Governor Pritzker Announces $2.5 Million in Grant Funding Available for Economic Empowerment Centers Across Illinois

Grant funding will provide support to organizations to create a more inclusive business ecosystem

CHICAGO - Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) today announced $2.5 million in funding is available for the second round of the Economic Empowerment Centers (EEC) Grant Program. Grantees will be selected through a competitive Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) process.

"As Governor, I'm committed to building a thriving business community that values inclusivity and uplifts entrepreneurs from all backgrounds," said Governor JB Pritzker. "The Economic Empowerment Centers Grant Program supports new businesses and job creation in communities across the state. I encourage all eligible agencies and organizations to apply for this innovative funding opportunity."

The EEC Grant Program was developed to help create an inclusive business ecosystem within communities that have historically faced systemic barriers to entry and growth through dynamic partnerships, targeted outreach, and tailored programs and initiatives. DCEO has previously awarded $2.5 million in grant funding to 10 recipients through the EEC Grant Program who have helped launch 100 businesses, created over 160 jobs, and advised over 2,000 entrepreneurs.

"Economic Empowerment Centers provide essential hands-on support and education to assist businesses in our communities," said DCEO Director Kristin Richards. "This continued investment will support our economic ecosystem and help Illinois' businesses be successful."

EECs provide business advice, technical assistance, education, and cohort-based training tailored toward start-ups, existing businesses, and dislocated workers. Services include management analysis and counseling, business planning and financial planning assistance, market analysis, referrals to educational programs, and more.

"With support from the EEC Grant Program, we've deepened our impact by fully activating our comprehensive programming across Chicagoland, ensuring entrepreneurs can access the support they need within their own communities," said Chicago's Sunshine Enterprises' Executive Director B.J. Stewart. "By strengthening referral pathways and partnerships across the state's entrepreneurial ecosystem, we're positioning our participants for more connected, long-term success."

Eligible applicants can apply for EEC grants ranging from $250,000 to $500,000. Applications for the EEC grant program will be accepted on a rolling basis until funds are exhausted. Eligible applicants include career education agencies and non-profit organizations that serve individuals from historically marginalized communities including minorities, women, individuals with a disability, dislocated workers, veterans, and youth entrepreneurs. DCEO will be hosting an Application Workshop and Technical Assistance webinar for EEC grant applicants on May 13, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. Interested applicants can register and find more information on the DCEO website.

"This second round of funding for Economic Empowerment Centers is critical to creating a more equitable economy," said State Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr. (D-Chicago). "Through this program, businesses in communities that have historically faced systemic barriers will have access to resources and training to help them succeed."