Business Employment Skills Team, Inc. (BEST, Inc.) would like to remind all Illinois employers that on January 1, 2021 the minimum wage will increase to $11.00 an hour.   This increase is different for other occupations; $6.60 per hour for tips, and $8.50 per hour for youth under age 18 working less than 650 hours each calendar year.   This is the third increase in the minimum wage that was signed into legislation by Governor JB Pritzker and passed by the Illinois General Assembly on February 19, 2019, to support a goal of a $15.00 minimum wage by 2025. 

“I invite employers to contact me to see how BEST, Inc. programs can help them staff and grow their businesses.” said Dianna Schuler, Business Services Manager of BEST, Inc.  Schuler went on to say “BEST, Inc. has many tools to help employers improve their bottom line and upskill their current workforce.”

BEST, Inc. assists in helping adults, dislocated workers, and youth gain meaningful employment with job search assistance, paid On-the-Job Training (OJT) and paid Work Experience.  BEST, Inc. has services for those affected by the Opioid Epidemic and can assist in the development of apprenticeship programs as well. 

BEST, Inc. is afederally-funded agency assisting local companies to thrive in today’s complex, competitive and ever-changing economy. Our professional staff will meet with employers to assess their needs and determine an appropriate implementation plan.

Best, Inc. serves the following areas: Bureau, Carroll, Jo Daviess, LaSalle, Lee, Ogle, Putnam and Whiteside Counties. 

Due to COVID-19 restrictions BEST, Inc’s office are closed to walk-in traffic, however, our staff can assist you by appointment by calling 815-640-9406.