CHICAGO – Nearly $3 million in new funding is available to help counties, municipalities, non-profit organizations and promotional groups revitalize Illinois’ tourism industry by promoting events, destinations and tourist attractions, thanks to support from State Senator Sara Feigenholtz. 

The Illinois Travel and Tourism Grant Program will match up to $100,000 in project funds to drive tourism activity across the state by investing in marketing and promotional projects, including media production costs, billboards, trade shows, website development and more. 

“Illinois has a great story for visitors from around the country, we need to get out there and tell it,” said Feigenholtz (D-Chicago). “Marketing dollars available through DCEO will help convention and visitors' bureaus and local governments update their pitch and image so that Illinois is next on everyone's travel list.” 

Through the program, the state will match local funds used to promote destinations, attractions and events through marketing and promotional activities outlined in the Notice of Funding Opportunity. The ultimate goal of the program is to support promotional projects that increase visitation and overnight stays, thereby fueling the local economies across the state by generating additional hotel occupancy and travel. 

“World-class travel destinations in the 6th Senate District attract visitors from around the globe,” said Feigenholtz. “When we support local attractions and showcase the incredible events, museums, shows and venues we have, it’s a win for our restaurants, hotels and small businesses too. I encourage all eligible entities to apply for this funding to support your projects as soon as possible.” 

The Illinois Travel and Tourism Grant is available via federal pass-through funds appropriated by the General Assembly for grants associated with federal awards for Travel, Tourism and Outdoor Recreation programs. The total amount of funding expected to be awarded through this opportunity is $2,932,627. Awards will range from $10,000 to $100,000. 

Illinois counties, municipalities, non-profit organizations and local promotional groups can apply by Dec. 12, 2022 for grants of up to $100,000 to be used for promotional funds. For more information and to apply for the grant, visit the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity’s website.