Illinois Regional Site Readiness Program

Application Period: 10/30/2025 - 04/30/2026 : 5:00 PM

Technical Assistance: Offered : Yes; Mandatory : No; Date : 11/03/2025 : 12:00 PM; Registration link : https://illinois.webex.com/weblink/register/re32576b206d80a156ad156c7e8eb8eca

Apply here: https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/5b978dc28a6c43c48c801afcc387fecd

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Application Documents

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State of Illinois Uniform Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO)
Summary Information
Awarding Agency Name Commerce And Econ Opp
Agency Contact Emily Rhodes (CEO.Sites@Illinois.gov)
Announcement Type Initial
Type of Assistance Instrument Grant
Funding Opportunity Number FY26-1
Funding Opportunity Title Illinois Regional Site Readiness Program
CSFA Number 420-35-3429
CSFA Popular Name Regional Site Readiness
Anticipated Number of Awards 10
Estimated Total Program Funding $60,000,000
Award Range $100000 - $5000000
Source of Funding State
Cost Sharing or Matching Yes
Requirements
Indirect Costs Allowed No
Restrictions on Indirect Costs No
Posted Date 10/30/2025
Application Date Range 10/30/2025 - 04/30/2026 : 5:00 PM
Grant Application Link Please select the entire address below and paste it into the browser...
https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/5b978dc28a6c43c48c801afcc387fe
cd
Technical Assistance Session Offered : Yes
Mandatory : No
Date : 11/03/2025 : 12:00 PM
Registration link :
https://illinois.webex.com/weblink/register/re32576b206d80a156ad156
c7e8eb8eca

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Agency-specific Content for the Notice of Funding Opportunity
Regional Site Readiness Program – Capital Ready
NOFO ID: 3429-3152
For information about grants please visit:
https://dceo.illinois.gov/dceo-grants.html
Updated 3.20.2026: Section B was updated from $30,000,000 in funding to $60,000,000
in funding. Section D and E were updated from January 2026 to April 2026.
A. Program Description
Notice of Funding Opportunity Intent
The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (the “Department” or “DCEO”) is
issuing this Notice of Funding Opportunity (“NOFO”) to support infrastructure and other capital
improvements on sites across the state to advance the readiness of properties with industrial and
manufacturing economic development potential.
Program Description
The Regional Site Readiness Program aims to better prepare sites for industrial and manufacturing
economic development across the state.
Purpose of the Program
• To support communities and landowners in their site readiness capital improvements
• To address financial barriers to construct infrastructure needed to make a site more readily
developable
• To increase the number of sites ready for future industrial site development.
Program History
This is the second Notice of Funding Opportunity for the Regional Site Readiness Program – Capital
Ready. The Regional Site Readiness Program was started in Fiscal Year 2025 to create a more
comprehensive state-wide strategy that builds on prior experience establishing the Megasites
Development Program and complements Illinois Economic Development Corporation’s (Illinois EDC)
existing Vetted Sites Program. Last year’s FY25 Regional Site Readiness Program – Capital Ready
provided funding for infrastructure improvements at 11 sites across the state. Project sites that received
funding under the FY25 Regional Site Readiness Program are eligible sites in for the FY26 Regional Site
Readiness
The FY24 Megasites Development Program was intended to improve Illinois’ competitive edge by
increasing the number of large, attractive site locations for industrial development and address barriers to
preparing sites for competitive site selection opportunities. Project sites that received funding under the
Megasites Development Program or any previous megasites-related NOFOs are eligible sites for the
FY26 Regional Site Readiness funding.
Illinois EDC’s Vetted Sites Program identifies the top sites in Illinois based on a series of characteristics
and provides site and infrastructure data for fast-moving projects. Sites designated as a Vetted Site are
eligible to apply for Regional Site Readiness funding.
Performance Goals and Measures
The intended outcome for this grant is for communities and landowners to have better prepared industrial
sites in their community to attract future investment and job creation in industries aligned with the State’s
Five-Year Economic Growth Plan1.
1 Open for Business: Illinois’ 2024 Economic Growth Plan
https://dceo.illinois.gov/content/dam/soi/en/web/dceo/documents/ilinois-2024-economic-growth-plan.pdf

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Grantees will be required to document and report milestones achieved and the following outcomes of the
grant:
1. Project milestones, including completion
2. Investment leveraged
Other Information
N/A
B. Funding Information
This grant program is utilizing state capital funds consistent with the purpose of this initiative appropriated
by the Illinois General Assembly. Total amount of funding expected to be awarded through this NOFO is
$60,000,000. Awards will range from $100,000 to $5,000,000. The Department expects to make up to
10 awards through this NOFO.
