$15 Million State Funds Announced for Corn-To-Ethanol Research

Illinois is investing $17 million to expand the National Corn-to-Ethanol Research Center at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. Governor J.B. Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity announced the funding Friday. The package includes $15 million from state taxpayers and $2 million from the Illinois Corn Growers Association. Officials say the expansion is aimed at strengthening research into corn-based ethanol and supporting innovation in Illinois agriculture and energy production. The Edwardsville center is a key site for ethanol research, connecting university work with growers, fuel producers, and the broader biofuels industry.