$5M available for tourism grant program

Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) announced $5 million is available in tourism funding through three grant programs: the Route 66 Grant Program ($2 million), the International Tourism Grant Program ($1 million), and the Tourism Marketing Partnership Grant Program ($2 million).

Eligible entities can apply for grants to promote and preserve the historic Route 66 corridor through the Route 66 Grant Program, grants to promote Illinois to international visitors through the International Tourism Grant Program, and grants to develop attractions, destinations, and events through the Tourism Marketing Partnership Grant Program in an effort to boost tourism and welcome more visitors to Illinois. Grantees will be selected through a competitive Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) process.

“As our vibrant tourism industry continues to support job creation and boost local economies, these grants will help communities attract even more visitors from near and far to Illinois,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “Grants are available to develop new attractions and events, bring international visitors to Illinois, and celebrate Route 66’s historic centennial, and I encourage all eligible entities to apply."

“The historic Route 66 corridor connects so many vibrant communities across our state,” said Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton. “Illinois has incredible stories to tell and experiences to share. These tourism grants will help communities strengthen local economies, welcome new visitors, and celebrate the people and places that make Illinois special.”

The State of Illinois continues to prioritize its tourism industry as millions of visitors spend billions of dollars annually across Illinois, boosting economic development and supporting jobs in the industry. Illinois reached its highest-ever hotel revenue figures in FY25 with $367 million – a 14% increase over the previous record set in FY24. Additionally, Illinois welcomed 113 million visitors who spent $48.5 billion in 2024 – representing 500,000 additional travelers spending $1.3 billion more than the previous calendar year.

"The State is making investments to boost tourism all across Illinois," said DCEO Director Kristin Richards. "By building upon success through DCEO's tourism grant programs, this additional funding will support a variety of efforts from promoting the historic Route 66's 100^th anniversary to marketing our state to visitors outside of the country and developing attractions and events throughout the state."