This is a rolling grant opportunity- meaning applicants can submit applications for funding on any date, up
until the date the NOFO closes.
The earliest anticipated start date for awards is January 1, 2026. The period of performance for grants is
expected to be 2 years.
To promote geographic diversity of funds, DCEO aims to limit each Economic Development Region to no
more than two (2) grants from this opportunity. However, where the concentration of program-eligible
participants justifies it, DCEO reserves the right to award grants to more than two projects in a given
Economic Development Region. Please reach out to the site readiness program manager at
CEO.Sites@illinois.gov prior to submitting an application if you have questions.
The Regional Site Readiness Program Capital Ready funds may be used for, but not limited to, the
following activities:
• Land acquisition and related expenses
Appraisal, surveying, real estate, and legal fees
o
Title transfer taxes
o
• Land preparation, if done as part of a larger grant funded, bondable project
Clearing, grading, drainage
o
• Infrastructure expenses
Utility construction
o
Roadway construction
o
Water and sewer construction
o
Rail access
o
• Environmental remediation, if done as part of a larger grant funded, bondable project
Expenditures for these funds are subject to bondability guidelines. See the full list and guidelines for
allowable expenses at
https://dceo.illinois.gov/content/dam/soi/en/web/dceo/aboutdceo/grantopportunities/supportdocs/
bondability-guidelines-rebuild-il.pdf.
Expenditures related to Buildings, Additions, or Structures are not eligible under this Notice of Funding
Opportunity.
Costs associated with the development of a grant proposal are not allowed.
This grant opportunity requires a portion of the total project costs to be funded by the grantee, as
determined by the grantee type (see C.2. Cost Sharing and Matching). These matching funds can come
in the form of local municipal funds, federal funds, or private investment.
Grants will be awarded on a reimbursement basis.
Pre-award and Grant Proposal Development Costs
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All pre-award costs are incurred at the applicant’s own risk and will not be funded if an award is not made.
To be accepted, proof of services must meet the guidelines and requirements outlined within this NOFO,
GATA, and 2 CFR 200 Uniform Administrative Requirements, Costs Principles, and Audit Requirements.
Grants will be awarded on a reimbursement basis. This program requires match from the applicant (see
section C.2 Cost Sharing or Matching). If approved, allowable match costs incurred from October 30,
2025 through the period of performance start date are allowed to be charge to the Grant as pre-award
costs. If approved, allowable grant costs incurred from the date of an approved Notice of State Award
(NOSA)
through the period of performance start date are allowed to be charge to the Grant.
The release of this NOFO does not obligate the Department to make an award.
C. Eligibility Information
An entity must be registered in the Grant Accountability and Transparency Act (GATA) Grantee Portal,
https://grants.illinois.gov/portal/, at the time of grant application. The portal will verify that the entity:
• Has a valid FEIN number (https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-
employed/get-an-employer-identification-number)
• Has a current SAM.gov registration (https://sam.gov). SAM.gov registrations must be marked as
“public” to allow the GATA Grantee Portal to expedite the review of the federal information;
• Has a valid UEI number (https://sam.gov)
• Is not on the Federal Excluded Parties List (verified at https://sam.gov)
• Is in Good Standing with the Illinois Secretary of State, as applicable
(https://www.ilsos.gov/departments/business_services/corp.html)
• Is not on the Illinois Stop Payment list (verified once entity is registered in GATA Grantee Portal);
and
• Is not on the Department of Healthcare and Family Services Provider Sanctions list
(https://www.illinois.gov/hfs/oig/Pages/SanctionsList.aspx)
Entities on the Illinois Stop Payment List and/or the Federal Excluded Parties List at time of application
submission will not be considered for an award.
An automated email notification to the entity alerts them of “qualified” status or informs how to remediate
a negative verification (e.g., not in good standing with the Secretary of State). A federal Debarred and
Suspended status cannot be remediated.
At this time, federal memo M-21-20 allows entities to apply for grant awards without a valid UEI number.
The UEI number must be obtained prior to grant execution. The State of Illinois has adopted this
guidance for the issuance of state awards also.
Pursuant to the policy of the Illinois Office of the Comptroller, to receive grant funds from the State of
Illinois, a grantee must be considered a regarded entity by the IRS for federal income tax purposes.
