Equitable Energy Future Grant Program

The Equitable Energy Future Grant Program is a grant opportunity provided by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity. The program aims to support the development of renewable energy and energy efficiency projects in Illinois, with a focus on historically disadvantaged communities. The grant program will provide funding for pre-development activities such as planning, project development, and community outreach. Eligible applicants include equity eligible contractors, Illinois businesses, and nonprofit or cooperative organizations that meet specific equity building criteria. The program will prioritize projects located within or serving equity investment eligible communities. • The grant program will provide awards ranging from $250,000 to $1,000,000. • The program will support projects that provide benefits to low-income communities, invest in equity investment eligible communities, and support contractors who are participating in or have demonstrated an intent to participate in the Clean Energy Contractor Incubator Program and the Clean Energy Primes Contractor Accelerator Program. • The grant program will also support projects that employ a minimum of 51% of its workforce from graduates or current or former participants of specific workforce programs. • Applicants must demonstrate proof of a historical, current, or future partnership with the community in which the project will be located. • The program will require grantees to submit periodic performance and financial reports, and to participate in technical assistance meetings with their assigned grant managers.