ILLINOIS — In a major boost to the state’s manufacturing economy, 29 small and mid-sized companies across Illinois have been awarded a total of $1.35 million in capital grants through the 2025 Made in Illinois Grant Program, state officials announced this week.
The program is designed to help smaller manufacturers improve productivity, invest in modern technology, and create jobs — especially in high-growth industries like aerospace, defense, and agriculture.
A Big Opportunity for Local Innovation
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker called the program part of a larger commitment to support local manufacturing and ensure that Illinois remains a national leader in advanced production.
“The Made in Illinois Program helps businesses compete, grow, and bring jobs into our communities,” Pritzker said, highlighting the program’s role in strengthening the state’s manufacturing ecosystem.
Administered by the Illinois Manufacturing Excellence Center (IMEC) and funded by the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), the grant awards offer up to $50,000 in matching funds per company. The selected businesses employ over 1,100 Illinois workers and will now undertake strategic projects representing more than $38 million in total investments statewide.
How the Funds Will Be Used
The funding supports investments in:
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Advanced equipment upgrades
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Digital transformation for production lines
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Supply chain enhancements
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Sustainable practices and efficiency tools
One standout recipient is Aztec Plastic Co., based in Chicago, which will use the funds to upgrade from 3-axis to 5-axis CNC machinery. This leap will help the company increase production, reduce bottlenecks, and strengthen its role in Illinois’ defense and aerospace supply chain.
“This grant gives us the tools to become a more competitive, Illinois-based supplier,” said Andrew Wielgus, COO of Aztec.
Why This Matters for Illinois Entrepreneurs
According to David Boulay, Ph.D., president of IMEC, the program’s goal is to empower small manufacturers to stay competitive in an evolving economic landscape.
“We’re helping these businesses build long-term success, create jobs, and contribute to a resilient statewide economy,” Boulay said.
For young entrepreneurs and next-generation manufacturers, the Made in Illinois program shows how state-level resources can fuel tangible business growth — with real outcomes in production capacity, employment, and regional development.
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More Than Just Funding — A Vision for Growth
This latest round of funding brings the total to $3.08 million awarded to 69 manufacturers since the program’s launch in 2024.
With Illinois ranked as one of the nation’s top states for manufacturing infrastructure, labor, and R&D, initiatives like this are laying the groundwork for a more tech-enabled, globally competitive economy — especially for small and midsize operations.
Interested entrepreneurs can explore the program details and future funding rounds by visiting imec.org/madeinillinois.
Are you a startup founder or small manufacturer in Illinois? Share how you’re innovating or what support would help your business grow — join the discussion now at ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com.