Disregarded entities will not be eligible to receive grant funds.
1. Eligible Applicants include:
• Local governments
• Economic development organizations (see definition in Section H. Other Information)
• Nonprofit organizations
• For-profit organizations
• Private landowner
Eligible applicants must propose projects on eligible sites, which include:
If applicant currently has site control (see definition of “site control” in Section H. Other
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Information):
• Applicant must show clear land title, rights-of way, and easements; and
• Site should be zoned for industrial or agricultural use or be able to show that the site is
in the process of being rezoned for industrial use at application submission; and
• Site must not be currently occupied by an active business; and
• Minimum acreage required is based on the environmental and surrounding development
status of the site (see definition in Section H. Other Information):
For greenfield sites: Infrastructure improvement must make at least one 50-acre
o
site more readily developable; and
For brownfield site or infill development: Infrastructure improvement must make
o
at least one 25-acre site more readily developable
• Applicant must provide a written statement indicating they intend to lease or sell the
property for future industrial development.
If applicant does not own the site at time of application:
• The applicant must submit a partnership agreement with a private landowner or for-profit
company that does own the land. The documented agreement must be submitted at the
time of application and must include language demonstrating the following conditions:
The applicant has the authority to conduct project activities on the site; and
o
The landowner statement of intent to lease or sell the property for future
o
industrial development at the conclusion of the project; and
The site is not currently occupied by an active business
o
• If acquisition activities are being proposed, the site being acquired must be at least 50
contiguous, developable acres OR acquisition must create at least 50-acre contiguous
site. No funds will be disbursed until proof of site control is submitted; and
• Minimum acreage required is based on the environmental and surrounding development
status of the site (see definition in Section H. Other Information):
For greenfield sites: Infrastructure improvement must make at least one 50-acre
o
site more readily developable; and
For brownfield site or infill development: Infrastructure improvement must make
o
at least one 25-acre site more readily developable
• Site should be zoned for industrial or agricultural use or be able to show that the site is in
the process of being rezoned for industrial use at application submission
If the applicant does not have site control at time of application and plans to acquire the site or
secure options on the site as part of this grant, no grant agreement will be finalized and no grant
funds will be dispersed until proof of site control is submitted to DCEO. If rezoning is taking
place, no grant agreement will be finalized and no grant funds will be dispersed until proof of
confirmed industrial zoning is submitted to DCEO. Grantees take on all costs at their own risk
and will not be reimbursed for any funds expended until site control or rezoning documentation is
provided. Both greenfield and brownfield locations appropriate for industrial use are eligible.
For this round of Regional Site Readiness Program, project sites that received funding under the
Megasites Development Program, Round 1 of the Regional Site Readiness Program, or any
previous megasites or site readiness-related NOFOs are eligible sites for Regional Site
Readiness funding.
Sites designated as a Vetted Site are eligible to apply for Regional Site Readiness funding.
Applicants and project sites that do not meet these criteria are ineligible for this funding
opportunity.
The Department complies with all applicable provisions of state and federal laws and regulations
pertaining to nondiscrimination, sexual harassment and equal employment opportunity including,
but not limited to: The Illinois Human Rights Act (775 ILCS 5/1-101 et seq.), The Public Works
Employment Discrimination Act (775 ILCS 10/1 et seq.), The United States Civil Rights Act of
1964 (as amended) (42 USC 2000a-and 2000H-6), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973
(29 USC 794), The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (42 USC 12101 et seq.), and The Age
Discrimination Act (42 USC 6101 et seq.).
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2. Cost Sharing or Matching.
This grant opportunity requires a portion of the total project costs to be funded by the grantee,
as determined by the grantee type (see table below). These matching funds can come in the form
of local municipal funds, federal funds, or private investment.
Applicants are required to submit letters or other documentation to verify that funds are available
and committed to the project to meet cost-sharing requirements.
Entity Type % of Cost Share Required
Local government and Economic Development Organization 20%
(EDO)
Non-EDO nonprofit organization 30%
For-profit organization and private landowner 50%
The percentage of cost share required is based on the TOTAL PROJECT COST. For example,
for a project with a total project cost of $3,750,000:
If a local government or EDO is submitting an application, they are required to provided 20% of
the total project cost:
Grant request: $3,000,000 (80%)
Local match required: $750,000 (20%)
Total project cost: $3,750,000 (100%)
If a non-EDO nonprofit is submitting an application, they are required to provided 30% of the total
project cost:
Grant request: $2,625,000 (70%)
Local match required: $1,125,000 (30%)
Total project cost: $3,750,000 (100%)
If a for-profit or private landowner is submitting an application, they are required to provided 50%
of the total project cost:
Grant request: $1,875,000 (50%)
Local match required: $1,875,000 (50%)
Total project cost: $3,750,000 (100%)
3. Indirect Cost Rate.
This grant opportunity is limited to capital improvement expenses. The grant will not compensate
for indirect costs, overhead or administrative expenses associated with the execution of the
program.
