Hoffman Sponsors Legislation Promoting Businesses working with Universities

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Continuing his work to advance higher education and help local businesses, state Rep. Jay Hoffman, D-Swansea, sponsored legislation to help local businesses partner with area colleges and universities to expand research opportunities for key parts of the local economy.   

“This legislation will help create public and private partnerships in a way that benefits both businesses and students now and for the future,” said Hoffman. “This legislation will help expand research opportunities for local businesses to support and engage in research with top Illinois universities.”

The recently passed House Bill 1855 would create Illinois Innovation Voucher Program through the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO). Through the program businesses apply each year for a voucher to offset a portion of the costs from collaborative research with an Illinois college or university. The Hoffman sponsored legislation passed both the Illinois House of Representatives and Senate with strong bipartisan support along with the support of state universities, including Southern Illinois University.

“With the Illinois Innovation Voucher Program, Illinois will be able to expand the research being done at our universities in key areas of our economy such as agribusiness, manufacturing, and healthcare,” said Hoffman. “Through this program, Illinois is investing in both businesses and higher education in our state.”