DCEO Small Business Capital and Infrastructure Grant Program

DCEO Small Business Capital and Infrastructure Grant Program

DCEO Small Business Capital and Infrastructure Grant Program | Applications open through April 7, 2025 for grants $10,000 - $245,000 for eligible project activities. Examples of eligible bondable capital and infrastructure projects:

Planning

  • Architectural/engineering (A/E) design for construction or installation (schematic design to working drawings).
  • Construction management and observation.

 Land and Building Acquisition

  • Costs for acquiring improved or unimproved property, including:
  • Appraisal fees, title opinions, and surveys.
  • Real estate and legal fees, title transfer taxes, and condemnation-related costs.

Buildings, Additions, or Structures

  • New Construction: Build new structures or facilities.
  • Additions: Expand existing facilities to increase capacity or services.
  • Reconstruction and Renovation: Upgrade existing buildings, including:
  • New walls, floors, ceilings, utilities, and finishes.
  • Demolition and installation of furnishings or equipment.
  • Exterior work (e.g., structural repairs, foundations) to extend the facility’s useful life.
  • Roof Work: Removal and replacement of roofing systems to prevent water damage and ice formation.

Site Improvements

  • Demolition or grading for new development.
  • Construction or upgrades of sidewalks, curbs, ramps, and overpasses.
  • Parking lot and road improvements, including resurfacing and extension.
  • Landscaping and exterior lighting if part of a larger project. 

Learn More

Funding

 

Grant awards range from $10,000 - $245,000.


Administrator

Illinois DCEO

Eligible Projects


Small Business Capital and Infrastructure Grant Program will award grants up to $10 million to support small businesses with capital resources that can be used for infrastructure improvements, acquisition of essential equipment, or the purchase of new property.


Building Sector

All

Process

Review and access online application here.

Advantages

Additional Information

Program Objectives: 

  • Business Growth and Expansion: Facilitate the physical expansion or renovation of business facilities to accommodate increased operations, production, or customer demand, including the acquisition of new property to support business growth.
  • Property Acquisition: Support the purchase of real estate to establish or expand business operations, especially in underserved or economically disadvantaged areas. This includes acquiring additional space or locations to meet demand and diversify business activities.
  • Operational Efficiency and Modernization: Improve business productivity through investments in modern equipment, technology upgrades, or enhanced processes. 
  • Energy Efficiency and Sustainability: Encourage sustainable business practices through energyefficient upgrades, environmentally friendly improvements, and waste reduction initiatives.
  • Compliance and Accessibility Improvements: Ensure facilities comply with safety regulations and accessibility standards, promoting safer and more inclusive environments for employees and customers.
  • Workforce Development and Job Creation: Support projects that create or retain jobs, with a focus on hiring and retaining employees in underserved communities. 
  • Long-Term Business Sustainability: Fund projects that contribute to the long-term sustainability of businesses, with performance metrics tracked over 24 months following project completion.