Illinois Economic Empowerment Centers (EEC) Program

The Illinois Economic Empowerment Centers (EEC) Program provides state‑funded grants to eligible career‑education agencies and nonprofit organizations to operate centers that deliver entrepreneurship training, business advisory services, and technical assistance to socially and economically disadvantaged individuals, veterans, women, minorities, youth, and dislocated workers. Grantees receive $250,000‑$500,000 each (up to 10 awards) to cover program‑director salaries, instructor costs, and related service expenses. Recipients must match 100 % of the award (minimum 50 % cash) and adhere to a two‑year performance period (July 1 2026 – June 30 2028) with quarterly reporting, data collection, and mandatory advisory group formation. The grant is reimbursable, requires no indirect costs, and mandates culturally competent, DEIA‑aligned curriculum and ongoing technical support for start‑ups, existing businesses, and dislocated workers. • Eligible applicants: career‑education agencies, local development corporations, chambers of commerce, community‑based outreach nonprofits. • Funding: $2.5 M total; $250‑$500 k per award; 10 awards max. • Matching requirement: 100 % (≥ 50 % cash). • No indirect costs allowed. • Performance period: July 1 2026 – June 30 2028. • Required deliverables: cohort training, business advisory services, advisory council, quarterly performance & financial reports. • Application window: 05/11/2026 – 11/06/2026 (5 PM). • Technical assistance session (optional) on 05/20/2026.