SPRINGFIELD, IL (Chambana Today) – The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), through its Office of Tourism, has announced the addition of 20 new small businesses to the prestigious Illinois Made program, celebrating the artisans, creators, and entrepreneurs whose work embodies the spirit and cultural richness of the state.

Since its launch in 2016, Illinois Made has honored locally owned businesses that offer authentic, one-of-a-kind experiences and products that reflect Illinois’ distinctive character. With this new class of Makers, the program now showcases a total of 277 businesses across the state.

This year’s selections highlight a diverse mix of industries, from U-pick lavender farms in Edwardsville to handcrafted harps in Chicago, vegan baked goods in Batavia, and traditional Mexican cuisine in Little Village. Each of these businesses is deeply rooted in its community and contributes to Illinois’ growing reputation as a destination for travelers seeking authentic, local experiences.

“Small businesses are the heartbeat of Illinois’ economy, and the Illinois Made program supports the local artisans who help define our state’s unique character,” said DCEO Director Kristin Richards. “This year’s class of Illinois Makers reflects the creativity and craftsmanship found in every corner of our state.”

The 2025 Illinois Made Makers include:

  • Bee Coco Candle – Geneva*
  • CrumbCrusher Cupcakes – Oak Park*
  • Fill My Jar LLC – Brookfield*
  • Gerry’s Cafe – Arlington Heights*
  • Go Brewing – Naperville*
  • La Catedral Café & Restaurant – Chicago*
  • Lyon & Healy Harps – Chicago
  • New Moon Vegan – Batavia*
  • Noon Whistle Brewing – Lombard & Naperville
  • Primitives by Olde Lady Morgan – Bartlett*
  • Rosewood Farm – Sugar Grove*
  • Soapy Roads – Lombard*
  • StringWorks Inc. – Geneva
  • Leaf Livestock Wool Co. – Geneseo*
  • Tenderloin Farms Lavender – Edwardsville*
  • Tres Rojas Winery – Washington*
  • Sarah Beth’s Homemade Dips – Hanna City*
  • Ceramics Made by Rosie – Springfield*
  • Whimsey Tea Company – Springfield
  • Pink Tiger Farm – Goreville*

Businesses marked with an asterisk (*) represent those that are woman-owned, LGBTQIA+-owned, and/or minority-owned, reflecting the state’s commitment to diversity and inclusion.

For more details about the program or to nominate a small business for future consideration, visit enjoyillinois.com.