Marketing Partnership Program – Cook County
Can you apply?
This grant is for Illinois tourism organizations and marketing partnerships that promote Illinois as a travel destination domestically and internationally. Eligible applicants typically include tourism bureaus, chambers of commerce, destination marketing organizations, and hospitality industry groups operating in Cook County. The program supports promotion and marketing activities that drive travel awareness and visitor spending to Illinois. Grant awards range from $10,000 to $100,000, with cost sharing required from applicants.
⚖️ Cost sharing / matching required — applicants must contribute their own funds.
This grant is for Illinois tourism organizations and marketing partnerships that promote Illinois as a travel destination domestically and internationally. Eligible applicants typically include tourism bureaus, chambers of commerce, destination marketing organizations, and hospitality industry groups operating in Cook County. The program supports promotion and marketing activities that drive travel awareness and visitor spending to Illinois. Grant awards range from $10,000 to $100,000, with cost sharing required from applicants.
Program description
Tourism promotes Illinois as Travel Destination, both domestically and internationally, to increase awareness of Illinois as a travel destination. The Illinois Office of Tourism (IOT) manages efforts that drive travel to and within Illinois, both domestic and internationally, while enhancing the quality of life for Illinois residents. Promotion/marketing of tourism Beneficiaries: Counties, municipalities, not-for-profit organizations, and Local Promotion Groups Administered by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity via the Illinois GATA Catalog of State Financial Assistance (CSFA 420-25-2097).
Who can apply
Eligible applicants
Details
This grant is for Illinois tourism organizations and marketing partnerships that promote Illinois as a travel destination domestically and internationally. Eligible applicants typically include tourism bureaus, chambers of commerce, destination marketing organizations, and hospitality industry groups operating in Cook County. The program supports promotion and marketing activities that drive travel awareness and visitor spending to Illinois. Grant awards range from $10,000 to $100,000, with cost sharing required from applicants.
How to apply
Application links
Key dates & requirements
Required documents
- DCEO Application Form
- Marketing Plan and Budget
- Cost-Share Documentation
- Organization 501(c)(3) Status (if applicable)
- Board Resolution or Authorization
Program contact
- 👤 Dana Huston
- 📧 Ceo.Tourismgrants@illinois.gov
Funding history
Annual funding for this program — Illinois state appropriations. How funding has trended year over year.
| 2019 | $750,000 | |
| 2020 | $750,000 | |
| 2024 | $1,500,000 | |
| 2026 | $750,000 | |
| 2027 | $750,000 |
FAQ
Who can apply for this grant?
Tourism organizations, destination marketing organizations, and hospitality industry groups in Cook County are typically eligible. Verify organizational status with DCEO before applying.
What does this grant fund?
Marketing and promotional activities that increase awareness of Illinois as a travel destination. This includes digital campaigns, events, partnerships, and branded content.
Is cost sharing required?
Yes. Applicants must contribute matching funds or in-kind resources. Exact percentage should be confirmed with the Illinois Office of Tourism.
What is the application deadline?
The deadline is June 17, 2026. Contact DCEO for current open status and any rolling submission windows.
How much can I request?
Awards range from $10,000 to $100,000. Competitive applications typically demonstrate strong marketing reach and return on investment for tourism.
💡 Tips for applicants
- Focus your application on measurable visitor impact and travel awareness metrics. Show how your marketing reaches both domestic and international audiences.
- Clearly document your cost-share commitment upfront. Use a combination of cash and in-kind contributions (staff time, media value, partnerships).
- Emphasize how your marketing activities benefit Illinois residents by strengthening local economies and tourism infrastructure.
- Partner with complementary organizations in Cook County tourism to expand reach and credibility in your application.
- Request the grant amount carefully—balance ambition with realistic deliverables and budget justification.
⚠️ Common mistakes
Underestimating cost-share burden or offering vague in-kind valuations. Weak marketing plans without specific audience targets or measurable outcomes. Failing to connect local Cook County tourism activities to statewide Illinois destination promotion.
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