Committee approves $30,000 for Connect DuPage supplier program and accepts $33,500 211 Illinois grant

The Finance Committee approved FIR 0067-26, a $30,000 agreement between DuPage County and Choose DuPage to support the Connect DuPage supplier program, and separately accepted FIR 0072-26, a $33,500 211 Illinois program grant for program year 2026.

Member DeSart moved the Choose DuPage agreement and Member Heather seconded. Member Zay asked for metrics on small-business participation and success; Greg Bedalov of Choose DuPage came forward and said the organization had presented data to the Economic Development Committee the prior week and could circulate the numbers to finance committee members.

The 211 Illinois grant acceptance was moved by Member Swartz Z and seconded by Member Heather; the committee approved the appropriation of $33,500.

Both items passed by voice vote. Members requested that the Choose DuPage presentation materials (registration numbers, success stories and challenges) be circulated to the board.