4. Freedom of Information Act/Confidential Information.
Applications and accompanying materials are subject to disclosure in response to requests
received under provisions of the Freedom of Information Act (5 ILCS 140/1 et seq.). Information
that could be proprietary, privileged, or confidential commercial or financial information should be
clearly identified as such in the application materials. The Department will maintain the
confidentiality of that information only to the extent permitted by law.
5. Other, if applicable.
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Applicants may submit multiple applications to this
opportunity.
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D. Application and Submission Information
1. Address to Request Application Package.
Grant application forms are available at the web link provided in the “Grant Application Link” field
of this announcement or by contacting the Program Manager:
Emily Rhodes
Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity
1011 S. 2nd Street
Springfield, IL 62704
Email: CEO.Sites@illinois.gov
2. Content and Form of Application Submission.
To ensure geographic diversity of funds, DCEO aims to limit each Economic Development
Region2 to two (2) grants from this opportunity. When 2 grants have been awarded in a region,
DCEO will prioritize other regions for funding. Please reach out to the site readiness program
manager at CEO.Sites@illinois.gov prior to submitting an application if you have questions
regarding the number of awards in your region. Where the concentration of program-eligible
participants justifies it, DCEO reserves the right to award grants to more than two projects in a
given Economic Development Region.
A standard application package must be submitted and reviewed by the Department. Each
package should contain the following items:
Uniform Grant Application in fillable PDF format.
☐
 Signature page must be signed by the authorized signatory before submission
Can be printed, signed, and scanned
o
Can be signed digitally
o
Uniform Budget utilizing the template provided by DCEO for this project.
☐
 The entire Excel document with all the tabs included, even if the tabs are not
relevant to the grant opportunity, must be submitted.
 Do not send a restricted version of the Uniform Budget.
 Certification page must be signed by the authorized signatory before submission
Can be printed, signed, and scanned
o
Can be signed digitally
o
Conflict of Interest Disclosure.
☐
 Conflict of Interest Disclosure must be signed by the authorized signatory before
submission
Can be printed, signed, and scanned
o
Can be signed digitally
o
Mandatory Disclosure.
☐
 Mandatory Disclosure must be signed by the authorized signatory before
submission
Can be printed, signed, and scanned
o
Can be signed digitally
o
This Notice of Funding Opportunity also requires the submission of the following other
programmatic specific items:
Program Application
☐
• Project overview
2 DCEO Economic Development Regions: https://dceo.illinois.gov/smallbizassistance/regionspecificassistance.html
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Project name
o
Project summary – list the capital activities that are being proposed as part
o
of this project
Project location – provide information on the site’s development potential
o
and the ideal target industry for the site in the context of your region’s
economic development strengths including transportation network, existing
and growing industries, and regional workforce
Project impact – describe how the infrastructure and capital improvements
o
will better prepare the site to sell or lease for future industrial development
Statement of intent – provide a statement of intent that the owner of the site
o
will sell or lease the land for industrial or manufacturing purposes as the
conclusion of the project
Site characteristics, including
o
 Site owner
 Street address
 Developable acreage
 Property Index Number (PIN)
 Current land use
 Status of buildings on site
 Miles to nearest highway or interstate
 Miles to nearest airport
 Rail-service/rail spur
 Utilities
• Electric infrastructure serving the site and available capacity
• Natural gas infrastructure serving the site and available
capacity
• Water infrastructure serving the site and available capacity
• Wastewater infrastructure serving the site and available
capacity
Additional location factors – indicate if your project is:
o
 Identified in a local or regional plan, and include link to the plan
 Identified in a regional site prioritization plan, and include link to the
plan
 Located in an energy transition community (see definition in Section
H.Other Information)
 Located in a DCEO designated Underserved Area (see definition in
Section H. Other Information)
• Project information
Budget narrative with associated work plan – describe how the budget will
o
be used to achieve the infrastructure and capital improvement activities
proposed in the project summary
Project timeline and associated milestones – provide project timeline in
o
months
Project team – describe the key staff’s relevant experience and their ability
o
to manage comparable grants
Project partners – list project partners from outside your organization and
o
their role in the project
Existing Due Diligence Documentation – list any due diligence or studies
o
that have already been completed on the site (see definition in Section H.
