The Illinois Valley Industry Retention Program was conceived with the goals of retaining existing industries in the area and saving presently available jobs for the area's citizens. A program committee, formed in March 1982 of representatives from state government, Illinois Valley Community College (IVCC), and local businesses, undertook a survey to obtain information from local businesses concerning their site location, training needs, governmental assistance opportunities, markets, suppliers, perceptions of the advantages and disadvantages of doing business in the state, and plans for expansion. Survey findings, based on responses from 98 of the 144 firms sampled, included the following: (1) the responding firms employed a total of 11,976 workers; (2) 87% had made investments in equipment in the previous 3 years; (3) 40% were considering expanding and 3% had definite plans to expand in the next 3 years; (4) 34% reported that current employment in their plants was higher than 3 years earlier and 41% reported that it was lower; (5) 51% reported that their hiring level would be higher in 3 years, while 4% projected that it would be lower; (6) 56% rated local government toward business as cooperative; and (7) workers' compensation and unemployment taxes were the issues of greatest concern to the survey respondents. Recommendations reflecting industry concerns at the local, state and federal levels and the survey instruments are included in the study report. (HB)