Gov. JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) will devote $2.4 million to supporting tourism. Under the Tourism Attraction Grant Program, $1.8 million is available to upgrade existing tourist attractions or create new ones.
The Tourism Private Sector Grant Program, meanwhile, has $600,000 to support events and festivals and to attract new initiatives of that kind. Under the Tourism Attraction Grant Program, applicants can receive between $15,000 and $200,000, with a matching contribution required at a 1:1 ratio for nonprofit organizations and 3:1 for commercial entities. Under the Tourism Private Sector Grant Program, applicants can seek between $10,000 and $50,000, with a 1:1 matching contribution required.
“From the 77 neighborhoods of Chicago, through the towns along historic Route 66, to the natural beauty of southern Illinois, every corner of our state has something special to offer,” Pritzker said. “Our tourist attractions and local festivals bring people together and support commerce in our towns and cities. This latest round of funding will help communities develop such places and events, attract more visitors and support local jobs,” the Illinois governor said.
According to DCEO, Illinois posted record hotel revenue of $372 million in fiscal year 2026, and in 2025 the state welcomed 115 million visitors, who spent $50.2 billion. “DCEO is committed to supporting the growth of a tourism-based economy,” said the department’s director, Kristin Richards. “Through our award-winning Enjoy Illinois campaign and programs like the ones we are announcing today, the state is investing in the continued growth of tourism across Illinois,” she added. Those who wish to apply for a grant should check the detailed information on the DCEO website.
BK
Source: Polski.FM
