Cook County Announces Grant Program for Casting and Forging Businesses

COOK COUNTY, IL – Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle announced today the launch of Cook County Forging Growth, a new grant program designed to strengthen local casting and forging manufacturers, expand supply-chain opportunities and position the region’s industrial sector for long-term growth.

The program reflects Cook County’s broader commitment to advancing a modern, resilient manufacturing economy by connecting businesses with technical expertise, strategic planning and collaborative partnerships that help them compete in evolving markets. 

Applications for the program are due by March 31, 2026.

“Manufacturing has long been a cornerstone of Cook County’s economy, providing jobs, supporting regional supply chains and driving innovation,” said President Preckwinkle. “Through Cook County Forging Growth, we are investing in the future by helping local businesses modernize operations, strengthen partnerships and compete for new opportunities. We’re also working alongside industry to build a stronger, more resilient regional economy.”

Participating casting and forging businesses will be part of a six-month cohort allowing them to share best practices, conduct joint marketing efforts and attend expert-led workshops. Each participant will also receive a custom roadmap identifying top priorities and solutions.

To be eligible, casting and forging businesses must have a manufacturing location in Cook County and have a North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) Code that begins with either 3315 (foundries) or 3321 (forging and stamping firms). 

Participating businesses will be reimbursed 50 percent of their total program costs, up to $35,000.

Funding for Cook County Forging Growth comes from a $5 million grant that the Illinois Defense Manufacturing Consortium (ILDMC), led by the University of Illinois-Chicago, received from the U.S. Department of Defense in 2022. Cook County Government is a partner in the ILDMC, which unites stakeholders from industry, community, government and academia to strengthen Illinois’ defense resilience.

The Cook County Bureau of Economic Development is leading Cook County Forging Growth. The Illinois Manufacturing Excellence Center (IMEC), which is also part of the ILDMC, will provide technical assistance to participating businesses.

“Manufacturers succeed when they have the right tools, the right strategy and the right partners,” said IMEC President David Boulay. “Cook County Forging Growth brings all three together. By combining peer collaboration with hands-on technical assistance, this program will help casting and forging companies modernize operations, pursue new opportunities and secure their place in the future of Illinois manufacturing.”

According to World Business Chicago, manufacturing employs more than 180,000 individuals and generates nearly $40 billion in gross domestic product in Cook County.  

Cook County Forging Growth is part of M3 Chicago (Metro, Manufacturing, Momentum), a County-supported initiative that helps manufacturers expand, network and access critical resources. For more information on Cook County Forging Growth, visit cookcountyil.gov/m3 or email m3@cookcountyil.gov.

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