Route 66 Grant Program

The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity is issuing a Notice of Funding Opportunity to award grants to certified convention and visitors bureaus for the development of tourism, education, preservation, and promotion of the 100th anniversary of Route 66 in 2026. The grant program is made possible by state funds and will provide up to $2,000,000 in funding, with awards ranging from $20,000 to $500,000. The program aims to enhance the Route 66 experience in Illinois and promote future tourism trends, including electrified transportation. • The grant program will support projects that develop new or enhance existing attractions, improve wayfinding, and strengthen future tourism trends. • Eligible applicants include certified convention and visitors bureaus, and the application process will involve a merit-based review of proposals. • The grant program will require grantees to report on the expenditure of funds and the successful performance measure outcomes.