More than $480,000 in tourism grants coming to Metro East thanks to Belt

EAST ST. LOUIS – State Senator Christopher Belt secured nearly half a million dollars in grant funding to boost tourism in the Metro East.

“Investing in tourism brings more people to Illinois, boosting the local economy and creating more jobs,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “With the Metro East bordering Missouri, we have seen how these investments encourage people to visit from out of state. Whether you’re a family-owned restaurant or a new boutique, investments in tourism help our entire community.”

Administered by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, a total of $6.3 million was awarded to 36 grantees through the Route 66 Grant Program, Tourism Attractions Grant Program and Tourism Private Sector Grant Program.

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Belt: Education is the government’s best return on investment

CHICAGO – Understanding that the college admissions process can be difficult for students to navigate, State Senator Christopher Belt worked to make the process easier for high school juniors, seniors and community college transfer students.

“Investing in our students is by far the best return on investment the government could get,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “This is essentially an automatic admissions program that students can opt in to. It will really help streamline the process for students and their families.”

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Two Metro East manufacturers receive state funding thanks to Belt

State Senator Christopher Belt announced two small Metro East manufacturers have been selected to participate in and receive state funding through the Made in Illinois Grant Program.

“Small and mid-sized manufacturers need a fair shot to keep doing what they do best,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “This support helps them stay strong, keep people working and build up our local economy.”

The Made in Illinois Grant Program provides matching grants of up to $50,000 to help small and mid-sized manufacturers invest in strategic projects that fuel innovation, increase productivity and enhance competitiveness. In 2025, the program awarded $1.35 million to 29 manufacturers employing a combined 1,120 individuals supporting projects that represent a total investment of over $38.3 million statewide.

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Belt announces over $4.5 million for local renewable energy developments

State Senator Christopher Belt announced that over $4.5 million in state grant funding has been awarded to support clean energy development and workforce initiatives across the 57^th Senate District.

“With the state moving full speed ahead on green energy, it’s only right that our communities receive the support we need to be part of that future,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “We’re not asking for special treatment — just our fair share.”

The Equitable Energy Future Grant Program delivers seed and pre-development funding to equity-eligible contractors, nonprofits and cooperatives working on renewable energy and energy efficiency projects in low-income and historically disadvantaged communities. The program is a critical part of the state’s work to expand access to clean energy while reducing systemic barriers to development.

Read more: Belt announces over $4.5 million for local renewable energy developments