The City of Chicago has awarded $33 million in development grants to support 58 neighborhood-based projects, a package expected to leverage more than $90 million in total public and private investment across commercial corridors citywide.
Announced by Mayor Brandon Johnson and the Department of Planning and Development (DPD), the funding was distributed through competitive rounds of the Community Development Grant (CDG) and Neighborhood Opportunity Fund (NOF) programs. The selected projects span housing, small business expansion, cultural facilities, workforce development, and community services, with a strong concentration on the South, West, and Southwest sides.
“Lasting prosperity within our communities begins with revitalization efforts that center equity, community-driven development, and each neighborhood’s unique needs,” Johnson said. “Through this investment, the City is doubling down on its role as a partner, empowering the businesses and organizations that are already serving our people and shaping our city’s future.”
Nine projects received major grants ranging from $500,000 to $5 million, including intergenerational housing in South Shore, a new headquarters for a gun violence prevention organization in West Garfield Park, and multiple mixed-use and nonprofit developments along Madison Street and 26th Street. Four additional initiatives were awarded pre-development grants to advance design and engineering work, while 45 smaller projects received awards of up to $250,000 to support renovations and expansions for neighborhood-serving businesses.
DPD Commissioner Ciere Boatright said the projects were selected from nearly 400 applications based on readiness, financial need, neighborhood impact, and long-term community benefit.
The grants are funded through Tax Increment Financing, NOF proceeds, and Mayor Johnson’s $1.25 billion Housing and Economic Development Bond. The next application deadline for CDG and NOF programs is Feb. 13.
