The Business Attraction Prime Sites Grant, managed by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), supports large-scale capital investment projects that create significant job opportunities in Illinois. The program provides grants ranging from $250,000 to $25 million, funded through state resources. Applicants must commit to substantial job creation and capital investments, with specific criteria tied to various program tiers, such as EDGE, HIB, REV, and MICRO.

Eligibility requires applicants to create a minimum of 40 new jobs and invest $40 million or create 100 jobs with a $20 million investment. Applicants must operate in key industries, including manufacturing, agribusiness, IT, energy, and healthcare. Projects must align with state economic plans and exclude activities such as operational expenses, temporary facilities, or warehouse construction.

Applications must be submitted online by June 30, 2025, with funds distributed in phases: 50% upon approval of initial expenditures and the remainder after all expenditures, including matching funds, are verified. Proposals are scored based on need, capacity, quality, and economic impact. Projects failing to meet job creation or investment commitments may face grant clawbacks.

Applicants must register in the GATA Grantee Portal, ensure compliance with state regulations, and meet matching fund requirements. Reporting and monitoring are mandatory throughout the project’s duration. Interested entities can apply via the designated online portal and contact DCEO for additional guidance.