Description
The Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity (DCEO) is offering the International Tourism Grant Program to certified local tourism and convention bureaus outside Chicago. Grants of $10,000‑$200,000 will fund international marketing activities such as brochures, advertising, website development, trade shows, familiarization tours, translation services, and staff salaries directly tied to attracting foreign visitors. Recipients must match at least 50 % of the award (in cash, not exceeding 25 % in‑kind) and cannot claim indirect costs. Applications are accepted on a rolling first‑come‑first‑serve basis from 09/18/2026 until funds are exhausted or 01/31/2027 5 PM CST. The performance period runs 07/01/2026‑06/30/2027, with quarterly reporting requirements.
• Eligible entities: Certified local tourism/convention bureaus (non‑Chicago) that are non‑profit corporations or government entities.
• Funding: Up to $200,000 per award; total program funding $346,052; 5 awards anticipated.
• Matching requirement: Minimum 50 % cash match; in‑kind ≤ 25 % of match.
• Allowed costs: International marketing materials, travel, trade missions, website work, staff salaries for international activities.
• Disallowed costs: Equipment purchases, general admin salaries, alcohol, indirect costs.
• Application: Uniform grant application, budget, conflict‑of‑interest, mandatory disclosures; submit electronically via Smartsheet link.
• Evaluation: Scored on Need, Capacity, Quality (100‑point scale); minimum 50 points to be considered.