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Illinois Governor JB Pritzker, alongside the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), has announced a substantial investment to spur business development and community renewal. A generous infusion of $31.5 million in funding is earmarked for the Regional Site Readiness Program, an initiative aimed at preparing underutilized spaces, like dormant factories and contaminated lands, for a future of industrial vitality and growth. "For too long, Illinois communities were left with moribund sites and missed opportunities because state government wasn’t acting as a true partner — that era is over," said Governor Pritzker. The program promises to lay the essential groundwork that will galvanize growth and optimize the state's robust workforce. Prospective applicants, including local governments and private landowners, are being encouraged to stake their claim in this endeavor that could shape a more prosperous Illinois landscape. This new funding is part of a larger $500 million site readiness initiative, an unprecedented investment by the state, aiming to prime a variety of sites for business. Included in this are $200 million allocated for Site Ready Illinois, which encompasses the Regional Site Readiness Program, as well as $300 million directed towards transforming surplus state-owned properties into private development plots through the Surplus to Success program. With a view to competing for large-scale industrial development projects, Illinois is strategically planting the seeds for future growth. "We’re continuing to strategically invest in our people at the local level,” Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton noted, stressing the community and life-transforming implications of these grants. Investments in energy infrastructure and site preparation assistance will be bolstered, directly benefiting municipalities, economic development organizations, and landowners. The program's second phase is focused on addressing financial barriers that often impede the essential steps of due diligence and infrastructure improvement, vital to attracting investment and industrial development. Planning grants can reach up to $150,000, while funding for capital-ready endeavors could see recipients benefitting from up to $5 million in assistance. The announcement highlights that applications will be accepted through March 31, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. or until funds run out, promising a rolling opportunity for interested entities. Additionally, those requiring help with their applications can attend a technical assistance session hosted by DCEO on November 3, where support with GATA pre-qualification will also be available. Senator Doris Turner emphasized the importance of making locations throughout Illinois ready for business in ensuring the state remains competitive in today's economy. And echoed by Abby Powell, Director of Business Development for the Springfield Sangamon Growth Alliance, the anticipation for the results of this program is high, with expectations set on building a foundation for more projects, jobs, and economic expansion across Illinois.
