stories that bring us together. Don’t miss a beat with the SI NOW newsletter. Sign up today. 📬 loom.ly/JV6Fp4Q #SouthernIllinoisNow

Big news for Southern Illinois! The Delta Regional Authority is investing $3.1M+ in 12 projects through SEDAP—supporting job creation, workforce training, infrastructure, and community growth across the region. A win for one is a win for all. Learn more: loom.ly/VhYlbts

From innovative training to hands-on experience, Rend Lake College’s Culinary Arts Program is shaping a skilled, creative workforce for Southern Illinois’ growing hospitality industry. Get the full story in NOW! Magazine: 👉 southernillinoisnow.org/now-magazine #SouthernIllinoisNow

We’re excited to welcome Pepsi MidAmerica as our newest Champion Partner! 🎉 Their investment in community and regional growth helps move Southern Illinois forward. Huge thanks to ALL our partners investing in Southern Illinois’ growth. Learn more: loom.ly/w8aw9YE