Probable transcription factor acting as a positive regulator in the ethylene response pathway. Could bind the primary ethylene response element present in the ETHYLENE-RESPONSE-FACTOR1 promoter. Acts as homodimer to bind the primary ethylene response element. Loss-of-function mutations (EIL1-1 and EIL1-2) in the gene show a weak ethylene-insensitive phenotype. Belongs to the EIN3 family.