Strategic Economic Development Program
🏛 Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity
✓ Free, no account · Source: Illinois GATA Catalog (CSFA) · Last verified Oct 8, 2026
Can you apply?
This grant is for businesses seeking to locate or expand operations in Illinois. The program supports job creation and economic development across the state. Specific eligibility requirements are detailed in the Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO). Contact the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity for detailed criteria and application guidance.
The grant pool of $5 million supports multiple strategic economic development initiatives. Awards are distributed through competitive selection. No cost-sharing requirement applies to this program.
Check the NOFO carefully for industry restrictions, minimum job creation thresholds, and other specific conditions. Requirements vary by program track within the suite.
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Program description
A suite of strategic programs aimed at attracting and retaining job creators looking to locate or expand their business in Illinois. Attracting and retaining job creators in Illinois Uses and restrictions are outlined in the Notice of Funding Opportunity. Beneficiaries: N/A Administered by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity via the Illinois GATA Catalog of State Financial Assistance (CSFA 420-45-3219).
Who can apply
Eligible applicants
How to apply
Application links
Key dates & requirements
Required documents
- Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO)
- Business plan or project description
- Job creation documentation
- Financial statements or projections
- Supporting documentation as specified in NOFO
Program contact
- 👤 Damilola Oluwemimo
- 📧 damilola.oluwemimo@illinois.gov
Funding history
Annual funding for this program — Illinois state appropriations. How funding has trended year over year.
| 2024 | $80,000,000 | |
| 2025 | $10,000,000 | |
| 2026 | $10,000,000 | |
| 2027 | $66,000,000 |
FAQ
Who is eligible to apply?
Businesses looking to locate or expand in Illinois are eligible. Review the NOFO for specific requirements by program track.
Where must the business be located?
Projects must be in Illinois to receive funding from this state program.
Is cost-sharing required?
No cost-sharing requirement applies to this grant.
What activities are supported?
Business expansion, relocation, and job creation projects are supported. See the NOFO for detailed allowable uses.
How competitive is this program?
The $5 million pool is competitive. Awards depend on job creation projections and economic impact.
💡 Tips for applicants
- Review the NOFO thoroughly before starting your application. Eligibility and scoring criteria are outlined there.
- Document job creation projections clearly with evidence and realistic timelines.
- Emphasize local hiring plans and community benefits beyond job numbers.
- Connect your project to state economic development priorities and industry clusters.
- Submit all supporting documents early to allow time for completeness review.
⚠️ Common mistakes
Underestimating job creation requirements or providing unsupported projections. Failing to demonstrate genuine business need or competitive disadvantage without incentives. Submitting incomplete applications missing required NOFO attachments or financial documentation.
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