Illinois farmers and food businesses looking to expand their operations may soon have an opportunity to secure additional funding.
The Illinois Department of Agriculture is making $1.8 million available through its Local Food Infrastructure Grants program to help improve how locally grown and produced food is stored, processed and distributed.
Funding can be used for equipment and infrastructure improvements, including refrigerated vehicles, food storage facilities, processing equipment and community kitchens.
Grants range from $1,000 to $75,000 for individual projects, while collaborative projects may qualify for up to $250,000.
Applications open November 2, 2026, and close January 6, 2027, at noon. Farmers, food businesses and eligible nonprofit organizations interested in applying should begin the required pre-registration process early, as it can take two to four weeks to complete.
For more information, including application requirements, visit the Illinois Department of Agriculture’s website.