Other Information)
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Site visit documentation – list any site visits that companies have made to
o
your site, including name of company or project name and date of visit. List
“Visit has taken place – NDA” if confidentiality is an issue.
Project Readiness Documentation. Attach the following documents and provide a
☐
narrative explanation:
• Site control documentation (see definition of “site control” in Section H. Other
Information)
• Zoning map – include zoning map with site clearly marked; if rezoning is taking
place, provide evidence that the process for rezoning has started and provide a
timeline for final rezoning approval
• If applicable, proof of brownfield or infill development status – for brownfield
status, include Phase I environmental assessment, if available, and provide
known historical uses of the property; for infill development status, include a map
showing directly adjacent development (see definition of “brownfield” and “infill
development” in Section H. Other Information)
• Environmental permits, available environmental reports or maps – describe
information on any known environmental factors impacting the site including
Phase I environmental assessment showing brownfield status; nonattainment
status; presence of wetlands; location of floodplain; levee status and attach any
available environmental materials
• Project design or construction documents, including map of the project site
• Map showing existing roadways on site, utility infrastructure, access to
transportation network, or water infrastructure, if feasible
• Contracts or bids for project site improvements
• Matching funds documentation – document must describe the source of the
local matching funds and confirm that they are available and committed to the
project
• Minority inclusion outreach plan with Business Enterprise Program (BEP)
goals
• Letter(s) of support from local municipality and community stakeholders
Please note there is a maximum upload of 10 documents in the web form that you submit the
application, so combining files may be necessary.
3. Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and System for Award Management (SAM)
Each applicant (unless the applicant is an individual or Federal or State awarding agency that is
exempt from those requirements under 2 CFR 25.110(b) or (c), or has an exception approved by
the Federal or State awarding agency under 2 CFR 25.110(d)) is required to:
(i) Be registered in SAM. To establish a SAM registration, go to www.SAM.gov and/or utilize this
instructional link: How to Register in SAM from the www.grants.illinois.gov Resource Links
tab. SAM.gov registrations must be “public.”
(ii) Provide a valid UEI number in the GATA Grantee Portal registration.
(iii) Continue to maintain an active SAM registration with current information at all times during
which it has an active Federal, Federal pass-through or State award or an application or plan
under consideration by a Federal or State awarding agency. The State awarding agency may
not make a Federal pass-through or State award to an applicant until the applicant has
complied with all applicable UEI and SAM requirements and, if an applicant has not fully
complied with the requirements by the time the State awarding agency is ready to make a
Federal pass-through or State award, the State awarding agency may determine that the
applicant is not qualified to receive a Federal pass-through or State award and use that
determination as a basis for making a Federal pass-through or State award to another
applicant.
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4. Submission Dates and Times.
This is a rolling opportunity that will end once all funding is exhausted or April 30, 2026,
whichever occurs first.
Application materials must be submitted to the Department via electronic form at
https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/5b978dc28a6c43c48c801afcc387fecd.
The Department is under no obligation to review applications that do not comply with the above
requirements. Failure to meet the application deadline may result in the Department returning
application without review or may preclude the Department from making the award.
5. Intergovernmental Review, if applicable.
N/A
6. Funding Restrictions.
This opportunity does allow reimbursement of pre-award costs. Other restrictions can be found in
Sections A., B., and C.
7. Other Submission Requirements.
Documents stored in Google Docs or other cloud-based servers are not allowed.
The applicant can receive a copy of their submitted application by checking the “Send me a copy
of my responses” box at the bottom of the application submission form.
Applicants may confirm receipt of the application and documents by contacting the program
contact listed in this NOFO.
E. Application Review Information.
1. Criteria.
Grant proposals will be reviewed on a competitive basis. Each proposal will be scored on a 100-
point scale. The Department shall consider the following criteria when evaluating the application
submittal: Need, Capacity, and Quality.
