ROCK ISLAND – In a move to strengthen Western Illinois’ competitiveness, spark innovation, and grow the economy, State Senator Mike Halpin announced a grantee in Galesburg received over $1.8 million in funding through the Tech Incubator Enhancement Grant Program.

“This funding will give Galesburg and the broader region a boost in competitiveness and create a pro-growth environment for agricultural tech startups,” said Halpin (D-Rock Island). “This exciting ag tech incubator connects innovators, higher education and workforce development together to grow Western Illinois’ economy.”

In partnership with the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity this initiative is designed to support entrepreneurship and innovation in key growth industries throughout Illinois.

The Galesburg grant will fund a new ag tech-focused incubator project proposed for downtown Galesburg. The 518 Collective will provide physical workspace, business development services, workforce trainings, mentorship, and networking opportunities to help early-stage companies succeed.

The TIEG Program was designed to modernize and revitalize tech incubators across Illinois to meet the evolving needs of startups. The initiative aims to support the transformation of tech spaces, fostering an ecosystem of innovation, collaboration and resilience. Through the program, four grantees were awarded a total of $7 million in funding to strengthen the resilience of both existing and new startup incubators.

“As the state works toward achieving the goals outlined in Illinois’ Economic Growth Plan, grantees in the TIEG Program will help us strengthen our growing technology network,” said DCEO Director Kristin Richards. “Strategic incentivized investments in key sectors will provide critical support to both new and existing technology incubators throughout the state.”

A full list of awardees can be found here.