The Illinois Department of Public Health has announced the Health Equity Zones (HEZ) Pilot program to address health disparities through localized, multi-sectoral partnerships and interventions targeting social determinants of health. With $1 million in state funding available, two awards of up to $500,000 each will support organizations in creating health equity zones (HEZs) to implement preventative health measures. The program will run in two phases from January 1, 2025, to June 30, 2025, with an initial planning period followed by implementation and evaluation.

The program encourages local health departments (LHDs) or other eligible organizations, such as nonprofits or academic institutions, to lead HEZ collaboratives. Collaboratives must consist of at least three partner organizations within a defined geographic area with documented health disparities. The lead organization must manage fiscal responsibilities, and at least one LHD must participate as a partner if not leading. Proposed HEZ interventions should align with state health priorities identified in the Illinois State Health Improvement Plan (SHIP) and local assessments (IPLANs), focusing on areas such as chronic disease, maternal and infant health, and social determinants of health.

Eligible organizations must prequalify through the Grant Accountability and Transparency Act (GATA) portal, possess a valid SAM.gov registration, and meet other compliance standards. Applicants are encouraged to allocate $100,000–$150,000 for Phase 1 activities to ensure adequate funding remains for Phase 2. Funding may be used for salaries, travel, supplies, program evaluation, and other related expenses, but promotional items and pre-award costs are prohibited.

Applications must be submitted via the EGrAMS platform by December 3, 2024, at 5:00 PM CST. The application process includes a project narrative, budget, letters of support, and a work plan. The program emphasizes community engagement, equity-centered approaches, and culturally and linguistically appropriate services. Technical assistance is available but not mandatory, with a session scheduled for November 6, 2024.

Evaluation criteria include the scope of work, budget alignment, and adherence to a health equity framework. Priority points are awarded for projects led by smaller-budget LHDs, rural-focused initiatives, or those addressing socially vulnerable populations. Awards will be announced on December 19, 2024, with funding contingent upon meeting Phase 1 milestones. Grantees must submit monthly reports and Phase 1 deliverables before advancing to Phase 2. This initiative aims to empower communities to develop sustainable, place-based interventions that address health inequities comprehensively.