Creating an environment through smart public policy where technology companies can grow and consumers have access to innovative, new products and services is part of the Illinois Technology Partnership’s mission.

This year, ITP advocated for several forward thinking technology polices and had great success in Springfield.

On June 15, Governor Quinn signed legislation to modernize our state’s 25-year old telecommunications laws. Updates to this important economic policy will spur investment in broadband and trigger economic growth and job creation in Illinois.

Two weeks later, he signed SB 3655, which continues a 6.5 percent tax credit for Illinois companies to cover new technology and product development. This is good news for Illinois’ economy. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, every dollar of tax credit leads to a dollar in research in development.

Finally, ITP advocated for the Illinois Innovation Zone Act which will help existing technology companies grow in Illinois and also attract new businesses to our state through tax incentives, loans and financial assistance. The bill has been sent to the Governor and is currently awaiting his signature.

ITP looks forward to continuing to work with our more than 2,500 consumer members, advisory board partners, business and industry leaders and state policymakers to ensure Illinois remains a place where technology businesses and consumers are proud to call home.