Need- Identification of stakeholders, facts, and evidence that demonstrate the proposal
supports the grant program purpose
Applicant demonstrates that the project will better prepare the site for future 10
industrial development
Project site is identified in a regional site prioritization plan or site has significant 8
due diligence completed (see definition of “due diligence” in Section H. Other
Information)
Project is identified in and aligned with goals of a local or regional plan 7
Project is located in an energy transition community (see definition in Section H. 5
Other Information)
Project is located in a DCEO designated Underserved Area (see definition in 5
Section H. Other Information)
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Capacity- The ability of the applicant to execute the project according to requirements
of the grant program
Team’s experience – key staff demonstrates ability to manage comparable 8
grants
Budget and workplan – budget and workplan align, are detailed, and are 7
consistent with NOFO eligible activities
Match – matching fund sources and availability are documented 5
Timeline – project timeline is clear and reasonable 5
Quality- The totality of features and characteristics of the project that indicate its ability
to satisfy the requirements of the grant program
Location factors: Demonstration of location’s economic development potential 12
based on access to transportation network; regional workforce; target industries
align with 5-year Economic Plan; project site advances geographic diversity of
program
Project feasibility: Project is feasible based on engineering and design 10
documents provided and environmental due diligence completed; due diligence
is completed, and environmental factors do not raise significant concern for
future development
Project site is in Illinois EDC’s Vetted Sites program or provides documentation 8
of site visit from an economic development prospect
Project site has previously received investment from the Megasites Grant 7
Program or FY25 Regional Site Readiness Program
Project partners and their roles are listed; letters of support are attached 3
*For-profit and private landowner applicants: at least one letter of support must
come from a local municipality confirming the project aligns with the
community’s economic development goals to receive full points in this category.
2. Review and Selection Process.
Applications will be graded using the Merit Review Process and scored on the criteria specified in
Section E.1. The Department will designate an Evaluation Committee to grade each application
received for this funding opportunity. The final score of each Committee member will be
calculated and an average of all scores will be the final applicant score. Grants will be awarded
on a rolling basis, with the Evaluation Committee scheduled to meet on the first day of each
month to review applications that came in the month prior (For example, on December 1, the
Evaluation Committee will begin reviewing all applications received in November). All applicants
with a merit review score that exceeds 75 will receive a recommendation for an award. After
recommendations have been made, grants will be awarded in order from highest score to lowest
score until funding is exhausted.
All applications will be sorted by their Economic Development Region. To promote geographic
diversity of funds, DCEO aims to limit each Economic Development Region to no more than two
(2) grants from this opportunity. However, where the concentration of program-eligible
participants justifies it, DCEO reserves the right to award grants to more than two projects in a
given Economic Development Region. Please reach out to the site readiness program manager
at CEO.Sites@illinois.gov prior to submitting an application if you have questions.
By the end of April 2026, if all funds have not been made for award recommendation, DCEO may
recommend additional applicants with a merit review score that exceeds 60 for award. These
additional awards may be selected based on merit review score, as well as geographic dispersion
of awardees or location in an underserved or energy community.
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The Merit Based Review process is subject to appeal per
https://dceo.illinois.gov/aboutdceo/grantopportunities/meritappreview.html. However,
competitive grant appeals are limited to the evaluation process. Evaluation scores may not be
protested. Only the evaluation process is subject to appeal. The appeal must be submitted
through the merit review appeal request form
(https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/6444bed39ef140c589f002f53b9bc092) within 14 calendar
days after the date that the grant award notice has been published.
3. Anticipated Announcement and State Award Dates, if applicable.
After the application period is closed, the Department will conduct a merit based review of eligible
applications. Successful applicants will receive a Notice of State Award (NOSA) to initiate the
grant agreement phase. During this phase, you will be contacted by a grant manager to develop a
grant agreement, which can be a months long process depending on complexity, cooperation,
and conformity with all applicable federal and state laws.
The Department reserves the right to issue a reduced award, or not to issue any award.
F. Award Administration Information
1. State Award Notices.
The Notice of State Award (NOSA) will specify the funding terms and specific conditions resulting
from the pre-award risk assessments and the merit based review process. The NOSA must be
accepted in the GATA Portal by an authorized representative of the grantee organization. The
NOSA is not an authorization to begin performance or incur costs.
2. Administrative and National Policy Requirements.
Subrecipients and Subcontractors: Agreement(s) and budget(s) with subrecipients and
subcontractors must be pre-approved by and on file with DCEO. Agreements can be submitted
to DCEO when available. Subcontractors and subrecipients are subject to all applicable
provisions of the Agreement(s) executed between DCEO and the grantee. The successful
applicant shall retain sole responsibility for the performance of its subrecipient(s) and/or
subcontractor(s).
