Tourism Attraction Grant Program

The Tourism Attraction Grant Program, administered by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, provides funding to develop or improve tourism attractions to increase the state's economic impact. With a total program funding estimate of 1.8 million dollars and individual awards ranging from 15,000 to 200,000 dollars, the program supports capital projects, equipment purchases, workforce training, and interpretive programs. Eligible attractions must be open to the public for at least 100 days per year, or 200 hours for event-driven sites, and must be marketed to visitors outside a 50-mile radius. The expected period of performance is from January 1, 2027, through December 31, 2027. Applicants must be registered in SAM.gov with a public profile, possess a valid Unique Entity Identifier, and be in good standing with the Illinois Secretary of State. The evaluation process focuses on project execution capacity, the ability to generate a return on investment within three years, marketing reach, budget reasonableness, and the potential for sustainable economic growth. Awardees must comply with the Prevailing Wage Act for construction projects and employ at least 90 percent Illinois laborers for public works. Applications are due by November 13, 2026, and must include a Uniform Grant Application, budget template, and signed conflict of interest and mandatory disclosures. Payment is managed through a variable advance and reimbursement system based on cash needs.