KANKAKEE – State Senator Patrick Joyce joined the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity in announcing a $16,000 grant to boost local tourism efforts and attract visitors to the area.

“Programs like the Illinois Travel and Tourism grants  will continue to help the 40^th District develop new tourist experiences and enhance existing facilities and activities,” said Joyce (D-Essex). “Tourism sites and attractions have the opportunity to bring economic growth to the area, which is beneficial for all involved.”

Through the Illinois Travel and Tourism Grant Program, a total of $2.9 million is being awarded to 51 grantees to support local tourism promotional efforts. This program provides funding for promotional efforts by local governments, municipalities, non-profits and local promotional groups such as Illinois' Certified Convention and Visitor Bureaus, with the goal of attracting visitors to destinations, attractions, and events throughout Illinois.

The Kankakee County Convention and Visitors Bureau is set to receive a $16,527 grant from the program, which is funded by a federal Economic Development Administration grant.

“This grant will help maximize the distribution of our 2023 Visitor Guide. The design, production and distribution of the guide is imperative to the growth of overnight visitors and, in turn, economic growth in Kankakee County,” said Nicole Gavin, Executive Director of Visit Kankakee. “Our all-inclusive guide spans 22 communities and we diligently work to include all visitor-centric destinations, overnight accommodations, outdoor and indoor activities and experiences, museums, architecture, theatrical and musical performances and events, festivals, restaurants, breweries, wine bars, boutiques, antique shops, and everything in between that makes Kankakee County unique.”

To view a full list of Illinois Travel and Tourism Grant Program recipients, click here.