The Illinois grocery initiative reached a major milestone as Gov. JB Pritzker broke ground on a new grocery store in Venice, a project designed to restore fresh food access for Metro East families and jump-start long-term community renewal.
State leaders and private investors gathered on November 5, 2025, to highlight the $5.9 million effort, which combines a $2.4 million state grant with major private funding to address a long-standing food access gap.
State Leaders Push Forward on Food Access
Pritzker said every resident deserves reliable, affordable grocery options, no matter their ZIP code. He said the Illinois grocery initiative strengthens small grocers, opens new stores in food deserts, and supports economic growth across the state.
Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton added that the Venice store marks real progress toward ending food deserts across the state. She said local stores provide jobs, support farmers, and strengthen regional economies.
Illinois Grocery Initiative Expands Statewide Reach
Launched in 2023, the Illinois grocery initiative includes two major programs: New Stores in Food Deserts and Equipment Upgrades. Together, they help communities build new supermarkets and improve existing ones.
The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity has awarded $18.1 million across the state. That includes $16.5 million for new stores and $1.6 million for equipment upgrades.
Support covers renovations, refrigeration systems, and first-year operating costs. It also includes business planning, marketing, supply chain support, and workforce training.
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Private Investment Accelerates Venice Project
Dr. Ed Hightower invested $3.5 million into the Venice Market. The retired educator and former NCAA basketball referee said the store represents a chance to restore pride in a town with deep roots.
He credited state and local partners for backing a vision that he believes will shape the city for generations.
Local Leaders See a Turning Point
Venice Mayor Phil White said families waited far too long for grocery access, calling the groundbreaking a shift toward dignity and opportunity.
Madison County Board Chair Chris Slusser pointed to new housing, new businesses, and the store development as signs that Venice is regaining momentum. He said Hightower’s leadership played a key role in the community’s turnaround.
State Sen. Christopher Belt said Venice’s progress should give hope to small Illinois towns with similar challenges.
Food Deserts Still Drive Urgent Need
Venice remains a food desert, with residents traveling long distances for fresh food or relying on discount outlets. Cuts to SNAP benefits have increased pressure on families.
Pritzker’s administration ties food access to economic development and community revitalization. The Illinois grocery initiative is central to that strategy, providing direct financial and technical support to high-need communities.
Grant Opportunities Remain Open
Round II of the Equipment Upgrades Grant Program remains open until December 15 or until funds run out. Eligible applicants include independent grocers with fewer than 500 employees and no more than four locations.
The Venice Market now stands as a visible example of how the Illinois grocery initiative can restore essential services and spark long-term neighborhood renewal.