CHICAGO, Ill. (WCIA) — Four small to mid-sized Central Illinois manufacturers received parts of a $1.7 million state grant to encourage growth and innovation.

The Made in Illinois Grant Program awarded more than $30,000 each to manufacturers in Champaign, Danville, and Jacksonville. Through Governor JB Pritzker, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) and the grant administration of the Illinois Manufacturing Excellence Center (IMEC), the Made in Illinois program provides up to $50,000 in matching grant funding.

Danville gets $1.4M grant for home rehab projects

“Manufacturing is on the rise in Illinois and my administration is providing local manufacturers with the resources they need to compete in the future,” Governor JB Pritzker said. “Thanks to this grant, 40 diverse recipients across the state will receive the capital they need to advance innovation in their field.”

Grant program recipients specialize in an array of manufacturing sectors in several state locations. Here are the Central Illinois grantees:

The awarded funds will be used in a variety of ways, including machinery acquisition, 3D printers, specialized automation equipment, collaborative robotics and late-stage product testing and scaling efforts.

“Manufacturing is evolving rapidly, and staying current can be costly,” said Kurt Wagner, CEO of Wagner Machine in Champaign. “Over the past five years, there’s been significant investment in new equipment. Automating processes has been a critical strategic move and seeking assistance has proved highly advantageous during this transition period. Automation has enabled the workforce to focus on higher-value tasks, enhancing efficiency, and quality improvements. This has led to continued job creation and an increase in machinist wages.”

Danville starts Matching Grant Program for local Neighborhood Associations

By putting funds towards Illinois’ essential manufacturing base and allowing for competition, industry advancement, job creation and innovation, the Made in Illinois program aims to foster economic prosperity throughout local communities statewide.

“Illinois is a globally recognized manufacturing leader and small and medium-sized manufacturers are a critical part of our state’s manufacturing sector and economy,” said DCEO Director Kristin Richards. “Through the Made in Illinois Program, the State is reinforcing its commitment to providing resources and opportunities to Illinois’ world-class manufacturers while supporting communities across the state.”

IMEC President David Boulay believes the program’s contributions will play an important role in the positive growth of state manufacturing.

“The Made in Illinois Grant Program is just one example of the dedication to supporting Illinois manufacturers in their pursuit of excellence,” said IMEC President David Boulay. “By investing in innovation and strategic initiatives, these businesses are empowered to thrive and drive economic growth across the state.”

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCIA.com.