PEORIA – State Senator Dave Koehler announced $100 million in grants available to public school districts and non-profit operators of early childhood centers, and urges local qualifying organizations to apply.

“We can set kids on the right path by investing in our early education programs,” said Koehler (D-Peoria). “Those first few years can be incredibly impactful, and we want to make sure we’re giving kids every possible opportunity to succeed.”

The funding comes through the Capital Development Board, in consultation with the Illinois State Board of Education, and grants will be released in two rounds. The first round of $60 million will be awarded in fall of 2022 and the remaining $40 million will be awarded at a later date.

In order to be eligible to receive a grant, recipients are required to match between 3% and 10% of the funds, as determined by the ISBE Tier level for the local elementary school district. Grants may be used for projects such as adding on to existing facilities, constructing new buildings, or carrying out safety improvements or renovations in classrooms.

“There are so many great programs here in our community that I know could really benefit from this investment,” Koehler said. “I hope they’ll take advantage of this opportunity.”

Applications are due by Oct. 10, 2022. Interested organizations can find more information and apply online.