Illinois investing $2.3M to encourage state tourism
CHICAGO, Ill. (WTVO) — Illinois will spend $2.3 million to encourage out of state visitors and support the tourism industry, Gov. JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce announced Friday.
The funding will allow eligible entities to apply for the Tourism Attractions Grant Program and the Tourism Private Sector Grant Program, to attract events and festivals and boost tourism across the state.
"Illinois is the best place in the nation to visit and our booming tourism industry proves it," said Pritzker. "With an additional $2.3 million in funding, these grant programs will help develop and enhance attractions, support events and festivals, and bring even more visitors to our great state. This will fuel communities across Illinois – from boosting small businesses to strengthening local economies and supporting our working families. I highly encourage all eligible entities to apply to these competitive grants and display Illinois on an international scale."
Tourism Attractions Grant Program will fund and develop attractions such as museums, recreation areas, amusement parks, and more.
Tourism Private Sector Grant will allow entities to host and develop events and festivals, and is open to non-profits, government entities, for-profit institutions, and local promotional groups.
"The State of Illinois' tourism grant programs continue to open the door to improving and growing tourism throughout the state," said Senator Steven Stadelman (D-Rockford). "I encourage eligible entities to explore the available opportunities and apply for funding to support projects that will help welcome new and returning visitors to Illinois."