Grant Uniform Requirements: The Grant Accountability and Transparency Act (30 ILCS 708/1
et seq.) (and its related administrative rules, 44 Ill. Admin. Code Part 7000), was enacted to
increase the accountability and transparency in the use of grant funds from whatever source and
to reduce administrative burdens on both State agencies and grantees by adopting federal
guidance and regulations applicable to those grant funds; specifically, the Uniform Administrative
Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (2 CFR 200).
Procurement: Grantees will be required to adhere to methods of procurement per the
Procurement Standards (2 CFR 200.317 – 2 CFR 200.327).
Business Enterprise Program: For grant awards of $250,000 or more, grantees will be
required to comply with the Business Enterprise Program for Minorities, Females, and Persons
with Disabilities Act (30 ILCS 575/0.01 et seq.), which establishes a goal for contracting with
businesses that have been certified as owned and controlled by persons who are minority, female
or who have disabilities. The Department will work with the grantees to ensure compliance prior
to the establishment of the grant agreement as well as through the life of the grant.
Environmental Review Requirements: Capital grants will be reviewed to determine
environmental review requirements. Based on the scope of the project, the grantees may be
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required to complete additional environmental approvals before a grant agreement can be
initiated.
Illinois Works Jobs Program Act (30 ILCS 559/20-1 et seq.): For grants with an estimated total
project cost of $500,000 or more, the grantee will be required to comply with the Illinois Works
Apprenticeship Initiative (30 ILCS 559/20-20 to 20-25) and all applicable administrative rules. The
“estimated total project cost” is a good faith approximation of the costs of an entire project being
paid for in whole or in part by appropriated capital funds to construct a public work. The goal of
the Illinois Apprenticeship Initiative is that apprentices will perform either 10% of the total labor
hours actually worked in each prevailing wage classification or 10% of the estimated labor hours
in each prevailing wage classification, whichever is less. Grantees will be permitted to seek from
the Department a waiver or reduction of this goal in certain circumstances pursuant to 30 ILCS
559/20-20(b). The grantee must ensure compliance for the life of the entire project, including
during the term of the grant and after the term ends, if applicable, and will be required to report on
and certify its compliance.
Prevailing Wage Act (820 ILCS 130/0.01 et seq.): Applicants that are awarded grants shall
comply with all requirements of the Prevailing Wage Act, including but not limited to, inserting into
all contracts for construction a stipulation to the effect that not less than the prevailing rate of
wages as applicable to the project shall be paid to all laborers, workers, and mechanics
performing work under the award and requiring all bonds of contractors to include a provision as
will guarantee the faithful performance of such prevailing wage clause as provided by
contract. Grantees will be required to report on Prevailing Wage Act compliance on a monthly
basis.
Employment of Illinois Workers on Public Works Act (30 ILCS 570/0.01 et seq.): All grantees
will be required to comply with the Employment of Illinois Workers on Public Works Act (30 ILCS
570/0.01 et seq.) (the “Act”), which provides that whenever there is a period of excessive
unemployment in Illinois (as defined by the Act), if the Grantee is using Grant Funds for (1)
constructing or building any public works, or (2) performing the clean-up and on-site disposal of
hazardous waste for the State of Illinois or any political subdivision of the State, then the Grantee
shall employ at least 90% Illinois laborers on such project. Illinois laborers refers to any person
who has resided in Illinois for at least 30 days and intends to become or remain an Illinois
resident. Grantees may receive an exception from this requirement by submitting a request and
supporting documents certifying that Illinois laborers are either not available, or are incapable of
performing the particular type of work involved. The certification must: (a) be submitted to the
grant manager within the first quarter of the Award Term; (b) provide sufficient support that
demonstrates the exception is met; (c) be signed by an authorized signatory of the Grantee; and
(d) be approved by DCEO in consultation with the Illinois Department of Labor. In addition, every
contractor on a public works project or improvement or hazardous waste clean-up and on-site
disposal project in this State may place on such work no more than 3 (or 6 in the case of a
hazardous waste clean-up and on-site disposal project) of the contractor’s regularly employed
non-resident executive and technical experts.
3. Reporting.
Periodic Performance Report (PPR) and Periodic Financial Report (PFR)
Grantees funded through this NOFO are required to submit in the format required by the Grantor,
at least on a quarterly basis, the PPR and PFR electronically to their assigned grant manager.
