Small businesses across Illinois are the bedrock of their communities. One in particular, Boyd's New Generation in Springfield, exemplifies the lasting impact of minority-owned businesses on the state's economy.

Many residents from all walks of life call the family-owned soul food eatery home. For nearly 30 years, the warm welcome and Southern fare have brought generations of loyal customers returning to Boyd's door.

This month Made in Illinois has a tasty feature. There has been a growing trend throughout the United States putting an emphasis on farm-to-table, all-natural foods. Gridley Meats in McLean County is playing its part in establishing the trend right here in Illinois.

It is a family-owned business that literally has its meat making down to a science. Iyad Abbed, who is one of the cofounders, is one of six brothers and one of two who work at the company. A third brother is currently in school studying meat science so he can contribute to helping pair unique flavors.

It’s the simplicity of their product, however, that leads to the complexity. Their brats are a simple mixture of spices and Black Angus beef. Unlike other similar products, they don’t add water to them, which can cause brats to shrink during cooking. In other words, what you get is what you get.  

From the local farm to the local market Gridley Meats has a new approach to keeping it fresh.

Read the story below straight from Iyad Abbed himself.  

Illinois leads all other states in green building design, construction and transformation for the third year in a row, according to new rankings announced.

The U.S. Green Building Council each year reveals the top 10 states for LEED-certified spaces. LEED stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design.

Throughout history Illinois has been a top state for agricultural production. Illinois, once again, was a top state in agricultural production in 2015.

Soybean production in Illinois continued to be excellent after matching a 2014 state record. At 56 bushels per acre, Illinois produced more than 544 million bushels of soybeans. A top commodity for its many uses, including soy sauce, soy milk and tofu, Illinois was the second largest soy bean-producing state only behind Iowa at 56.5 bushels per acre for a total output of 554 million bushels.

Illinois is home to many unique and exciting businesses. JAVA & Co. is an example of one with a fun and interesting history.

Brain and Jamie Knoll have a rich history and background working in restaurants and hospitality. When they came to Illinois to renovate a house from the 1800s, they thought they were only going to stick around for a little while. Now, they are the proud owners and operators to JAVA & Co., a company that specializes in flavor- infused syrups.

Read the story below from the co-owner herself. Jamie Knoll tells the story of two business savvy individuals who traversed the country to settle in Illinois to make tasty syrups and more.