FRANKFORT – State Senator Michael E. Hastings announced an Oak Forest manufacturer has been selected to participate in and receive state funding through the Made in Illinois Grant Program.
“To keep up with big business, small-scale local manufacturers need support to help them thrive and achieve their goals,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “Fighting for small and mid-sized businesses in the 19th District keeps people working and strengthens 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 Hastings’ district, E. Formella & Sons, Inc., located in Oak Forest, was selected as a recipient of the 2025 Made in Illinois Grant Program.
“E. Formella & Sons, Inc. is very appreciative of the grant awarded. We are a fourth generation family owned business who is known for the giardiniera & muffuletta, shelf stable items,” said Kathy Formella, owner of E. Formella & Sons, Inc. “The money from the grant will be used to increase production capacity purchasing new equipment for these new offerings which is necessary to compete with larger brands while maintaining a superior quality. We will be able to compete in broader markets, reduce waste, enhance food safety and produce a clean product with no preservatives.”
A full list of recipients can be found here.
