General

1. Can funding be used to create Youth Apprenticeship programs?
   
   

   Yes, youth apprenticeship programs are eligible for support under this funding opportunity.
   

2. When is the Bidder's Conference?
   
   

   The Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity will hold a virtual information session​ for the 2025 Apprenticeship Illinois Competitive Grant Program​ on February 18, 2025,​ from 2:00pm-4:00pm.​ In-person workshops will be held in Chicago on February 24, 2025 and Springfield on February 28, 2025​.
   

3. When is the deadline to apply?
   
   
   All required documentation must be submitted by 11:59pm on March 21, 2025.
   
4. Would a pre-existing construction related U.S. DOL approved apprenticeship fall into the parameters of this grant?
   
   
   Yes, if the applicant organization is able to provide all of the required elements and services outlined in the NOFO.​
   
5. Would we be able to serve those that are currently incarcerated with this grant?
   
   
   Yes, if the program meets the requirements of the grant. Any apprenticeship program activities funded under this grant must be registered by the U.S. Department of Labor and meet the registered apprenticeship requirements, which includes employment with a minimum of 2,000 hours of on-the-job learning. If your program includes pre-apprenticeship activities, then in order to be eligible for funding, you must demonstrate that you are actively creating a registered apprenticeship program with employers for your pre-apprentices to enter into before the end of the grant period.