IL HB4973

Authorizes the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity to issue competitive grants with 10-year terms to attract or retain conventions, meetings, sporting events, and trade shows in Illinois

Creates the Tourism Incentive Grant Program Fund in the State treasury, with $5,000,000 transferred annually from the General Revenue Fund beginning July 1, 2026

Sets room night thresholds for grant eligibility: events must generate more than 200 room nights outside Chicago or more than 5,000 room nights within Chicago

Caps grants at $1,000,000 per award cycle for entities outside Chicago, with new grant awards available every 3 years

Eligible applicants include certified convention and visitors bureaus, local governments, nonprofit and for-profit organizations, and convention center authorities