CHAMPAIGN – State Senator Paul Faraci secured $250,000 in grant funding to boost tourism in East Central Illinois.

“Investments in tourism are especially vital for our area, bolstering our local economies with job growth and increased business opportunities,” said Faraci (D-Champaign). “East Central Illinois has so many unique businesses and attractions to offer, and I’m proud to help secure funding to encourage both national and international visitors to not just our communities, but our state as a whole.”

Administered by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, a total of $6.3 million was awarded to 36 grantees through the Route 66 Grant Program, Tourism Attractions Grant Program and Tourism Private Sector Grant Program.

Through the Tourism Attractions Grant Program, Prairie Fruits Farm and Creamery in Champaign received $200,000 to build a new multi-use facility aimed at expanding the farm’s offerings, improving the visitor experience and supporting its mission of educating the public about sustainable farming and local food systems. The facility will house a retail store offering the farm’s artisanal cheese and other local products, as well as ADA-accessible bathrooms and classroom space to host workshops, cheese-making classes and tastings. The addition of these amenities will transform Prairie Fruits Farm into a more versatile and accommodating destination, attracting new and repeat visitors year-round.

The University of Illinois Board of Trustees based in Urbana is set to receive $50,000 through the Tourism Private Sector Grant Program to support the international Sustainability Research and Innovation Congress, an annual convening focused on action-forward, knowledge-based and inclusive approaches to sustainability. For the first time, the Congress – hosted this year by the University of Illinois System – will be held in the U.S. at the Sheraton Grand Chicago Riverwalk. Funding from the program will enhance Illinois’ image as a destination location and improve the Congress’ offerings by supporting costs associated with advertising, marketing, transportation, entertainment and building rentals.

“As Illinois’ world-class tourism industry continues to grow, the State of Illinois maintains its efforts to welcome more visitors to the state through numerous grant funding opportunities,” said DCEO Director Kristin Richards. “Illinois communities will greatly benefit from these investments as millions of visitors spend billions of dollars annually across the state – bolstering local economies and supporting jobs.”

A full list of awardees can be found here.