SPRINGFIELD, IL — The Illinois Stewardship Alliance is encouraging farmers, food businesses, cooperatives, and community organizations across the state to apply now for the Fiscal Year 2026 Local Food Infrastructure Grant (LFIG) program, with the enrollment period open through March 27.
Applications opened February 18, marking another important opportunity for Illinois producers and food system partners to invest in the infrastructure that makes local food systems viable and resilient. The program supports projects such as cold storage, processing equipment, aggregation facilities, transportation capacity, and distribution systems — the essential links that move Illinois-grown food from farms to local markets, schools, grocers, and families.
“Local food doesn’t move itself,” said Liz Moran Stelk, Executive Director of the Illinois Stewardship Alliance. “Farmers across Illinois are ready to meet growing demand for locally produced food, but they need the infrastructure to do it. The LFIG program helps close that gap, strengthening farms, communities, and our state’s economy at the same time.”
Since its launch, LFIG has demonstrated strong interest from farmers and food businesses seeking to expand market access and improve operational efficiency. Previous funding rounds drew significant demand, highlighting both the opportunity and the ongoing need for infrastructure investment across Illinois’ food system.
Grant recipients from earlier cycles illustrate the program’s impact.
In Urbana, Sola Gratia Farm used LFIG support to expand refrigerated transportation and food distribution capacity. The nonprofit farm, which prioritizes food access and community partnerships, now delivers more fresh produce to schools, food pantries, and neighborhood markets while reducing spoilage and improving logistical efficiency. The investment strengthened both farm viability and local food access.
In McLean County, Funks Grove Heritage Fruits & Grains invested in grain handling and processing improvements. By enhancing on-site processing capacity, the farm reduced transportation burdens and improved product quality, allowing more value to remain within the regional food economy. The project demonstrates how targeted infrastructure support can unlock new market opportunities while reinforcing rural economic development.
“These are exactly the kinds of ripple effects we envisioned,” Stelk said. “When you invest in infrastructure, you’re not just helping one farm. You’re supporting jobs, improving food access, strengthening supply chains, and keeping food dollars circulating in Illinois communities.”
As Illinois prepares to debate the next state budget this spring, the Alliance says strong participation in the FY2026 enrollment period will underscore the importance of continuing the program.
“Momentum matters,” Stelk added. “The response to this year’s application cycle will help show policymakers how much demand still exists and how much opportunity remains. If Illinois wants to continue building resilient local food systems, another round of funding must be part of the next state budget.”
Local food infrastructure plays a critical role in expanding market access for small and mid-sized producers, improving food security in both rural and urban communities, and strengthening the state’s agricultural economy. By supporting storage, processing, and distribution investments, LFIG helps farms scale responsibly while reducing food waste and increasing year-round availability of Illinois-grown products.
The Alliance is encouraging eligible applicants to begin preparing materials now, including detailed project plans, budgets, and potential collaborative partnerships. Strong applications typically demonstrate clear community impact, economic viability, and the ability to expand local food access. Beyond the application process itself, the Alliance is also urging farmers, food businesses, and advocates to share their stories and engage with lawmakers as budget discussions begin.
“Local food infrastructure is essential infrastructure,” Stelk said. “Illinois has made meaningful progress, but we cannot afford to stall. Continued investment will ensure farmers can grow, communities can access fresh food, and our food system can remain resilient in the face of economic and supply chain challenges.”
The enrollment period for the Fiscal Year 2026 Local Food Infrastructure Grant program runs through March 27.
Learn more about eligibility and application details at:
https://agr.illinois.gov/assistance/illinoisfarmprograms/lfig.html
About Illinois Stewardship Alliance
We bring together farmers and eaters to reshape and regenerate a stronger, more diverse local food and farm system. We form a powerful voice at every table where policy decisions are made to advocate for an Illinois where farmers earn a living as responsible stewards of the land who feed our communities, and where people can easily and affordably find and buy local food that aligns with their values for more vibrant and healthier communities. Learn more: https://www.ilstewards.org/