Cedric Giles County Clerk | Cook County Government
Cedric Giles County Clerk | Cook County Government
Cook County has launched a new Creative Placemaking grant program aimed at boosting the arts and culture sector in suburban areas. The initiative, announced by Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle, is part of the broader Cook County Arts initiative. It will provide $2 million in grants ranging from $50,000 to $250,000 to nonprofit organizations that lead collaborative creative placemaking projects.
President Preckwinkle emphasized the importance of the arts sector, stating, “The arts represent an important economic sector that directly generates revenue, creates jobs and contributes to community well-being and vitality.” She added that her administration is committed to fostering communities where people want to live, work, and play.
Creative placemaking involves integrating arts, culture, and design into efforts supporting social, physical, and economic change. Projects may include renovating historic theaters or transforming vacant lots into community spaces. Nonprofit organizations in collaboration with community stakeholders can apply for these grants until April 7, 2025.
The program aims to support artists' livelihoods while highlighting arts and culture as drivers of community pride and economic vitality. The Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) will manage the application process and provide technical assistance. LISC's Senior Executive Director Meghan Harte noted the initiative's role in revitalizing communities economically and culturally.
Cook County Arts has also partnered with Arts Alliance Illinois to consult on the program. Claire Rice from Arts Alliance Illinois expressed excitement about this public investment: “Artists, creative small businesses and organizations are a key part of creating and sustaining thriving suburban communities.”
The Cook County Arts initiative was established in 2024 with funding from the American Rescue Plan Act. It aims to mitigate the pandemic's negative impact on arts organizations that have faced challenges due to operational changes and decreased revenue.
For more information or to apply for a grant, visit cookcountyarts.org.
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