Carl Sandburg College will receive $1,811,907 from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity’s Tech Incubator Enhancement Grant Program to establish a new agriculture technology-focused incubator in downtown Galesburg.
The announcement was made Thursday afternoon by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity.
The 518 Collective aims to foster entrepreneurship in next-generation agriculture and food processing, providing startups with dedicated physical space, advanced equipment, and resources to develop innovative solutions. The project aligns with Illinois’ Economic Growth Plan, which prioritizes key industries like ag tech, life sciences, quantum, AI, and advanced manufacturing.
“On behalf of Carl Sandburg College, our heartfelt thanks for approving the 518 Collective for full funding,” said Dr. Seamus Reilly, President, and Eric Johnson, Vice President of Advancement at Carl Sandburg College in a joint statement.
“We are looking forward to working with DCEO to see this vision come to fruition. This award will be transformative for the lives of individuals and the economic vitality of our district.”
The grant, part of a $7 million initiative distributed among four grantees statewide, will support the creation of a dynamic hub to drive economic growth and innovation in western Illinois.
Ken Springer, president of Knox County Area Partnership for Economic Development, tells WGIL, “I can foresee a lot of cool collaboration opportunities between the College, local businesses, investors and entrepreneurs happening because of this project.
“The Knox County Area Partnership is very excited about the recent funding announcement for the State’s Tech Incubator Enhancement Grants. Sandburg’s team did a great job putting together a vision for the project and I know the 518 Collective will be a great addition to Galesburg’s downtown.”
Sen. Mike Halpin (D-36) added, “This award will be transformative for the lives of individuals and the economic vitality of our district.”
