The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) has announced a grant opportunity for capital improvements under the title "Construction and/or Renovation to Buildings, Additions, or Structures." This program, aligned with the Illinois Build Bond Act (30 ILCS 425), aims to enhance the quality of life for Illinois residents by funding projects for building and property improvements. Total available funding is $750,000, with a single award expected. The grant focuses on bondable expenses such as construction or renovation activities that meet eligibility under state capital expenditure requirements.

Eligible applicants are limited to a specific non-profit organization headquartered at 1116 N Kedzie Avenue, Chicago, that provides domestic violence services, including shelter, counseling, and legal advocacy for survivors and their children. The application must include proof of eligibility. Applicants must pre-qualify via the Grant Accountability and Transparency Act (GATA) Grantee Portal by ensuring compliance with various state and federal requirements, such as holding valid FEIN and UEI numbers, active SAM registration, and good standing with the Illinois Secretary of State.

The application must include several components, including a project narrative detailing the proposed activities, a uniform budget using the DCEO template, conflict of interest and mandatory disclosures, and a W-9 form. Submissions are due by 5:00 PM on January 17, 2025, and must be sent electronically to CEO.OGMgrants@illinois.gov. Incomplete or late applications may be disqualified.

Evaluation criteria include capacity (40 points), economic impact (30 points), need (15 points), and project quality (15 points). Proposals will be scored by an evaluation committee using a merit review process, with opportunities for applicants to appeal based on procedural grounds. Selected grantees will receive a Notice of State Award (NoSA) detailing funding terms and conditions. Indirect costs and general overhead are not allowed, and the program requires compliance with laws such as the Prevailing Wage Act and the Illinois Works Jobs Program Act.

Reporting requirements include periodic performance and financial reports submitted electronically. The DCEO will also conduct monitoring visits and audits to ensure compliance and project progress. Questions regarding the opportunity can be directed to David E. Parr at CEO.OGMgrants@illinois.gov or by phone at 217-685-1197. This is a one-time initiative funded by the Illinois General Assembly for fiscal year 2025.