Barrier Reduction

1. Can a request for stand-alone barrier reduction be used to support another DCEO grant?
   
   

   Yes. Reference page 6-7, 12, 20-22 and Appendix B.
   

   2. Can barrier reduction funding be used for scholarships for higher education or trade education?

   Yes, it can qualify.

   3. Can Barrier Reduction Funding be used for scholarships or grants to pursue higher education or vocational tuition for program participants?

   Barrier reduction funds can be used, but the better fit is to pay for scholarships and tuition under the training line item.

   4. Do applicants applying only for Barrier Reduction Funding (standalone) need to show the Target Populations have been affected by COVID-19?

   Funding must be used to assist individuals who:
   

   Reside in or receive job training services in a qualified census tract or in a disproportionately impacted area (identified at this link illinoisworknet.com/qctdiamap); or

   Who have experienced negative economic or public health impacts resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic as defined in the JTED rules (56 Ill. Admin. Code 2660.20) and defined in Appendix A. Reference page 6-7 of NOFO.

   5. Barrier Reduction Example: If a client needs a car repair, they can't afford it so we therefore can't reimburse them. Do we issue a payment directly to an auto shop?

   Yes, the grantee can issue direct payment directly to the auto shop in this example. 

   6. For Barrier Reduction Only Applicants: Can you include administrative costs and indirect costs in the budget as allowable?

   A:  Organizations that apply for Barrier Reduction Funding are allowed to request direct administrative costs to this grant if the costs are reasonable, necessary, and allocable to the grant. Generally speaking, Supportive Services and Barrier Reduction Funds are excluded from the calculation of indirect costs for most grantees.  It is expected that administrative costs, both direct and indirect, will represent a small portion of the program budget.

   7. If an agency is applying for barrier reduction funding only, are we required to fill out the entire narrative or just the portion related to barrier reduction?

   An applicant submitting for barrier reduction funding only needs to complete the questions related to barrier reduction only and not the full application.

   8. If an organization is applying for Barrier Reduction funds only, do the same eligibility requirements and performance goals apply? Will these clients be required to submit the same eligibility documentation, and will IWIS be used?

   Barrier Reduction eligibility is discussed on pages 6-7 of the NOFO.  Barrier Reduction Funding requested as a stand-alone grant should serve individuals that meet the definition of unemployed, under-employed or under-represented with a barrier to employment as set forth in this NOFO and who are or will be receiving job training services through a complementary grant or contract. In addition, for Barrier Reduction Funding requested in a stand-alone grant, the applicant must use the funds to assist individuals who:

   • Reside in or receive job training services in a qualified census tract or in a disproportionately impacted area (identified at this link illinoisworknet.com/qctdiamap) ; or

   • Who have experienced negative economic or public health impacts resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic as defined in the JTED rules (56 Ill. Admin. Code 2660.20) and defined in Appendix A. 

   Barrier Reduction performance goals are discussed on pages 14-15 of the NOFO.  Barrier Reduction funding is a new element to the JTED program. Under this NOFO an evaluation will be conducted to determine the impact of barrier reduction funding and best methods for measuring results.

   Illinois workNet's will be utilized to assess the need for and report the services provided through barrier reduction grants. (Page 15 of NOFO).
   

   9. If applying for Barrier Reduction as a stand-alone grant can be include personnel costs in the grant budget to administer the award; or will 100% of grant have to go to direct financial assistance?

   Organizations that apply for Barrier Reduction Funding as a stand-alone grant are allowed to request personnel and fringe benefits costs to this grant if the costs are reasonable, necessary and allocable to the grant.  Competitive applications will clearly demonstrate how the JTED funds will be administered in coordination with other funding sources (grants or contracts) to provide training, work-based learning, and career services to eligible program participants.

   10. In Appendix B – Sample Barrier Reduction Policy, tuition is listed as one of the 'Costs related to enrollment or completion of education and/or training.' Can you please confirm that tuition is an allowable expense to include in this grant budget?

   Tuition is an allowable expense under JTED.  Funding tuition under training should be the first consideration.

