CHAMPAIGN – State Senator Paul Faraci and the U.S. Economic Development Administration announced approximately $51 million for the Illinois Fermentation and Agriculture Biomanufacturing Tech Hub.

“I am thrilled to see the iFAB Tech Hub receive this funding,” said Faraci (D-Champaign). “This investment emphasizes the importance of promoting cutting-edge research and development in our state. We are paving the way for projects and services that will benefit our communities and economy for generations to come.”

The iFAB Tech Hub, led by the Integrated Bioprocessing Research Labortory at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, unites over 30 partners from academia, industry and government in Central Illinois to meet the growing demand for fermentation in biomanufacturing. Funding for the hub will be allocated through a Phase 2 Implementation grant to support infrastructure development and industry partnerships, positioning Illinois as a leader in precision fermentation.

CHAMPAIGN – In partnership with the United Way of Champaign County, State Senator Paul Faraci is collecting new, size four and five diapers for local families in need.

“Diapers are a significant expense for many families, and ensuring every child has access to clean, dry diapers is crucial for their health and well-being,” said Faraci (D-Champaign). “I encourage everyone who is able to contribute to this effort and make a difference in the lives of families in our community.”

Those interested in donating can drop off unopened, size four and five diapers at Faraci’s Champaign office, located at 45 E. University Ave., Suite 206, Champaign, IL 61820. He will be collecting diapers July 1 through July 15.

For more information, reach out to Faraci’s office at (217) 355-5252. The United Way of Champaign County will be accepting monetary donations for the drive here.

CHAMPAIGN – Building upon the smart infrastructure investments supported by State Senator Paul Faraci, the Illinois Department of Transportation announced an investment of over $85 million in road and bridge improvement projects across Champaign and Vermilion counties.

“These investments are essential for ensuring the safety and efficiency of the transportation infrastructure in our communities,” said Faraci (D-Champaign). “With this funding, we are upholding our commitment to making travel safer for all the families and businesses in our state.”

As part of IDOT’s latest Multi-Year Plan under Rebuild Illinois, the district Faraci represents will see 22 infrastructure projects totaling more than $85 million next year.

SPRINGFIELD – A new law supported by State Senator Paul Faraci establishes a new state agency – the Department of Early Childhood – to streamline the administration of early childhood education, care programs and services.

“Right now, early childhood programs are offered in piecemeal by three different state agencies,” said Faraci (D-Champaign). “Streamlining this down to one department makes it easier for parents to figure what resources are available.”

Beginning July 1, the law creates the Department of Early Childhood, which will focus on administering early childhood education programs. The new agency is dedicated to making access to such state programs easier for parents and providers to navigate.