Local Business Headlines

  “The Power Within: Reclaim, Restore and Rise” is the theme for the 2026 Illinois ACE Women’s Network Conference at Southern Illinois University Carbondale on March 2 and registration is now underway. Women from throughout the state who are interested in education are welcome to participate in this engaging day of conversation about the power of women…

New pathways in psychology, art, biology, business and accounting to strengthen higher ed access, affordability Blackburn College and Lewis and Clark Community College have signed the first in a series of articulation agreements, expanding access to affordable, high-quality bachelor’s degrees through clear transfer pathways. The agreement was signed during a ceremony on Thursday, Feb. 5,…

  The Gateway Apprenticeship Hub has officially reached its lifetime federal grant goal, enrolling 750 registered apprentices in just under four years. The milestone reflects the strength of regional partnerships and the growing impact of Registered Apprenticeship Programs across the St. Louis region. Launched in 2022 with funding from the U.S. Department of Labor, the…

Patrick Smith Sr., president of Ameren Illinois, is shown in the accompanying photo as he makes a contribution on Friday morning, Feb. 13, to support the 26th annual Hardee’s Rise and Shine for Heat biscuit fundraiser held in several locations in Illinois and Missouri. Smith gives his donation to an Ameren volunteer, Gemma Flores-Olivas. Ameren…

First Mid Bank & Trust (First Mid) has once again been recognized on Forbes’ list of America’s Best Banks, earning a ranking of #2 in Illinois and #24 nationwide for 2026. The annual list, compiled by Forbes in partnership with S&P Global Market Intelligence, evaluates U.S. banks based on key financial performance measures, including growth,…

The fifth annual Ice Jam at the Dam winter festival, will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Feb. 21, 2026, at the National Great Rivers Museum in Alton. The festival will highlight winter experiences that can be had along the Mississippi River, along with live music, free animal meet-and-greets, eagle watching, and more.…

Quick, non-invasive scan gives patients and doctors a clearer picture of heart health OSF HealthCare Saint Anthony’s Health Center is now offering a CT cardiac calcium scoring test. This non-invasive test, conducted through OSF Saint Anthony’s Imaging Services helps doctors gain a clearer picture of a patient’s overall heart health. Patients with one or more…

Illinois American Water recently announced the launch of the American Water Charitable Foundation 2026 Water and Environment Grant Program. The foundation invites community partners to apply for grants that promote clean water, conservation, environmental education, climate variability and water-based recreation projects. Applications will be accepted through March 6, 2026. Learn more about the American Water…

The St. Louis Regional Freightway recently released the Madison County Manufacturing and Logistics Industry Overview, which was developed in collaboration with the economic development and community development teams at Madison County. Located in the northeast portion of the St. Louis metropolitan area, Madison County is one of the largest counties in the bi-state region in…