Illinois Regional Site Readiness Program

The Illinois Regional Site Readiness Program is a state-funded initiative led by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) aimed at enhancing the readiness of industrial and manufacturing sites throughout Illinois. Now in its second year, this grant program was developed to overcome infrastructure-related barriers that prevent sites from becoming competitive in economic development efforts. By building on the foundation laid by previous site development initiatives such as the Megasites Development Program and the Illinois Economic Development Corporation’s Vetted Sites Program, this program seeks to elevate the number and quality of development-ready sites statewide. The primary objective of the program is to support both communities and private landowners in preparing their properties for industrial development. Funding is intended to be used for capital improvements that increase a site's viability, such as infrastructure installation, land acquisition, environmental remediation, and preparation. The program specifically aims to fund projects that can significantly enhance a site’s readiness to support future industrial or manufacturing activity. Eligible uses include construction of utilities, roads, sewer systems, water infrastructure, and rail access, provided these expenditures align with state bondability guidelines. Notably, costs related to buildings or structures are ineligible. The grant is open to a diverse set of applicants including local governments, economic development organizations, nonprofit and for-profit entities, and private landowners. Applicants must either demonstrate site control or present a partnership agreement with the landowner. To qualify, sites must be zoned for industrial or agricultural use and meet minimum acreage requirements—50 acres for greenfield sites or 25 acres for brownfield/infill developments. Sites already supported through past Megasites or Regional Site Readiness programs remain eligible for this round of funding. Matching funds are required and vary by entity type: 20% for local governments and EDOs, 30% for nonprofits, and 50% for for-profits or private landowners. The submission process is conducted online via a Smartsheet form, and applications are accepted on a rolling basis until March 31, 2026, or until funding is exhausted. A technical assistance session is scheduled for November 3, 2025, and while not mandatory, attendance is encouraged. Applicants must submit a comprehensive application package including a uniform grant application, budget, conflict of interest disclosure, and program-specific documents such as site control verification, project narratives, environmental reports, and matching fund documentation. Up to ten awards are expected to be made, with grant amounts ranging between $100,000 and $5,000,000. Applications are competitively evaluated on a 100-point scale based on the project’s need, the applicant’s capacity to deliver, and the overall quality and feasibility of the proposed work. Proposals aligned with local or regional economic plans, located in underserved or energy transition communities, or those advancing geographic diversity will receive priority consideration. Award decisions will be made on a monthly basis, with reviews occurring on the first day of each month. The grant performance period spans two years, beginning as early as January 1, 2026. Grantees will be expected to report regularly on project milestones, leveraged investments, and outcomes. For assistance or further inquiries, applicants are directed to contact Emily Rhodes at [email protected]. A full copy of the opportunity and program guidelines is available through the provided PDF documentation and on the DCEO website. The program reflects Illinois’ broader 2024 Economic Growth Plan, which emphasizes job creation, site development, and statewide economic competitiveness.

Submit early to ensure geographic access to funds; Document clear site control; Ensure alignment with local economic plans.