Illinois Innovation – Lemonheads, Juicy Fruit and more sweet treats!

Have you ever enjoyed a sour Lemonhead or a hot Atomic Fireball as a sweet treat? Both of those candies and more are a result of Illinois innovation!

Illinois has been the source of several sweet inventions throughout the state, while also being home to production centers for some of the largest, most iconic candy producers in the world.

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NANO Nuclear chooses Illinois for clean energy research, manufacturing hub

Illinois is continuing to position itself as a clean energy leader with the announcement that NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. will establish a manufacturing and research development facility in the state. The company is committing more than $12 million to this project, which is expected to generate 50 full-time jobs and advance next-generation nuclear energy technologies.

The new facility is located in the Chicagoland area and features a 23,537-square-foot site, including a 7,400-square-foot non-nuclear demonstration zone. It will support engineers, component manufacturers and researchers who will collaborate closely with the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign on NANO Nuclear’s flagship project, the KRONOS MMR™ Microreactor Energy System.

Illinois’ economic development program, Reimagining Energy and Vehicles, is backing the investment through tax credits tied to job creation and capital investment. This will reflect the state’s broader strategy to attract advanced manufacturing and clean energy companies.

Several factors made Illinois an appealing location for NANO Nuclear. The state is already a significant hub for nuclear electricity production and has deep academic and industrial infrastructure. The presence of well-established utilities and research institutions provides a strong ecosystem for innovation in nuclear power.

NANO Nuclear’s arrival places it among a growing list of clean tech companies choosing Illinois, including companies in advanced manufacturing and alternative energy sectors. As it takes shape, this facility is poised to contribute not only to job growth but also to new research breakthroughs that could help shape the future of energy in Illinois and beyond.

Nascar returns to Chicagoland Speedway

NASCAR will race at Chicagoland Speedway in 2026! The sport returns to the 1.5-mile facility for the first time in seven years, with the NASCAR Cup Series scheduled to race at the oval on July 5. The NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series will join the Cup Series for a points-paying race, slated to run on July 4.

In 2001, the gates to Chicagoland Speedway opened up for NASCAR, ARCA, IndyCar and the International Race of Champion. In total, 90 races have been held with Kyle Busch holding the most wins at the track for a total of 10. Tony Stewart leads all drivers with three wins at the 1.5-mile paved oval in the NASCAR Cup Series. Kevin Harvick has four wins in the NASCAR Xfinity Series, while Kyle Busch has five wins in the Craftsman Truck Series. Since the beginning, Chicagoland Speedway has produced some of the closest finishes in IndyCar history, the 2018 "Slide Job" between Kyle Busch and Kyle Larson during the Overton's 400 and the infamous orange rolling down the track during qualifying in 2004.

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Celebrating inclusivity in the classroom

You may have heard of Southern hospitality, but Illinois has earned recognition in its dedication to inclusiveness. Inclusivity is a quality many Illinoisans pride themselves on, ensuring that all people — regardless of their background or status — feel a sense of belonging. One such school in the Chicago suburb of Burbank was recently nationally recognized for its efforts in fostering inclusion among students.

This particular achievement is a true honor, especially during this time when appreciating and uplifting differences is vital. Luther Burbank Elementary received the Special Olympics Unified Champion National Banner Award for its Unified Robotics team and other inclusive programs.

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