Harper Champions $3.6M Investment in Illinois Farmers and Communities

CHICAGO – State Rep. Sonya Harper (D-Chicago) is celebrating the Illinois Department of Agriculture’s plan to distribute $3.6 million in fiscal year 2026 through the Local Food Infrastructure Grant Program—an initiative she championed with the support of the Illinois Stewardship Alliance and participants in Black Farmers and Growers Lobby Day.

“Food prices are rising across Illinois and investing in local food infrastructure is no longer optional, it’s essential,” Harper said. “We created this program to strengthen our farmers, shorten the supply chain and ensure Illinois families can access affordable, locally grown food. I’ve spent my career fighting to move our state from food deserts and fragile systems toward real, durable solutions, and this investment helps put that vision into action.”

The FY26 state budget issued funds to strengthen local food systems, supporting farms, food businesses, and other organizations in storing, processing, and distributing their products to the community. Grants range from $1,000 to $75,000 for individual projects, and up to $250,000 for collaborative efforts.

Eligible applicants include Illinois farms, cooperatives, food hubs, small businesses, nonprofits, local governments, and licensed (or custom-exempt) processing facilities with fewer than 50 employees—or those planning to be. Funds must be used for activities such as purchasing, leasing, or installing equipment and infrastructure for processing, storing, or distributing value-added foods.

“This is just the first step in building a strong foundation for the next generation of Illinois farmers, families, and communities,” Harper said. “I will continue to do everything I can to support our farmers and producers, ensuring they have the resources needed to bring high-quality, healthy food to every community in this state.”

Application for grant funding will be available February 18, 2026, on the Illinois Department of Agriculture website.