Tourism Attraction Grant Program

The Tourism Attraction Grant Program is administered by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) to support the development and enhancement of tourism attractions that drive economic activity throughout Illinois. The program aligns with the state’s strategic efforts to revitalize the tourism sector by funding capital improvements and other eligible projects that attract visitors from outside a 50-mile radius. Funding is available for municipalities, counties, local promotion groups, not-for-profit organizations, and for-profit businesses, provided applicants meet registration and eligibility requirements under the Grant Accountability and Transparency Act (GATA). Under this opportunity, up to $1.8 million in total funding is available, with individual awards ranging from $15,000 to $200,000. All applicants are required to provide a cost share. For nonprofit entities, local governments, and promotion groups, the match must be at least 50% of total project costs. For-profit businesses must provide a 75% match. Matching contributions may include loans, public program funds, equity, tax revenues, and eligible in-kind contributions (limited to 25% of the match and only for non-profits and local governments). The program does not allow indirect costs, and expenditures such as regular payroll, operational costs, or alcohol purchases are ineligible. Eligible tourism attractions include historical and cultural sites, museums, recreation areas, parks, theme parks, and other visitor-serving facilities that are open to the public at least 100 days annually or, for event-driven attractions, at least 200 hours annually. Funds can be used for capital improvements, equipment purchases, training programs, and interpretive exhibits. Applicants are restricted to submitting one application per cycle, and applications must include a full program form, signed budget, conflict of interest disclosure, and other required documentation. Grant applications will be reviewed using a merit-based scoring system that evaluates need, capacity, and project quality. Criteria include economic impact, visitor engagement, cost justification, and alignment with state tourism goals. Applications must clearly outline performance metrics, including anticipated increases in visitation and tax revenues, and demonstrate a return on investment for the state. Projects must also have a clear marketing plan to attract visitors from beyond the local region. The application window for this round opened on October 3, 2025, and closes at 5:00 PM on November 3, 2025. Applications must be submitted through the online Smartsheet portal. While participation in a technical assistance session is optional, a session will be held virtually on October 9, 2025. Award notifications will follow a post-review grant agreement process. The performance period extends through June 30, 2026, and pre-award costs incurred from July 1, 2025, may be reimbursed. Grantees are subject to quarterly reporting, performance monitoring, and post-award audits. Contact Greg Mihalich at ceo.tourismgrants@illinois.gov for questions or assistance.

Clearly justify ROI and visitor metrics; tie project to regional tourism growth; ensure proper match documentation; only one submission allowed