The Illinois Farm Bureau is accepting applications for its Rural Development Grant Program, which is returning for a fourth year. A total of $120,000 in grant funding will be available during the 2026-27 cycle to support projects benefiting farmers, families and rural communities across Illinois.
Last year, the program awarded grants to 30 recipients. Previous grant amounts have ranged from $1,300 to $10,000.
Ryan Tate, associate director of local government for the Illinois Farm Bureau, says the program is designed to help rural communities turn local ideas into projects that strengthen economic opportunities, improve quality of life and address important community needs.
Eligible applicants include county Farm Bureaus, local governments, economic development organizations, nonprofit organizations, community groups and small businesses. Tate says greater consideration will be given to projects that are ready to move forward. Organizations with projects more than a year away from implementation are encouraged to consider applying during a future grant cycle.
COUNTRY Financial is once again contributing $20,000 toward the program’s total funding. Applications must be submitted by December 1st. Those interested in applying are encouraged to contact their local county Farm Bureau office to discuss their proposed project and obtain an application link. Grant applicants are expected to be notified of funding decisions by February 28th.
Additional information, including eligibility requirements and examples of qualifying projects, is available online at bit.ly/IFBrdgrants.