Discover strategies for unlocking capital for communities in Illinois.
Illinois Extension will host a webinar highlighting how the Illinois Finance Authority (IFA) helps communities close funding gaps for major public improvements and clean energy projects. The session will outline program eligibility, strategies for staying connected to IFA resources, and new opportunities emerging in the state’s evolving funding landscape.
Local government officials, economic development professionals, nonprofit executives, agricultural lenders, and other community stakeholders interested in rural revitalization are encouraged to participate.
Presenters
Jakub Budz is the program associate at the Illinois Finance Authority with over two years of experience developing and maintaining grant and loan programs under the Climate Bank. He focuses on managing projects and relationships with grantees, vendors, and others to ensure operational efficiency and compliance. Jakub holds a bachelor’s degree and a master’s in public policy from the University of Chicago.
Matthew Marchbanks is the climate bank associate at Illinois Finance Authority. Matthew is a graduate of Howard University and currently attends Rockford University’s MBA program. After completing the Illinois Finance Authority’s 2025 Annual Internship Program, he joined the team as a climate bank associate, supporting program operations and strengthening outreach efforts across Illinois.
The Illinois Finance Authority (IFA) is a vital resource for rural economic development. As the state’s conduit issuer, it provides public agencies, nonprofits, and businesses with access to low-cost capital for projects that drive economic development and improve quality of life. Whether it’s managing large-scale infrastructure projects, helping nonprofits refinance debt, or supporting beginning farmers in acquiring land, the IFA bridges the gap between ambitious goals and affordable funding. Since 2004, IFA has supported thousands of projects across every Illinois county.