Description
The Marketing Partnership Program - Cook County is a grant opportunity provided by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity. The program aims to match local funds with state funds to market and promote destinations, tourism attractions, and tourism events throughout Cook County. The goal of the program is to increase overnight stays in paid accommodations. Eligible applicants include municipalities, not-for-profit organizations, and local promotion groups located within Cook County. The program provides matching grants to eligible applicants to assist in promotional activities, such as travel-related promotional materials, media, billboards, web sites, market research, travel/trade shows, and more. The total amount of funding expected to be awarded through this opportunity is $750,000, with awards ranging from $10,000 to $100,000.
• Eligible promotional projects and activities include travel-related promotional materials, media, billboards, web sites, market research, travel/trade shows, and more.
• Ineligible promotional projects and activities include administrative expenses, normal postage, distribution and shipping expenses, association or organizational dues, and more.
• The program requires a cost sharing or matching requirement, where the grantee shall provide matching funds to the total project costs.
• The program does not allow indirect costs.
• The application period is from May 18, 2026, to June 17, 2026, at 5:00 PM.
• Applications will be reviewed on a competitive basis, and grants will be awarded based on the merit review process.