   11. Will there be more guidance on how to execute the Barrier Reduction fund?

   Yes, there will be more guidance on the Illinois workNet JTED NOFO Landing page.

   12. Does paying participants a stipend to attend programming fall under barrier reduction?

   A stipend can be used as a barrier reduction; however, the applicant must demonstrate how the stipend is incorporated into their workplan and the breakdown of the stipend should be reflected in the uniform budget template.
   

Co-Enrollment

1. Can an applicant use funding to leverage grants funded by the City of Chicago if the participants would be enrolled in two grants?
   
   

   Yes, however, applicants will need to specifically demonstrate how those funds will be leveraged. Participants can be duly enrolled, if they qualify for both programs, but applicants must ensure that sources are used appropriately when leveraging funds. Applicants need to specifically demonstrate how they will be leveraging funds.

   Section B of the budget summary has some criteria outlines to ensure that the funds applicants are leveraging from different programs are allowable. Reference page 4 of NOFO.

   2. Can applicants co-enroll into WIOA and blend funding when applicable?

   Yes, however, applicants must specifically demonstrate how funding will be leveraged.   Reference page 4 of NOFO.

   3. Can participants be co-enrolled in other workforce development programs if the services provided are not duplicated?

   Yes. Applicants need to specifically demonstrate how they will be leveraging funds. Reference page 4 of NOFO.
   

   4. Can participants currently be enrolled in WIOA and blend funding when applicable?

   Yes, participants can be co-enrolled. Applicants need to specifically demonstrate how they will be leveraging funds. Reference page 4 of NOFO.

   5. If an applicant is currently receiving funding for pre-employment services through DHS, could they still receive funding to utilize this as a pre/post-employment training and placement for the students we use in pre-employment in the current programs?

   Yes, grantees can certainly leverage funds. Applicants need to specifically demonstrate how they will be leveraging funds. Reference page 4 of NOFO.
   

Eligibility

1. In regard to eligibility, if an organization has approximately 60 full time staff but as an internship program, we are the employer of record for the population we serve, does the 250-employee threshold include any program participants on our payroll?
   
   

   If an organization has approximately 60 full time staff at the time of the application, then it is likely that the applicant:
   

   • Meets the preferences outlined in Section A, Part 3 of the NOFO that states . . .  "given the impact of COVID-19 on small businesses, proposals that provide partnerships with employers with 250 or fewer employees, regardless of industry, are encouraged to apply."

   • Meets the requirements outlined in Section A, Part 5,g. of the NOFO that states:   . . "for Incumbent Worker Training under JTED grant opportunity Category 2, above (only) and provides services to employers with 250 or less employees."

   2. To which categories does the "less than 250 employees" apply?
   

   All categories can work with employers with 250 or fewer employees regardless of industry.  Reference page 2 of the NOFO.

   3. To whom and under what conditions does the 250-employee cap apply?

   To support recovery of small businesses that were hit hard during the pandemic, entities can work with employers that have 250 or less employees regardless of industry.  This applies to all categories.   Reference page 2 of the NOFO.

   No caps or requirements have been set. There are no specific requirements other than organizations/employers 250 or less employees are encouraged to apply.

   An employer with 250 or less employees can serve any industry.
   

   4. Will participant's being served by the grant be required to meet WIOA eligibility requirements?

   No, WIOA eligibility is not required. Eligible participants consist of unemployed, under-employed, or under-represented individuals, including youth who have one or more barriers to employment as outlined on pages 2-4 of the NOFO.

   5. Are existing programs eligible for this opportunity?

   Yes, however, the applicant must demonstrate how they intend to leverage this funding to expand or improve their existing program. Reference page 4 of NOFO.

   6. Are we still eligible to apply if hiring new staff would be part of the application/required to implement the program?

   Yes, however the applicant must address the sustainability of the new staff member and how the organization plans to sustain their employment once the grant has ended. Reference page 17 and 26 of NOFO.

   7. Can programs serve Veterans or Persons with Disabilities?

   Yes. Reference page 2-4 of NOFO.

   8. Do eligible participants need to be part of the targeted populations and must reside or receive services in a target community?

   It can be one or the other. Eligible participants can either must reside in a target community or receive services in a target community. Reference page 2-7 of the NOFO.

