Illinois Economic Empowerment Centers (EEC) Program
Illinois Economic Empowerment Centers (EEC) Program supports centers providing underserved entrepreneurs and dislocated workers with training and business assistance to reduce barriers to business entry and growth.
Funder: Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity
Due Dates: November 6, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. (Application deadline) | Rolling review until funds are exhausted
Funding Amounts: $250,000–$500,000 per award; $2.5 million total for up to 10 awards
Summary: Supports Illinois Economic Empowerment Centers providing business training, technical assistance, and resources to underserved entrepreneurs and dislocated workers.
Key Information: A 1:1 match must be committed upfront, with cash equal to at least 50% of the grant amount.
Description
The Illinois Economic Empowerment Centers (EEC) Program is a state-funded program administered by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), through its Office of Economic Equity and Empowerment. Launched in 2024, it supports centers that provide technical assistance, training, and access to resources for start-ups and existing businesses.
The program aims to create an inclusive business ecosystem for communities facing systemic barriers to business entry and growth, including justice-involved individuals. Centers serve socially and economically disadvantaged business owners, very small businesses, entrepreneurs, and dislocated workers. Services include business advice, education and cohort training tailored to participants’ business stages, management analysis and counseling, market analysis, and referrals to financial resources.
