DCEO has seen a great response to the Research in Illinois to Spur Economic Development (RISE) Initiative, which will allow communities to apply for grants to create or update regional or local economic plans to promote recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. After the grants are awarded and plans are created, DCEO will offer grantees the opportunity to apply for funding for specific projects included in their plans.
This is a fantastic opportunity for local governments and economic development organizations to come together, coordinate ideas, and put pen to paper on projects that will transform communities and regions. For those that are interested, a webinar recording is available here. Please feel free to share our Facebook post here. This application closes on May 9th, so I strongly encourage everyone to talk to your communities about plans to submit an application.
A few more reminders about programs and upcoming webinars:
- The Human Services Capital Investment Grant Program is a collaboration between the DCEO and IDHS. The program’s purpose is to make capital improvement grants to human services providers, throughout the state, which serve low-income and marginalized populations.DCEO is seeking an intermediary to manage the grant, both the funding the capital improvement projects of human service providers and associated administrative costs.Application has been extended to May 16th.
- The Office of Illinois Tourism is proud to launch our $30 million “Middle of Everything”campaign, starring award winning actress Jane Lynch. Not only is Illinois in the middle of the country, we are also the center of culture, food, outdoor adventures, architecture, history and more. Our ads feature a diverse array of attractions across the state, and we would love your help in sharing them. Check out some of our adshere.
- Families that needhelp with utility bills, including natural gas, propane, and electricity should apply for assistance through theHelp Illinois Families program by May 31, 2022. You can learn more at HelpIllinoisFamilies.com or clickinghere.
- The Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program seeks to increase diversity in the building trades by expanding pre-apprenticeship skills training in underserved communities. Those interested in enrolling in training should fill out the interest formhere.
- DCEO’s Office of Minority Economic Empowerment is hosting a Spanish-languageBusiness Webinar Series en Español: Recursos Financieros Para Empresas (RFE). Those interested in learning more about financing for business growth can register for the April 28th webinarhere. It will also be on Facebook Live.
As always, thank you for your partnership in getting this information out to your district.