A $200,000 allocation for the Chicago Southland Economic Development Corporation put forth by Rep. Robin Kelly, D-Ill., has been accepted for inclusion in the proposed 2022 federal budget.
The funding will be used for the 4343 Ascending House project, a tech incubator, that will support start-ups by providing the necessary software, tools and connections to interns and new employees that start-ups otherwise may not be able to access due to high costs and the challenges of starting a new business.
The Chicago Southland Economic Development Corporation (CSEDC) is collaborating with partners to create 4343 Ascending House. The funding will support its incubator pilot programs, including creating a video conference center, a podcast studio and an advanced printing lab. These resources will support the E-Commerce Entrepreneurs training program which operates InternMatch Illinois, a match-making platform for small businesses to find the right interns.
“I am thrilled that my request for $200,000 to support the Chicago Southland Economic Development Corporation’s tech incubator project has been included in the FY2022 appropriations bill,” said Kelly. “Our entire community will benefit from continued support of innovative new projects and businesses. I look forward to seeing the work CSEDC will be able to do for Chicago and the South Suburbs once this bill has passed.”
“This is another indication that the federal government recognizes the need to invest in logistics and innovation to enhance the booming e-commerce industry that’s reshaping the Chicago Southland and reinforcing Illinois’ historic role as a leader in building wealth and opportunity for our citizens and our nation,” Reggie Greenwood, CSEDC executive director, said.
“By collaborating with community partners and engaging key business partners, such as Nicor Gas and Comcast, the 4343 Ascending House will help the Southland communities and small businesses thrive in the post-COVID-19 era.”
Congress members are allowed to submit 10 projects for review for funding. This is the first of Kelly’s projects to be notified that it will be included in the federal budget.