State Senator Christopher Belt announced two small Metro East manufacturers have been selected to participate in and receive state funding through the Made in Illinois Grant Program.

“Small and mid-sized manufacturers need a fair shot to keep doing what they do best,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “This support helps them stay strong, keep people working and build up our local economy.”

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 Belt’s district, Allnex, located in East. St. Louis, and Gasket and Seal Fabricators, located in Sauget, were selected as recipients of the 2025 Made in Illinois Grant Program. 

“Working people are the backbone of the Metro East, and this is about standing up for the folks who work hard every day to build things that matter,” said Belt. “These grants help make sure we keep building things right here, not overseas.”

A full list of recipients can be found here.