The Invest in Cook (IIC) grant program is administered by the Cook County Department of Transportation and Highways (DoTH) to advance transportation improvements within Cook County. Since its inception in 2017, the program has provided funding to local and regional government entities for planning, feasibility studies, engineering, and construction of transportation infrastructure projects. The program aligns with the County’s Long-Range Transportation Plan, "Connecting Cook County," which aims to enhance transit, freight movement, equity in access, maintenance of existing infrastructure, and increased investment in transportation.

The program has an annual funding allocation of $8.5 million and is structured to support projects that enhance transit networks, improve freight transportation, address accessibility inequities, modernize infrastructure, and secure additional transportation investments. Funding can be utilized for various project phases, from initial planning to final construction and implementation. Applicants must demonstrate their projects' viability even if awarded an amount lower than requested due to funding limitations.

Eligible applicants include local governments, regional transportation authorities, transit agencies, public land agencies, and other governmental entities responsible for transportation or recreational trails within Cook County. Private nonprofit and for-profit entities may apply as lead applicants but must partner with a public sponsor. Municipal and township applicants may submit only one project proposal per cycle. The grant does not fund staff salaries, maintenance of diesel-based rolling stock, standalone lighting projects, or electric vehicle infrastructure.

The application window opens on January 15, 2025, and closes at 5:00 PM on March 21, 2025. Applications must be submitted electronically through the Cook County DoTH website. An informational webinar will be hosted on February 5, 2025. The review process occurs from March to June 2025, with final award decisions announced in July 2025. Projects will be evaluated based on completeness, alignment with "Connecting Cook County" priorities, and qualitative and quantitative assessments. These criteria include impact on transit accessibility, economic benefits, facility condition improvements, and overall transportation system equity.

Applicants must submit project descriptions, budgets, schedules, and supporting documents such as cost estimates and maps. Cook County may provide technical assistance for project development and cost estimations, with priority given to disadvantaged communities. The program requires periodic progress updates from awardees to ensure adherence to project timelines and funding requirements. Applicants needing guidance during the application process can contact Laura McFadden at InvestInCook.CC@cookcountyil.gov or call (312) 603-1223.