IGI - New Stores in Food Deserts Round 3
The IGI - New Stores in Food Deserts Round 3 grant funds new grocery stores in Illinois food deserts to improve food access and community health, supported by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity.
Funder: Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity
Due Dates: December 9, 2026: Application deadline
Funding Amounts: $500,000–$5,200,000 per award; approx. $20.8M total program funding; 8 anticipated awards
Summary: Supports the establishment of new grocery stores in designated Illinois food deserts to improve food access and strengthen local economies.
Key Information: Pre-qualification is required before application; cost sharing/match required; indirect costs allowed only on operational (not capital) expenses.
Description
This grant program, administered by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), funds the creation of new grocery stores in Illinois communities designated as food deserts. The initiative addresses food insecurity by enabling local governments and small businesses to establish sustainable grocery retail infrastructure in underserved urban and rural areas. The program aims to improve access to fresh, nutritious food and support local economic development.
