The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) is offering $5 million in tourism funding through the Route 66 Grant Program ($4 million) and the International Tourism Grant Program ($1 million). These grants aim to boost tourism and cultural preservation across Illinois.

Route 66 Grant Program: Focuses on promoting and preserving the historic Route 66 corridor as it approaches its 100th anniversary in 2026. Grants range from $20,000 to $300,000. Applications are due by September 16, 2024.
International Tourism Grant Program: Aims to increase international visitors to Illinois from key markets, which include Mexico, Canada, German-speaking countries of Germany, Austria and Switzerland, UK, Ireland, France, India, Italy, Australia, and New Zealand. Grants range from $10,000 to $250,000. Applications are due by September 3, 2024.

Eligible applicants include certified local tourism and convention bureaus. Grantees will be selected through a competitive Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) process. For more details and to apply, visit the DCEO website.