BUFFALO GROVE – State Senator Adriane Johnson celebrated the entrepreneurial spirit, innovation and community leadership of local businesses during the 30 Wonders of the 30th District: Business Edition recognition ceremony held Sunday at the historic Cuneo Mansion in Vernon Hills.
“Each of these businesses represents what makes the 30th District strong — resilience, creativity and a willingness to invest back into the community,” said Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove). “The 30 Wonders project is about gratitude – gratitude for the entrepreneurs, workers and leaders who make the 30th District a place where families can thrive and opportunities can grow.”
This year’s event welcomed special guests McKenzie Hess and Joseph McKeown from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, who shared valuable information about the state resources and programs available to support businesses of all sizes across Illinois.
Johnson also recognized the presence of Dr. Michael Behnam, dean of Loyola University Chicago’s Quinlan School of Business, who brought greetings on behalf of Loyola and spoke about the university’s commitment to preparing future business leaders and fostering partnerships with businesses in the 30th District.
Additionally, Congressman Brad Schneider of Illinois’ 10th Congressional District joined the celebration, offering special remarks and assisting with honoring this year’s awardees.
The annual initiative, now in its third year, spotlights standout organizations that contribute to the economic vitality, cultural richness and overall wellbeing of communities across the 30th District. This year’s edition focused exclusively on businesses across four categories — micro, small, medium, and large — capturing the diverse ecosystem that sustains districts economic health and cultural identity.
This year’s wonders included early-childhood education institutions, bakeries, cafés, nonprofits, transportation providers, creative studios, health care organizations, credit unions, global manufacturers and more. Four additional businesses received special recognition as “Wonderful Mentions.”
“Behind every storefront, every service and every idea is a story — a story of someone who chose to believe in their community,” said Johnson. “It is my honor to uplift the people who strengthen our local economy, create jobs, and help define the character of the 30th District.”
Businesses recognized this year are featured on a digital booklet, here.
