Local companies awarded grants from Made in Illinois Grant Program

Four local businesses were awarded grants from the Made in Illinois program this spring. They include Cardinal Plating Solutions, Moline Welding, Inc., Tri-City Heat Treat and Whitey's Ice Cream. Each of these companies received $47,420, with a total regional investment of $189,680. The companies were among 40 small and mid-sized manufacturers across the state to receive grant money from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) and the Illinois Manufacturing Excellence Center (IMEC). 

Chris Caves, Vice President of Business and Economic Growth at the Chamber, said she was proud to have connected with these regional companies to promote this important funding. "Due to our direct outreach to manufacturers to promote the Made in Illinois Grant, three manufacturers in Rock Island County and one in Mercer County, were awarded these grants." 

The Made in Illinois program provides up to $50,000 in matching grant funding to local Illinois manufacturers to support innovation and strategic advancements in manufacturing. IMEC served as grant administrator for this program.

“Manufacturing is on the rise in Illinois and my administration is providing local manufacturers with the resources they need to compete in the future,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “Thanks to this grant, 40 diverse recipients across the state will receive the capital they need to advance innovation in their field.”

The program originally allocated $1 million in funding and was increased to $1.7 million due to resounding interest in the program from Illinois’ small and mid-sized manufacturers. The Made in Illinois program underscores the State of Illinois’ commitment to strengthening its manufacturing base which is a vital component of the state’s economy. By providing financial support to local manufacturers, the program encourages innovation and advancement within the industry while contributing to job creation and economic prosperity throughout Illinois communities.

“Illinois is a globally recognized manufacturing leader and small and medium-sized manufacturers are a critical part of our state’s manufacturing sector and economy,” said DCEO Director Kristin Richards. “Through the Made in Illinois Program, the State is reinforcing its commitment to providing resources and opportunities to Illinois’ world-class manufacturers while supporting communities across the state.”

“The Made in Illinois Grant Program is just one example of the dedication to supporting Illinois manufacturers in their pursuit of excellence,” said David Boulay, Ph.D., President of IMEC. “By investing in innovation and strategic initiatives, these businesses are empowered to thrive and drive economic growth across the state.”