   9. Do the participants need to reside in a QCT and/or DIA? Or do the businesses and/or services need to be in the QCT or DIA? Or both?

   Participants, either need to reside in or receive services in either a Qualified Census Tract (QCT) or a Disproportionately Impacted Area (DIA).  However, individuals that have experienced Negative economic or public health impacts due to Covid-19 can be served regardless of their residency.  Reference page 2-4 and 20 of NOFO and also the QCT DIA Map on Illinois workNet.

   10. Does this grant apply to a startup business/training school?

   The Job Training and Economic Development Program is not designed to fund startup businesses or education schools. Entities that apply must provide training services through eligible training providers defined below:

   "Eligible Training Provider" means an organization, such as a public or private college or university, an industry association, registered apprenticeship program, or a community-based organization that is approved to provide training services by the appropriate accrediting body [20 ILCS 605/605-415(b)].  

   DCEO provides small business assistance information at this site.

   11. Is Access Living, also known as a Center for Independent Living (CIL), eligible to apply?

   Yes, but only if they are eligible within one of the categories. Reference page 2 of NOFO.
   

Equity and Employment Plan

1. Where can one find an example Equity and Employment Plan?
   
   

   ​In Illinois workNet there are resources available (JTED Notice of Funding Opportunity 2021 (illinoisworknet.com).
   

Fiscal, Budget

1. As far Indirect Cost Rate, is this is to be negotiated after grant award, not prior to submission? If not prior to submission, what should be included in the grant request budget? An estimate/goal? Just the 10% de minimis?
   
   

   All grantees must complete an indirect cost rate negotiation or elect the De Minimis Rate to claim indirect costs. Indirect costs claimed without a negotiated rate or a De Minimis Rate election on record in the State of Illinois' centralized indirect cost rate system may be subject to disallowance.
   

   If an organization has not previously established an indirect cost rate, an indirect cost rate proposal must be submitted through State of Illinois' centralized indirect cost rate system no later than three months after receipt of a Notice of State Award (NOSA).
   

   2. The JTED website mentions that the grant period of performance is two years, from January 1, 2022-December 31,2023. Should the budget template reflect one year or two years of funding, and should the budget narrative be one year or two?

   The budget needs to reflect two-year funding, and that also applies to the budget narrative.

   3. Are applicants allowed to adjust to budget forms?

   Applicants can add rows and expand the text boxes in Section C - BUDGET WORKSHEET & NARRATIVE.  The other Sections of the Uniform Budget Template do not allow editing.

   4. Are pre-award costs included in the full award disbursement if contract is awarded?

   Pre-award costs for services in anticipation of an award are allowable, where necessary, for the efficient and timely performance of the program, and are subject to 2 CFR 200.458.  To be accepted, proof of services must meet the guidelines and requirements outlined within this NOFO.  Only applicants who receive an award as a result of the NOFO and merit-based review process will be eligible for pre-award costs. 

   4. Are the budget forms available?

   Yes, budget forms are available here.

   5. Are there any guidelines around the amount to pay for stipends?

   All cost should be necessary, reasonable, and allocable and comply with Uniform Guidance 2 CFR 200.

   6. Can participants be paid a stipend to attend?

   Yes, the grant does allow for stipends.

   7. Can youth be paid stipends for participating in training? (How about adults?)

   Yes, stipends are an allowable expenditure.

   8. Does paying participants a stipend to attend programming fall under barrier reduction?

   A stipend can be used as a barrier reduction; however, the applicant must demonstrate how the stipend is incorporated into their workplan and the breakdown of the stipend should be reflected in the uniform budget template.

   9. Can a grantee be the employer of record for the JTED program participants and receive reimbursement for the participant wages?

   Yes.  Section A, Part 1 of the NOFO outlines the Eligible Entities under the JTED Programs – this includes employers.

   10. Can a grantee provide a gas card rather than the transportation reimbursement model allowable?

   Yes.

   11. Can facility usage and costs be considered in-kind if you do not seek reimbursement?

   Yes, the in-kind should be reflected in Section B of the Uniform Budget Template and in Section C to provide an itemized breakout and budget narrative of the in-kind.

