Who We Are | What We Do
Great River Economic Development Foundation has been a driving force in Quincy, and Adams County, Illinois since 1978. Our number one priority is to retain existing businesses and help them grow. We assist prospective businesses, site consultants and entrepreneurs. We also take the lead in a variety of initiatives that contribute to the outstanding quality of life we enjoy here. And as our name “Great River” implies, we collaborate regionally with our neighbors along the Mississippi River in Western Illinois, Northeast Missouri and Southeast Iowa.
Our services are confidential. Our objective is to address retention issues and expedite the development process. This may include providing a basic demographic report or detailed site information, referring you to a contact in our community, or arranging meetings with appropriate parties at the local, county and state levels to help you achieve your goals.
We hope you will find the information on this website helpful, but it is our sincere belief that relationships matter. We welcome the opportunity to meet and talk with you personally.
History of GREDF
In 1977, a study was commissioned from the Batelle Institute for a comprehensive economic development program for the Quincy-Adams County, Illinois area. Based on the study, Great River Development Foundation was formed to coordinate a fund drive to establish an industrial park. The city and county with support from the community, raised funds to buy 106 acres for the Edward Schneidman Industrial Park, and bonds were issued to develop infrastructure.
The foundation then merged with the existing Joint Industrial Commission to form a single agency called Great River Economic Development Foundation to manage the park and launch an overall economic development campaign. Since 1978, GREDF has been the go-to agency for community and economic development-related activity in Quincy, Adams County and throughout the tri-state region.
Today the Schneidman Industrial Park is home to more than 20 businesses and 600 employees.