KENOSHA — Last year, Eli Lilly announced a $3 billion expansion of its manufacturing operations in Pleasant Prairie, the company's largest footprint outside Indiana. Once fully operational, Lilly expects to bring 750 new high-skill jobs to the area.

Local economic leaders say that milestone — combined with the company's national attention — is sending a message far beyond Wisconsin.

Nicole Ryf with the Kenosha Area Business Alliance says companies like Eli Lilly help solidify the county's reputation as a serious hub for advanced manufacturing and investment.

"When you have a company like Lilly come here, they're validating Kenosha County as a place to do business," Ryf said. "Other business leaders see that and say, 'maybe this is a place I should be looking at.'"

Ryf says the momentum

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