   12. Does in-kind cost need a value attached or only the narrative?

   In-kind costs will need a value attached and should be reflected in Section B and Section C of the budget template

   13. Can food be purchased under this grant? For example, snacks for youth during training.

   Food/Meals are allowed to the extent they are necessary to meet the objectives of the grant program. The cost is unallowable if it is categorized as "entertainment costs" per Uniform Guidance 2 CFR 200.438.

   14. Can sub-grantee be for-profit?

   Yes.

   15. Can the funding be used to pay for staff salaries at a nonprofit?

   Compensation of services for rendered during the period of the performance for the grant award is allowable. All Personnel and Positions budgeted should be reflected in Section C of the uniform budget template. 

   16. Can the grant be used to pay for a job coach for students with disabilities in an apprenticeship program and could help with job placement assistance for adult customers with significant barriers or disabilities as well?

   Yes, if eligibility requirements are met for this category. Reference pages 1-4 and pages 6-7 of the NOFO.

   17. Do we need to get approval for equipment over $5000 prior to submission of the grant or afterwards?

   If an applicant is including equipment over $5,000 in their budget, they must provide reasoning in their budget narrative. The applicant must receive written approval before the equipment purchase can be executed.

   18. Does the grant allow for the purchase of equipment? And if so, is there a limit to amount?

   Yes, equipment is an allowable expense. Prior written approval is required for all equipment purchases.

   19. Regarding the equipment cost, can cost can be used for direct student support, such as tools for students, but not for equipment in regard to program expansion?

   Equipment is an allowable expense. Prior written approval is required for all equipment purchases.

   20. Is equipment allowable for remote training expenses, e.g. video conferencing, classroom smart boards, etc.?

   Yes, if the course or training program is remote, any additional expenses involved with ensuring the participants can fully participant in those remote training courses are allowed.  If the expense is defined as "equipment", the applicant must receive written approval before the purchase is executed. 

   21. Doesn't the equipment category apply only to items costing $5000 or more and the rest put under supplies?

   Any supply $5,000 or more is considered equipment and will require approval.  

   If the equipment is related to the training or required for participants to complete training or coursework for direct student support, not program expansion, it is an allowable cost.

   22. For construction trades, if I need a circular saw can it be covered? if I need a laptop for the user to access online courses, can it be covered?

   
   

   Yes, both are allowable. 

   23. What about equipment for training programs such as welders or CNC equipment to train participants?

   If the equipment or costs are related to enrollment or completion of education or training program, they are allowable costs. 

   24. How do we present the sliding scale match in the Uniform Grant Budget Template? Do applicants just use an average for a number?

   According to the NOFO, there is no cost-sharing or matching requirement.

   25. Is there a match requirement?

   No, but a match is weighted in the scoring. Reference page 17 of NOFO.

   26. How would we pay for a phone bill?

   
   

   Successful applicants that include telecommunication services in their budget proposal would follow the applicant's fiscal policy and procedures to pay for a phone bill.  Any approved grant activity can be paid using JTED grant funds if the cost is included in the grant budget and the cost is reasonable, necessary, and is allocable to the JTED grant.  Please see the NOFO technical assistance sessions for more information regarding the fiscal management of the grant.

   
   

   27. If our organization has a Federally negotiated indirect cost rate, are we permitted to use that indirect cost rate as we craft our budget?

   Yes.  For more information on the Indirect cost rate options in the NOFO.

   28. Is the funding range of $500k-750k total for the whole 2-year grant period or is that annual?

   The funding range of $500,000-$750,000 is for the entire grant period. Reference page 1 and 17 of the NOFO.

   29. If you apply to more than one category in a single application, does this grant opportunity allow to apply for more than the stated range of $500k-$750K?

   The range is for the application.  DCEO can consider request hire than $750K based on the quality of the application and training proposed.

   30. Is there a list of allowable costs specific to this grant?

   According to the NOFO, allowable costs must be necessary, reasonable, and allocable based on the activity or activities contained in the scope of work.  Costs must be in accordance with the Uniform Guidance at 2 CFR 200 and the DOL Exceptions to the Uniform Guidance at 2 CFR 2900.  See the Uniform Budget Template INSTRUCTIONS Tab for a complete list of budget line items.

