Pritzker Administration Awards $4.85M in Tourism Grants Across Illinois (Chicago, IL) – Gov. J.B. Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) announced more than $4.85 million in tourism grant funding has been awarded to 66 recipients statewide, aiming to build on Illinois’ record-setting tourism growth and attract even more visitors.
The funding is being distributed across three programs: the Tourism Attractions Grant Program ($2 million), the Tourism Marketing Partnership Grant Program ($2.25 million), and the Tourism Private Sector Grant Program ($598,900).
“Our tourism industry supports jobs and local economies, and Illinois is a top destination for visitors across the globe,” Pritzker said. “These investments will allow communities across Illinois to expand their events and festivals, promote one-of-a-kind destinations, and draw visitors from near and far to our great state.”
The Tourism Attractions Grant Program will fund the development and improvement of destinations such as museums, recreation areas and entertainment venues. State officials say the goal is to increase visitation, boost hotel occupancy and generate local tax revenue.
DCEO Director Kristin Richards said continued state investment has helped fuel the industry’s growth.
“Illinois’ tourism industry is booming thanks to the State’s continued investments in promoting our great state and everything we have to offer,” Richards said. “Through DCEO’s tourism grant funding opportunities, visitors from near and far will be drawn to Illinois while our communities benefit from economic development throughout the state.”
The Tourism Marketing Partnership Grant Program provides matching funds to promote attractions, destinations and events, with a focus on increasing overnight stays by both business and leisure travelers.
“Visitors are flocking to Illinois in record numbers to see hidden gems and world-renowned destinations,” said State Sen. Doris Turner, D-Springfield. “Thanks to the State’s tourism grant programs, communities will be able to further promote events, improve attractions, and develop new and enhanced festivals across Illinois.”
Meanwhile, the Tourism Private Sector Grant Program supports new and expanded events and festivals, covering costs such as marketing, transportation, equipment rentals and entertainment.
“Illinois’ tourism grant funding programs are keeping our state on the map as a premier destination,” said House Majority Leader Jay Hoffman, D-Swansea. “The State of Illinois’ investment will boost tourism and have a direct impact on the communities that benefit from a greater number of visitors.”
State officials pointed to strong tourism metrics, including a record $367 million in hotel revenue in fiscal year 2025—a 14% increase over the previous year. In 2024, Illinois welcomed 113 million visitors who spent $48.5 billion, marking increases of 500,000 visitors and $1.3 billion in spending compared to 2023.
Industry leaders also credited the state’s “Middle of Everything” tourism campaign, launched in 2022, with driving growth. According to state data, the campaign has generated 2.4 million additional trips and more than $1 billion in added visitor spending, with a reported return of $75 in visitor spending and $7 in tax revenue for every $1 invested.
“Tourism is a powerful economic driver for communities across Illinois,” said Brittany Henry, chair of the Illinois Destinations Association. “These grant programs provide destinations with the tools they need to enhance experiences, grow visitation, and deliver meaningful economic impact.”
Pritzker Administration Awards $4.85M in Tourism Grants Across Illinois
