Illinois officials have announced more than $26 million in grant funding aimed at improving access to grocery stores in underserved communities.
The latest round of the Illinois Grocery Initiative includes $20.8 million to establish new grocery stores in designated food deserts, $4.5 million for a new Grocery Rescue Program and $750,000 for energy-efficient equipment upgrades at existing stores.
The Grocery Rescue Program is designed to reopen grocery stores that have closed within the past 12 months. Funding can help new operators purchase property, make repairs and cover first-year operating expenses.
Independent grocers and cooperatives with fewer than 500 employees and no more than four locations may qualify.
Funding for new grocery stores can be used for construction and renovations as well as startup expenses, including wages, utilities and inventory for up to two years. Funding may also support pharmacy services.
Existing grocery stores in food-insecure communities will receive priority for equipment-upgrade grants.
Since the Illinois Grocery Initiative launched in 2024, the state says it has awarded $19 million, including nearly $17 million toward eight new grocery stores and $2 million for equipment improvements at 14 locations.
Interested applicants can register and find more information on the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity website. Interested parties can also reach out to CEO.GrantHelp@illinois.gov for application assistance.