   31. Wages are reimbursable at 75%, does that mean, if a participant earns 10K, a grantee can request up to 7,500?

   A grantee can reimburse wages, only to the employer, up to 75% of the wages. So, the reimbursement would be to the employer for that percentage of wage.
   

   32. Does DCEO have targets or bands for cost per participant, etc.?

   Anticipated cost per participant can range from $2500 (original JTED) up to $20,000 based on program design and identified barriers of those served.
   

   33. I can't locate the link to complete the assessment in any of the JTED guidelines. Will the JTED programmatic risk assessment become available after the grant submission deadline, or am I missing something?

   Yes – the Program Risk Assessment will be sent out as part of the final review process.  This is not required to be completed at the time of grant submission.  

   34. We operate a food service program and catering program that employs the apprentices as well as full-time staff (potential placement for apprentices).  One of the barriers to expanding these programs is transportation.  We would like to know if we use this grant to fund the following to meet our transportation needs:

   1. A cargo van – to transport food for catering external organizations.
   2. A mini-school bus – to take the youth and apprentices to potential business partners in the culinary field.

   All costs included in the budget must be reasonable, necessary, and allocable to the training program that your organization operates to be an allowable cost under the grant program.  If the vehicles support other programs and activities that are also administered by your organization, then these other programs would be required to pay the proportional share of the cost of the vehicle(s) – to the extent that the other programs use or benefit from the vehicles.
   

GATA

1. Will the GATA portal be used for applications?
   
   

   The GATA portal will not be utilized for the submission of applications, but applicants must be registered with in the GATA Portal at the time of the grant application. The portal will verify that the applicant has the following pre-award requirements:
   

   1. Has a valid FEIN number

   2. Has a valid DUNS number

   3. Has a current SAM.gov account

   4. Is not on the Federal Excluded Parties List

   5. Is in Good Standing with the Illinois Secretary of State, as applicable

   6. Is not on the Illinois Stop Payment list

   7. Is not on the Department of Healthcare and Family Services Provider Sanctions list.

   2. Will the GATA prequalification portion be done before application, or confirmed after?

   Applicants must be registered in GATA portal at the time of application. Confirmation of prequalification requirements must be verified before an award can be issued.

   3. Is the application a part of the GATA portal?

   No.
   

General

1. Are additional items allowable via an Appendix section to the Smart Sheet?
   
   

   Additional items are not necessary to be submitted.  During the review process DCEO can request additional information or clarification.

   All items that are listed on the uniform application as well as the NOFO are to be submitted through Smart Sheets.

   2. Can applicants enroll residents from other states, such as Indiana?

   No, participants must reside in Illinois and be eligible to work in Illinois.  Reference pages 5-6 of the NOFO.

   3. Can one organization submit more than one application?

   No.

   4. Can organizations apply to more than one category with a single application?

   Yes, entities are to apply for whatever categories they have capacity to support in one application.

   5. I am assuming that the application is written for the full two-year period and not for the first year only. That includes goals, objectives, and the budget?

   Yes. Applications are for the entire award period, which is anticipated 24 months for most grants.

   6. Do you anticipate that there will be additional funding opportunities under JTED in the spring of 2022, and will they have the same requirements?

   There will be another funding in the spring of 2022. There will be many of the same requirements, however, the program model will be examined to better ensure capacity building for provider and smaller providers that have not typically applied for state or federal funds.

   7. How can organizations access the Narrative and Program Training Summary fillable PDF forms WITHOUT a paid license Adobe license? With free Adobe Reader, it DOES NOT allow you to save information typed into the boxes.

   A Word document is available at JTED Notice of Funding Opportunity 2021 (illinoisworknet.com) if you cannot access the Adobe fillable PDF.

   8. How do I access the grant application?

   The application is available at this site.

   9. If an applicant has more than one location do, they need applications for each?

   No, but it would need to be specifically explained in the application. Reference page 24-26 of NOFO.