The first of such reports shall cover the first three months after the award begins. Pursuant to 2
CFR 200.328, Periodic Financial Reports shall be submitted no later than 30 calendar days
following the period covered by the report. Pursuant to 2 CFR 200.329, Periodic Performance
Reports shall be submitted no later than 30 calendar days following the period covered by the
report. Any additional reporting requirements will be disclosed in the NOSA. Grantees are
required within 45 calendar days following the end of the period of performance to submit a final
closeout report in the format required by the Grantor (See 2 CFR 200.344).
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Monitoring
Grantees funded through this NOFO are subject to fiscal and programmatic monitoring visits by
the Department in accordance with 2 CFR 200.337. They must have an open-door policy
allowing periodic visits by Department monitors to evaluate the progress of the project and
provide documentation upon request of the monitor. Program staff will also maintain contact with
participants and monitor progress and performance of the contracts. The Department may modify
grants based on performance.
Audit
Grantees shall be subject to Illinois’ statewide Audit Report Review requirements. Terms of the
Single Audit Act Amendments of 1996 (31 USC 7501-7507), Subpart F of 2 CFR Part 200, and
the audit rules set forth under the Grant Accountability and Transparency Act Admin Rules shall
apply (See 44 IL Admin Code 7000.90).
G. State Awarding Agency Contact(s)
Grant Help Desk
Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity
Email: CEO.GrantHelp@illinois.gov
H. Other Information, if applicable
Economic Development Organization is defined as an organization whose primary purpose is to
support the economic development of a community or region. To demonstrate this eligibility status, DCEO
will review the applicant’s articles of incorporations, charter, resolutions, bylaws, and/or other documents
that may be relevant to establish the primary purpose of the organization.
Site Control is demonstrated by submitting documentation that proves the applicant either 1) owns the
site (land title, rights-of-way, permanent easement), 2) has an agreement to acquire the site, 3) has the
site under option for a minimum of three years, or 4) has documentation from landowner demonstrating
the applicant’s authority to make site improvements. DCEO will review all site control documentation to
establish sufficient site control for the purposes of this program.
Brownfield is defined by the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency as abandoned or under-
utilized industrial and commercial properties with actual or perceived contamination and an active
potential for redevelopment. Infill development encourages the development of underused or vacant
land in existing urban areas to increase density and place new development near existing resources and
infrastructure.
Greenfield is defined by the construction of infrastructure on a site that has not been previously
developed or polluted.
Due diligence is defined as any study, analysis, survey, or report completed with information on the site
to assess a site to determine the feasibility of future development and the limitations and opportunities of
a particular site. This includes, but is not limited to the following activities: Site concept plans; Engineering
studies – including design and pricing of Utility infrastructure, Water infrastructure, Transportation
infrastructure; Environmental studies - including Phase I Environmental Site Assessment, Phase II
Environmental Site Assessment, Wetland delineation, Archeological surveys, Historical properties
studies/surveys, Floodplain, soils, threatened and endangered species analysis, Topographic survey,
Preliminary geotechnical study; Permitting.
Underserved Area is defined as a census tract which meets one of the following four tests: 1) Poverty
rate of at least 20%; or 35% or more of the families with children in the area are living below 130% of the
poverty line, according to the latest American Community Survey; or At least 20% of the households in
the area receive assistance under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP); or Average
unemployment rate that is more than 120% of the national unemployment average, for a period of at least
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two (2) consecutive calendar years preceding the date of the application. A map of Illinois Underserved
Areas can be found here: https://dceo.illinois.gov/expandrelocate/incentives/underservedareas.html
Energy Transition Community is defined as a host city or county of a plant/mine that has closed or
significantly reduced operations in the past 6-years or has announced a closure or significant reduction in
the next 6 years.
Name of Plant/Mine Host City or County
Red Hawk Mine Jackson County
Coffeen Power Plant Montgomery County
Duck Creek Power Plant Fulton County
Havana Power Plant Mason County
Hennepin Power Plant Hennepin
Blackhawk Mine Randolph County
Cottage Grove Mine Saline County
Mine Wildcat Hills U/G Mine Saline County
Shay #1 Mine Macoupin County
Eagle River #1 Mine Saline County
E.D. Edwards Power Plant Peoria County
Joppa Steam Plant Massac County
Waukegan Power Plant Waukegan
Will County Power Plant Romeoville
Midwest Electric Power Inc Massac County
Joliet Generating Power Plant Will County
SIPC – Lake of Egypt Williamson County
Viper Mine Logan County
City Water, Light & Power Springfield
Baldwin Generating Center Randolph County
Kincaid Generation Christian County
Newton Power Plant Jasper County
Powerton Station Tazewell County
Sunrise Coal Lawrence County
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