IL SB3972

Establishes the Hydroponic Initiative Grant Program through the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity to fund hydroponic agriculture facilities in food deserts and areas with vacant commercial space.

Grants may cover market feasibility studies, purchase of vacant commercial buildings, capital improvements, renovations, and equipment purchases.

Maximum grant award is $1,000,000 per applicant or 25% of total project cost, whichever is less.

Defines food deserts as census tracts with at least 20% poverty rate (or median family income ≤80% of statewide/metro median) where residents live more than 10 miles (rural) or 0.5 miles (urban) from the nearest grocery store.

Commercial space must have been vacant for at least 6 months to qualify; program is subject to appropriation and takes effect immediately.