Crestwood manufacturer to receive state funding thanks to Jones

CHICAGO – State Senator Emil Jones III announced Apparel Redefined has been selected to participate in and receive state funding through the Made in Illinois Grant Program.

“When we invest in small and mid-sized manufacturers, we support local businesses while boosting the local economy,” said Jones (D-Chicago). “This grant will help ensure things continue to be made in Illinois, not overseas.”

The Made in Illinois Grant Program provides matching grants of up to $50,000 to help small and mid-sized manufacturers invest in strategic projects that fuel innovation, increase productivity and enhance competitiveness. In 2025, the program awarded $1.35 million to 29 manufacturers employing a combined 1,120 individuals supporting projects that represent a total investment of over $38.3 million statewide.

In Jones’ district, Apparel Redefined, located in Crestwood, was selected as a recipient of the 2025 Made in Illinois Grant Program. 

A full list of recipients can be found here.

Jones announces over $2 million for local renewable energy developments

CHICAGO – State Senator Emil Jones III announced that over $2 million in state grant funding has been awarded to support clean energy development and workforce initiatives across the 14^th Senate District.

“As the state continues to equitably grow the clean energy workforce and development, I am proud that investments are being made in our communities,” said Jones (D-Chicago). 

The Equitable Energy Future Grant Program delivers seed and pre-development funding to equity-eligible contractors, nonprofits and cooperatives working on renewable energy and energy efficiency projects in low-income and historically disadvantaged communities. The program is a critical part of the state’s work to expand access to clean energy while reducing systemic barriers to development.

Three projects in Jones’s district received a combined $2.3 million in funding, including:

• $752,819 for Up House Renewable Energy Project in Blue Island
• $968,578 for Rooftop Solar Project in Calumet Park
• $640,300 for the City of Robbins Community Center Renovation

“I am going to keep fighting to make sure the 14^th District and underserved communities get the investments we deserve,” said Jones.

The full list of this round’s grant recipients can be found here. ​Application information for the next round of funding, open now through Dec. 31, can be found here.

Jones shines light on state budget wins as darkness looms in Washington

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Emil Jones III released the following statement after voting for the Fiscal Year 2026 budget:

“In light of the federal administration, this year’s balanced budget stays true to our commitment to fiscal responsibility – prioritizing the needs of the working class and our most vulnerable populations. With the uncertainty in Washington, health care is a top priority now more than ever.

“When we put people first, we can reach our economic and academic goals. I’ve been committed to ensuring we make the necessary investments in our education system while prioritizing educators and students. We made a commitment to adequately fund our schools, and that’s what this budget does.”