The Illinois Stewardship Alliance Group has announced a new program where millions of state dollars could soon be available for Illinoisans interested in building out the state’s network of local food infrastructure – from animal processing to trucking, and food hubs to community kitchens.
Nearly $2 million in grant funds are available between now and January 31, 2024, for applicants who have an idea to get more homegrown foods to market. The funding approved by the state legislature will be provided through the Illinois Department of Agriculture’s Local Food Infrastructure Grant Program.
Eligible applicants include Illinois farms or cooperatives with fewer than 50 employees, similar-sized processing facilities or food businesses, local governments, health care entities and even correctional facilities. Allowed expenses include transportation vehicles such as refrigerated trucks, milling or pressing equipment, cooler walls and refrigeration units, and much more.
Grants of up to $150,000 per project will be awarded through the Illinois Local Food Infrastructure Grant, with funds to be distributed after projects are considered in March 2024.
For more information and to apply for the grant by January 31, 2024, visit: https://www.illinoislfig.org.