Touring Hawk Technology in Rock Island on Tuesday, Illinois Gov. Bruce Rauner admires its success.
But it's hard to grow in the global economy without a state budget.
"Worker's comp, tort reform, those are things that really need to be resolved for Illinois to compete from a manufacturing standpoint," said CEO Mark Ross.
That's why Gov. Rauner says he's fighting for the future of his state.
But eight months into a budget stalemate, there's no sign of a solution.
Republicans and Democrats remain at a standoff over his turnaround agenda and tax hikes.
"It's an outrage that we don't have a state budget," he told 150 business leaders. "Let's be clear. It is ridiculous."
That ridiculous situation will be in the national spotlight on Wednesday.
That's when President Obama comes to Springfield to call for better politics.
Gov. Rauner hopes that will also include a discussion of term limits and redistricting reforms.
"Talk about the importance of bipartisan compromise to get things done," he said. "I hope he won't say, let's do things like we do in Washington, D.C., because that's not good."
Gov. Rauner says that streamlining Illinois government and spending can pump millions back into schools and social services.
"We don't have to raise taxes," he said. "We don't have to cut services. Let's do government the right way."
But with no deal in sight, the governor must prepare his next budget address without even having one in place.
"Let's not do that again," he cautioned. "Let's get in a room and compromise."
With about 75 local jobs, a company like Hawk Technology continues to grow.
But a state budget is vital to promote the business climate in Illinois.
"It would be hard to operate a business without a budget," Ross concluded. "I think the sooner they get it done, the better for everybody."