   10. If our main HQ is in Cincinnati, but we are leveraging the funds for Lake County, IL, can we use previous outcomes for the entire organization?

   The organization's outcomes can be used to demonstrate performance.

   11. Are the anticipated 1,200 individuals anticipated to be served per grantee?

   No, this a cumulative number for the entire JTED program.

   12. Is 1200-1500 the number of participants anticipated to be served each year? Alternatively phrased, over what time period is 1,200-1,500 people the anticipated number of people to be served (e.g. 1 year, 2 years, 3 years)?

   1,200 – 1,500 is the anticipated number of participants to be served within the two years cumulative.

   13. Is the Department providing a backup to Smartsheet submission due to technical issues?

   No, the Smartsheet has proven to be a successful way to transmit the documents.  It is recommended that the documents are submitted 24 hours prior to when it is due to assure successful submission.

   14. Is there a link to the Smartsheet?
   

   Yes, it is included in the NOFO under D. Application and Submission Information on page 19.
   

   15. Other than what is required on the scoring rubric, will there be other efficiency targets other than what is required on the performance metrics and goals?

   No.
   

   16. Regarding scoring rubric: Are there cost/participant or other efficiency targets?

   There are no targets for cost per.  It depends on the depth and breadth of each program and what services will be provided.

   17. The NOFO references a sample MOU available on the webpage, but the webpage currently says the MOU info is "coming soon." Can this be provided so we have time to establish MOUs prior to the grant deadline?

   A sample MOU template is not provided as a resource. Still, a document that outlines elements of Obtaining Strong Support Letters from Collaborators, Contractors is available, and information applies to the development of an MOU.

   18. We would like to know can 501c3 GATA certified can apply for this RFP. An RFP has listed private nonprofit organizations and faith based.

   501C3 organizations are eligible to apply for the JTED program.

   19. What is the word or character count for the Narrative questions? Is there a page limit?

   There is no limit on the word or character count in the text boxes. There is not a page limit, but it is recommended to keep the content descriptive but concise.

   20. Can an applicant apply for operations within just one of the nine areas, so long as you have connections to the others? Or should applications cover all areas?

   Yes, an applicant can select what's most appropriate for their program model, but capacity must be demonstrated as well as how the applicant determined the placement into the training program.

   21. Does DCEO have targets or bands for cost per participant, etc.?

   Anticipated cost per participant can range from $2500 (original JTED) up to $20,000 based on program design and identified barriers of those served.

   22. Is there a defined enrollment period?

   There is not a defined enrollment period but keep in mind that the serves need to be completed at the end of the grant period (2 years).

   23. What is the definition of an employer?

   An employer means that person or company that is registered with the appropriate governmental entities to do business in Illinois, and then employs one or more individuals.

   It's a company that is registered with appropriate governmental entities to do business in any state that is adjacent to Illinois. Organizations that are on bordering states and have partnerships with those businesses could continue those partnerships.

   An employer or eligible entity means a person or company that is registered with the appropriate governmental entity to do business in Illinois, and that employs one or more individuals.

   24. Would adherence to the DOTL sufficiently cover documentation of need?
   

   No. Applicants must demonstrate and provide data on their chosen industry and occupations. Reference page 20 of NOFO.
   

   25. The JTED website and NOFO say that the maximum funding amount is $750,000 and the funding period is for two years. Is the $750,000 funding amount per year (total $1.5 million), or is it meant to be $750,000 for two years of services?

   The maximum funding should be $750,000 for up to two years.
   

   26: The submission order documented on Page 19 of the RFP is different than the order documented on the internet submission form. Please advise which directive to follow.

   Either direction is acceptable.
   

   27. We are partnered with a local Chicago-based foundation, but we have the credentials for the training.  Whose name should be on the application?

   The organization that would enter into a grant agreement with the State of Illinois is the organization that should be the applicant.  This is the organization that would ultimately be responsible for the administration of the program and the grant funds.
   

Illinois workNet

1. Do applicants need to be logged into the [Illinois workNet] system as a part of the application for the grant?
   
   

   No, you do not. The grants are submitted through smartsheets.

