Illinois is offering $50 million in grants to help Federally Qualified Health Centers and look-alikes expand or renovate their facilities, Gov. J.B. Pritzker announced.
The community health center construction grants, part of the Rebuild Illinois Capital Program, aim to increase access to health care in underserved and rural areas. Eligible providers can apply for up to $3 million to enhance patient care, expand facility capacity, or update infrastructure.
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“While the federal government strips essential healthcare funding from communities in need, Illinois is stepping up to support accessible, high-quality healthcare for families across the state,” Pritzker said. “With these Rebuild Illinois grants, providers will have the opportunity to enhance their facilities, improve care for their communities, and support our state’s tireless efforts to fight against healthcare disparities.”
State officials emphasized that the funding is designed to reach neighborhoods and rural regions that have historically faced barriers to medical services. Many Federally Qualified Health Centers serve as the primary — and sometimes only — source of affordable care for low-income residents, seniors, and uninsured families. By expanding exam rooms, upgrading technology, and modernizing aging buildings, providers will be better equipped to meet rising demand for primary care, behavioral health, and dental services.
The grants will be administered by the Capital Development Board in collaboration with the Illinois Department of Public Health. TJ Edwards, executive director of the Capital Development Board, said the program supports both new and improved infrastructure and equitable access to essential services.
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“Rebuild Illinois not only supports new and improved infrastructure but also ensures communities in need have access to essential services,” Edwards said. “These capital investments continue to provide Illinoisans with equitable and reliable facilities that will improve health outcomes.”
Previous rounds of state support offer a preview of how the new funding may be used. Earlier grants have funded projects including adding medical exam rooms, expanding dental clinics, renovating laboratory space, installing electronic signage, and replacing facility roofs. Health centers have also used capital dollars to improve accessibility for patients with disabilities, upgrade HVAC systems, and create dedicated spaces for mental health counseling.
Advocates say the construction activity generated by the program will also provide an economic boost, creating jobs for architects, engineers, contractors, and suppliers across the Chicagoland and downstate regions. Modernized clinics are expected to reduce emergency room visits by offering preventive and routine care closer to home.
More information and eligibility requirements can be found within the online grant application. State officials encourage interested providers to begin preparing project plans, budgets, and community impact statements ahead of submission deadlines.
Originally reported by Chicago Construction News.
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