INITIATIVES

Programs to Help Your Business Flourish

Made in Illinois Grant Program

Made in Illinois Grant Program

*2025 Application Window Has Closed*

Providing matching funds to help small and mid-sized manufacturers invest in innovation and technological advancements, Made in Illinois is a joint initiative of the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) and IMEC, combining state support with industry expertise. This partnership is dedicated to empowering Illinois manufacturers with the resources and guidance needed to drive growth, innovation, and long-term success—one business at a time.

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Advance McHenry County Manufacturing Grants

*Application Window Has Closed*

In response to the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, IMEC offers fully funded projects to small and mid-sized McHenry County manufacturers. These grants aim to:

    • Rebound and Reinvent: Assist businesses in recovering from the pandemic and adapting to new market conditions.
  • Enhance Global Competitiveness: Implement strategies to improve efficiency and product quality.
  • Build Resilience: Prepare companies to withstand future economic and societal challenges.

The program offers support in areas such as operations improvement, leadership development, business growth, and workforce enhancement.

EXPLORE THE POSSIBILITIES

Cook County Manufacturing Reinvented

*Application Window Has Closed*

After listening to over 1000 Cook County Manufacturers, we have identified their top priorities and developed a grant program tailored for your needs.

Manufacturing Reinvented reimburses manufacturers for the implementation of projects designed to improve productivity, develop future leaders, train your workforce, and grow your business.

Take a look

Kane County Manufacturing Grant Program

*Not currently accepting applications.*

The Kane County Manufacturing Grant Program initiative took a two-pronged approach. One focus on addressing workforce challenges, the other to enhance manufacturing excellence and workforce competitiveness. Learn from experts in lead planning, coaching, project implementation, workshops, events, peer-to-peer best practice sharing and more.

SUCCESS STORIES

See How We’ve Helped Other Manufacturers Succeed

“The process of connecting with IMEC to coordinating with our new client was seamless. Networking opportunities are what drive business growth, and IMEC provides a robust platform for businesses to connect. I enthusiastically recommend the Supply Chain Matchmaking service!”

Lucy Minturn

Founder & CEO - FosterWorks LLC

“IMEC’s knowledgeable and useful assistance was instrumental in Area Diesel Service’s ISO 9001:2015 certification registration.”

Linda Leefers

Quality Systems Manager - Area Diesel Services, Inc.

By understanding where some of the concerns are regarding employee engagement, we can really target how we improve and where we focus. This is extremely helpful. 

Brian Wort

President/Owner - Velocity Metalworks

“Right from the start, I could feel the genuine passion from both organizations to equip my company with all the necessary knowledge and expertise to thrive in the abrasive industry. I had a clear vision for K & K's website and the story I wanted to communicate through it. With the help of IMEC and MFG Empire, my vision was transformed into a wonderful masterpiece that will surely give K & K the much needed updated look."

Joseph Gura

Director of Sales and Operations - K & K Abrasives

“I really cannot say enough about working with IMEC. To have a resource on-call with expertise that relates directly to our business and who is truly invested in our success has been a fantastic thing.”

Nolan Hannan

General Manager - Armoloy of Illinois

“It was a pleasure collaborating with IMEC on our project. The expertise and support from the IMEC team truly accelerated our efforts.”

Diana DeLucio

Marketing Coordinator - Advantage Components Inc.

“I always feel like the IMEC team is in an office right down the hall.  They take the time to learn our company so they can truly provide the best support.  They not only activate immediately when I reach out with a need, they also proactively think of us when new grants and trainings present themselves.  So much of what I have accomplished at Howe is due to the resources and support of IMEC!”

Tammy Phillips

President and CEO – Howe Corporation

“We are very impressed with the results of this project and the positive impact it has had on our company. We are appreciative to IMEC for helping to make this implementation easy so we can continue to focus on manufacturing castings.”

Desiree Einsweiler

President – Lemfco, Inc.