GWDC Information

The Greater Waukegan Development Coalition, now GWDC, is a community development organization that fosters economic development in economically challenged communities. Because research has found that no one initiative or program can revitalize a community on its own, GWDC focuses on holistic economic and community development grounded in the values and resources of each community. We currently run eight programs focused on revitalizing the economy in the greater Chicago region. GWDC Develops brings local stakeholders & developers together to re-imagine and revitalize their downtowns or other economically challenged areas. The Lake County Tech HUB provides critical mentorship to aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners in Lake County Illinois, who are trying to launch or grow a small business. GWDC Invests brings together banking institutions in Greater Waukegan area to help entrepreneurs and small business owners with access to funding. SelectChicago helps local businesses and economies grow through partnerships with foreign companies & capital from foreign investors in collaboration with communities in the greater Chicago region. Green World Development Center is our new initiative fostering green technologies, green building and green jobs. Spanning from local procurement training to recruiting next generation energy products from around the world to be used to reduce greenhouse emissions. The HUB Studios provides a multimedia recording space for small businesses in Greater Waukegan, as well as coaching and mentoring on effective video use for business. The Ray Bradbury Experience Museum is an experiential museum dedicated to hometown author Ray Bradbury. Programming centers on Ray Bradbury's roots in Waukegan, his role in shaping the 20th century, and his vision for a better future. GWDC Celebrates is a summer series of multicultural festivals & events that bring residents together to celebrate, build community, and enjoy local amenities.