Chicago Construction News staff writer
The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) has announced $18 million in funding for the fourth round of the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program that provides training opportunities, expands the talent pipeline, and boosts diversity in the construction industry and building trades. Grantees will be selected through a competitive Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) process.
“Since 2021, the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program has broken down barriers in the construction industry by training and recruiting underrepresented Illinoisans for high-paying jobs,” Gov. JB Pritzker said in a statement. “With $18 million in available funding, I highly encourage all eligible organizations to apply to this competitive grant.”
The Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program launched in 2021 with the goal of increasing diversity and access to apprenticeship programs. Comprehensive pre-apprenticeship programs can help participants gain admission to apprenticeship programs, which provide a greater opportunity to start a long-lasting career in the construction trades.
“The Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program isn’t just about building infrastructure, it’s about building brighter futures,” said Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton. “The program opens doors to rewarding careers in construction and the trades, particularly for communities that have been historically underrepresented in these fields. By illuminating new pathways to fulfilling professions, we are reiterating Illinois’ commitment to equity and economic growth, ensuring that every resident has the opportunity to thrive.”
This round of funding will focus on awarding grants in geographic areas without pre-apprenticeship programs, while increasing the representation of underrepresented groups that are not served or are underserved by existing programs, including people of color, veterans, and women. The Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program will fund approximately 35 programs throughout the state including new grantees, serving more than 1,400 residents.
“This funding is critical to building upon Illinois’ efforts to diversify the trade industry,” said Rep. Maurice West (D-Rockford). “The Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program equips participants with the resources and training they need to succeed.”
Participants attend tuition-free and receive a stipend and other supportive, barrier reduction services, to help enter the construction industry. Upon completion of the program, pre-apprentices receive industry aligned certifications which will prepare and qualify them to continue to a registered apprenticeship program in one of the trades.
Eligible applicants include non-profit, community-based organizations, such as industry associations, chambers of commerce, local workforce areas, community colleges, technical schools, and school districts.
Experienced and new providers are encouraged to apply, along with existing Illinois Works grantees who propose to serve a different geographic area or Economic Development Region than they were originally contracted to serve.
Priority will be given to applicants serving priority Economic Development Regions and underrepresented populations as outlined in the NOFO.
Qualified entities can apply for grants between $150,000 to $550,000. Applications will be accepted until August 30, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. To view the NOFO and apply for the grant, please visit the DCEO website. Interested parties are encouraged to reach out to CE***********@il******.gov for application assistance.
DCEO will also be providing technical assistance in the form of webinars, regional meetings, and FAQ. More information will be posted on the DCEO website.
