SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — Governor Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) today announced that 30 small businesses or ‘Makers’ have been recognized as part of the “Illinois Made” program and one of them is in Mt. Vernon.

Bryn’s Cookie Bin at 734 Salem Road in Mt. Vernon offers freshly baked cookies, cupcakes, and other delicious items. Bryn’s Cookie Bin joins other Southern and Central Illinois businesses as being recognized.

Davis Pastry in Anna, StarView Vineyards in Cobden, Big Muddy Peddler in DeSoto and Joe Sippers Café in Effingham are included on the list of small businesses considered Makers.

Each year, the Illinois Office of Tourism selects a group of small businesses that exemplify the hidden gems, experiences and one-of-a-kind products that make Illinois a great place to explore for residents and visitors alike.

Four of the five businesses recognized in Southern and Central Illinois are owned by women or people of color.

The 2022 Illinois Makers class represents the most diverse since the program’s inception, with more than 60 percent of businesses owned by women or people of color.

From French pastries to elegant, handcrafted Chinaware – each of the Illinois Makers featured help inspire travel throughout the state.

This year, 19 of the businesses represented are owned by women and/or people of color, more than any “Illinois Made” class to date.