State Senators Doris Turner and Dave Koehler are encouraging local farmers, food processors and agricultural businesses to apply for a new round of funding through the Local Food Infrastructure Grant Program, which will provide $1.8 million to strengthen Illinois’ local food supply chain.
“Everyone needs access to whole, nutritious, locally-sourced foods,” said Turner (D-Springfield), chair of the Senate Agriculture Committee. “By fortifying the food system, we are supporting our local farmers and mitigating food insecurity. This funding will expand access to fresh, local foods, strengthen the local economy, and grow the food supply chain.”
The program, administered by the Illinois Department of Agriculture, supports infrastructure improvements that help local producers process, store, package and distribute Illinois-grown agricultural products. Funding can support projects such as refrigerated vehicles, livestock processing equipment, community kitchens and additional storage capacity.
“A strong local food system depends on having the infrastructure in place to move food from our farms to families’ tables,” said Koehler (D-Peoria). “This investment comes at a crucial time and gives farmers, food processors, and other local businesses the tools they need to grow, strengthen our supply chain, and keep more Illinois-grown food right here in our communities.”
Eligible applicants include Illinois farms, cooperatives, food businesses, food hubs and processing facilities with fewer than 50 employees, as well as nonprofit organizations and local governments.
Interested applicants should pre-register online in advance of the application window, which opens Nov. 2 and closes Jan. 6. More information about eligibility and the application process is available on the Illinois Department of Agriculture’s website.
