HotHouse just received a $200,000 grant from the state of Illinois.

We’re thrilled that the state believes in HotHouse. This grant is an important step on our journey to reopen in Bronzeville. The award comes in addition to the $154,000 from individual donors since the project was made public in 2022.

Representative Kimberly Du Buclet said of this award, "I am beyond pleased to see HotHouse receive this impactful grant and return to serving the community. Now more than ever, our community and city needs cultural awareness programming and venues for creative expression. I am confident that HotHouse will deliver all we need and more." Rep. Du Buclet represents Illinois' 5th District, which includes the Bronzeville neighborhood.

A capital campaign will be officially launched once HotHouse secures additional funding to retain a development director and gain site control. In the past year, the board has expanded the core team to add real estate consultant Teresa Prim, finish most of the pre-facility due diligence on the property and gain significant endorsements from Alder Dowell, State Representative du Buclet, and neighborhood groups.

The overall plan for the cultural campus is to repurpose the dormant former Donnelley Youth Center and adjacent properties into multipurpose facility hosting grassroots community projects and the award-winning programming and international exchange initiatives that have been the hallmark of our work since 1988.

HotHouse has grown over three decades thanks to the generosity of people like you. Our brand has thrived in spite of not having a venue for many years. This has been due to the strength of the relationships we have developed, and the vision of our service to the city. We couldn't have done it without you, and truly appreciate your continued support. Together, we can make HotHouse in Bronzeville a reality!

You can read about the grant at Chicago Yimby. Block Club and New City

‍