Collinsville is open for business, that is part of the message the city’s Economic Development Commission gave at their sixth annual “Evening with the EDC.”

Congressman John Shimkus and Collinsville Director of Economic Development/TIF Erika Kennett / Photo by Alene Hill

The event promotes Collinsville to brokers, developers, bankers and anyone involved in business. Collinsville city leaders mingled with at least 200 business persons from the city and the region to let them know that Collinsville has a progressive attitude toward business, City of Collinsville Director of Economic Development/TIF, Erika Kennett said.

“It’s telling that people want to learn more about Collinsville and take time from their busy schedule to find out what Collinsville is all about,” Kennett said.

Congressman John Shimkus was a guest speaker at the event, paid for solely by sponsorships, and held at the Gateway Center. Shimkus praised the business owners in attendance, saying the state and federal government are not always their allies.

“You all are fighting for your communities. Sometimes we help, sometimes we don’t,” Shimkus said. “You guys are carrying the load and you don’t always get a lot of credit for it.”

Kennett called the event a kick-off meeting, the beginning of a process that will include smaller, informational meetings with groups of bankers, construction companies, realtors and others.

The evening also marked the unveiling of the Economic Development Commissions new brand, “Destination Collinsville – the heart of Southwestern Illinois.”