Sauk Valley Under 40

Sauk Valley Under 40  (formerly known as the Keystone Group) is a joint initiative of the Sauk Valley Area Chamber of Commerce and Sterling Main Street.  Established in 2018 to amplify the voices of individuals under the age of 40, Sauk Valley Under 40 is where the next generation of leaders, doers, and difference-makers come together. We connect ambitious individuals under the age of 40 from across the Sauk Valley who are ready to build meaningful relationships, grow personally and professionally, and play an active role in shaping the future of our region.

Whether you’re a young professional, entrepreneur, skilled tradesperson, nonprofit advocate, remote worker, or community volunteer, this is your space to plug in. Through engaging social events, hands-on community involvement, leadership development opportunities, and authentic peer connections, Sauk Valley Under 40 is building a strong, supportive network that invests in both people and place.

We believe the future of the Sauk Valley depends on the people who choose to show up for it. This group exists to make that easy — and fun.

Sauk Valley Under 40 is open to anyone under 40 who lives or works anywhere in the Sauk Valley region — no specific town required. and is accessible to emerging leaders across all industries and backgrounds.

Come build your network. Find your people. Make your mark.

 

Upcoming Sauk Valley Under 40 Events

Lunch ‘n’ Learn • Build Your Personal Brand

Tuesday, September 22, 2026 • 11:30AM – 1:00 PM
@Sauk Valley Community College 

Preregistration Required, $20 per person – Lunch included

Contact us, or sign up HERE to received updates. 

Sauk Valley Under 40 in the news...

L-R: SVACC Director Dallas Knack, SVu40 Steering Committee Members Cael Sanders, Gracie Young, Ethan Harrington and Main Street Director Janna Groharing
During the Sauk Valley Area Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Dinner in January 2026, the inaugural Sauk Valley Under 40 Emerging Leader Award was proudly presented to Gracie Young of Sauk Valley Bank. As a member of the SVU40 steering committee, Gracie has risen to the occasion over the past year, playing a key role in rebranding and reinvigorating the group. She combines her expertise with a genuine attentiveness to her peers, helping shape new events and initiatives that reflect the feedback and interests of the group. Gracie’s passion for the Sauk Valley region is contagious—she actively highlights the area’s many offerings and inspires her colleagues to get involved. She is always armed with a professional development tip, a life hack for combating burnout, or a TikTok trend that we all have to try. Though early in her leadership journey, Gracie is already making a meaningful impact and setting a standard for emerging leaders in our community.
Congratulations, Gracie!
 
Sauk Valley Under 40 was also recognized in November 2025 by Illinois Main Street during the Lt. Governor Awards for Excellence in Revitalization for Organization.  Read more here…
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