The Office of Urban Assistance was formed within DCEO in November 2009. Its mission is to create and implement policies designed to address the pressing economic needs of residents, businesses and stakeholders in the state's urban areas.
 

The Office of Urban Assistance will oversee existing programs such as the Employment Opportunities Grant Program; and implement new strategies such as the Urban Weatherization Initiative and the Illinois Fresh Food Financing Initiative.

In addition to these programs, the office will be responsible for:

  • Incentivizing new industrial enterprises to locate in the urban areas of Illinois, thereby stimulating local economies and creating jobs;
  • Gathering and providing information on revitalization efforts of urban areas to public and private entities;
  • Recommending and formulating policies that result in the reconstruction of urban economies; and
  • Recommending urban economic policies to the General Assembly and Governor relating to a wide variety of topics including, but not limited to:  housing, urban youth unemployment, and business incubators.

For additional information, please contact:
Office of Urban Assistance
312/814-2639

Urban Assistance Enabling Statute

Office of Urban Assistance Projects