ROCK ISLAND – State Senator Mike Halpin announced that three businesses in the QC area have been awarded grants through the Made in Illinois Grant Program.

“It’s good to see the state investing in the businesses that are making products right here at home,” said Halpin (D-Rock Island). “We need more Illinois-made products so we don't have to rely on overseas manufacturers.”

The program, which provides up to $50,000 in matching grant funding, is dedicated to fostering innovation and strategic advancements within the Illinois manufacturing sector. Forty recipients across the state were awarded a combined total of $1.7 million.

Moline Welding, Tri-City Heat Treat Company and Whitey’s Ice Cream were each awarded $47,420 in funding.

“These three local companies are being awarded for choosing Illinois as their home and because of the impact they have on our local economy,” said Halpin. “Programs like these are why I think our state is moving in the right direction.”

In addition to the grant opportunity, the Made in Illinois Grant Program also offers manufacturers the chance to access resources and expertise focused on productivity, cost-effective innovation, quality improvement, workforce support, market leadership, flexibility and resilience.

To learn more about the Made in Illinois Grant Program, visit the IMEC website.