State Rep. Barbara Hernandez Announces Nearly $3 Million in Grants to Promote Tourism

AURORA, Ill. – State Rep. Barbara Hernandez, D-Aurora, recently announces $2.93 million in grants available to non-profits, counties, municipalities, and convention and visitors bureaus to support costs including media productions, billboards, visitor guides, web development and trade show registrations.

“Live shows at the Paramount Theatre, concerts and festivals at RiverEdge Park, and high stakes thrills at the Hollywood Casino, are just a few of the tourism destinations Aurora has to offer,” Hernadnez said. “Growing the reach and appeal of these attractions through new government grants will be a boon to our economy and bolster local businesses still overcoming the challenges of COVID-19 and spikes in inflation.”

Potential applicants include convention and visitor’s bureaus, non-profits, counties and municiapilities. The ultimate goal of the program is to support promotional projects that increase visitation and overnight stays, and so fuel local economies. Total grant money available is $2.93 million with individual grants ranging from $10,000 to $100,000. All applications must be in by Dec. 12, 2022. For more information and to apply visit https://dceo.illinois.gov/aboutdceo/grantopportunities/2973-2388.html.  

“These grants are an opportunity to bring new commerce to Aurora and I encourage everyone who is eliglible to apply,” Hernandez said. “An influx of funding for marketing costs will help attract outside spending to build a stronger future for our economy.”