Illinois Made recognizes 30 small businesses

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — Thirty small businesses ranging from bakeries and breweries to retail shops and farms have been recognized as part of the Illinois Made program.

Each year, the Illinois Office of Tourism selects a group of small businesses that exemplify the hidden gems, experiences and one-of-a-kind products that make Illinois a great place to explore for residents and visitors alike.

“I couldn’t be prouder to announce the 2022 Illinois Makers class — the most representative of our diverse state since the inception of the Illinois Made program,” said Gov. J.B. Pritzker.

“Here in Illinois, we have it all: stunning wood carvings, mouthwatering pastries and the most delicious barbecue in the nation — all thanks to our small businesses. I encourage all residents and visitors to check out the 30 latest Makers that make Illinois, Illinois.”

“Small businesses are the backbone of our Illinois economy, and their distinctive products and experiences help make communities unique and provide locals and visitors alike with many reasons to explore our great state,” said Sylvia Garcia, director of the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, which includes the Illinois Office of Tourism.

“We are thrilled to have the most diverse group of new Illinois Makers this year, who offer products made in Illinois and that highlight their craft, history and unique experiences.”

The Illinois Made program encourages residents and visitors to discover the people, products and authentic experiences created by small businesses throughout the state.

The program, which features 236 Makers, continues to drive tourism to every region of the state.

The new Makers include the following businesses by region:

Chicago And The Suburbs

• Arcely’s Bakery — Melrose Park, Franklin Park, Villa Park and Cicero

• Atrevete Confections — Montgomery

• Chocolate Inspirations — Roselle

• Dairyhäus — Rockton

• Dangela’s Dumplings — Libertyville

• Gindo’s Spice of Life — St. Charles

• Happy Apple Pie — Oak Park

• Life on Mars Goods — Chicago

• Morkes Chocolates — Palatine

• Pickard China — Antioch

• Soul and Smoke — Evanston

• South Side Blooms — Chicago

Northwest And Southwest Illinois

• Ardor Breads and Provisions — Peoria

• Aria’s Cookies & Confections LLC — East Alton

• Black Band — Peoria

• Boetje’s Mustard — Rock Island

• Forgottonia Brewing — Macomb

• Galena Bakehouse — Galena

• Galena Spoon Company — Galena

• JK Williams— Peoria

• Marie’s Wood Carvings — Stockton

• Old Herald Brewery and Distillery — Collinsville

• Three Rivers Community Farm — Elsah

• Yeni’s Palarte Mexican Ice Cream — Peoria Heights

Southern Illinois

• Big Muddy Peddler — De Soto

• Bryn’s Cookie Bin — Mount Vernon

• Davis Pastry — Anna

• StarView Vineyards — Cobden

Central Illinois

• Ace Sign Company and Sign Museum — Springfield

• Joe Sippers Cafe — Effingham

The Illinois Office of Tourism encourages residents to nominate businesses for the Illinois Made program.

To learn more, visit EnjoyIllinois.com/IllinoisMade.