   2. For the JTED Grant, will the IWNS process vary from other grant processes or be unique (Example: Youth Career Pathways and AEP)?

   Many of the tools will be familiar to what organizations have used with YCP, for example. However, Illinois workNet strives to make the system easier and quicker for grantees to use. The tools will be like other grants using Illinois workNet, but there will be customization available to this JTED program. 

   3. Is this [Illinois workNet] system required for the application process or post-award?

   The Illinois workNet system is required post-application, once the grant has been awarded. 

   4. Will grantees be required to use Illinois workNet to implement and track their program?

   Yes, awardees will be required to use the Illinois workNet system for implementing and tracking their program.

   5. Will grantees need to use Illinois workNet to track case notes?

   Yes.

   6. Will the IWIS be typical to other grants using that system?

   Yes. When grants are awarded, Illinois workNet staff will reach out to those grantees and request a list of individuals who will need to access to the system. If a grantee already has an Illinois workNet account, Illinois workNet staff can either make the grantee a partner and grant permission to the system's tools or can work with the grantee's staff to access appropriate tools. There will be training on this post-award. 

   7. Will there be training for providers who have not used the new IWIS system through Illinois workNet should they receive a grant?

   Yes, there will be ongoing training.

   8. Will grantees be required to use Illinois workNet to implement and track their program?

   Yes, awardees will be required to use the Illinois workNet system for implementing and tracking their program.

   9. For the JTED Grant, will the IWNS process vary from other grant processes or be unique (Example: Youth Career Pathways and AEP)?

   Many of the tools will be very familiar to what organizations have used with YCP, for example. However, Illinois workNet strives to make the system easier and quicker for grantees to use. The tools will be similar to other grants using Illinois workNet, but there will be customization available to this JTED program.

   10. Do applicants need to be logged into the [Illinois workNet] system as a part of the application for the grant?

   No. The grants are submitted through smartsheets.

   11.  Is this system required for the application process or post-award?

   The Illinois workNet system is required post-application, once the grant has been awarded.

   12.  Will the IWNS be typical to other grants using that system?

   Yes. When grants are awarded, Illinois workNet staff will reach out to those grantees and request a list of individuals who will need to access to the system. If a grantee already has a Illinois workNet account, Illinois workNet staff can either make the grantee a partner and grant permission to the system's tools or can work with the grantee's staff to access appropriate tools. There will be training on this post-award.  

   13.  Will there be training for providers who have not used the new IWIS system through Illinois workNet should they receive a grant?

   Yes, there will be ongoing training.
   

Industry and Sector

1. Would you define manufacturing so that we have a clear understanding what types of occupations and businesses would be included under this sector?
   
   

   U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics provides industry information. The link includes information on Manufacturing Industries at a Glance: Manufacturing: NAICS 31-33 (bls.gov).
   

   2. Can entities propose to work in more than one industry?

   Entities can work with more than one industry, but the industries must be the targeted industries except for employers with 250 or less employees in which you can work with any industry.  Reference page 2 of the NOFO.

   3. Could an applicant serve those in the cosmetology/barbering/esthetics industry?

   Cosmetology/barbering/esthetics is not an industry that we would fund under this application.

   If an applicant desires to serve individuals seeking training and employment in other industry sectors, the applicant must justify, and the Department must approve for inclusion in the grant project. Reference page 2 of the NOFO.

   4. I am seeking confirmation that we can apply for funding to implement an academy focused on information technology or if we really should stay focused on the target industries.

   While the preference is the targeted industries identified on page 2 of the NOFO, the Department will consider applications in the information technology sector.

   5. In your NOFO on page 2, there is a chart of industries stating that other industry sectors must be approved for inclusion. TDL is not listed on the chart but is mentioned on your website as a Covid-impacted industry. Do we need approval for TDL?

   TDL is an approved sector and prior DCEO approval is not necessary.

   6. Is the Food Service Industry included in the Target Industries?

   Yes. Reference page 2 of NOFO.

   7. Is Transportation, Distribution, and Logistics (TDL) considered to be part of the Manufacturing industry (i.e. is TDL an allowable industry focus for training under this grant)?

   While the preference is the targeted industries identified on page 2 of the NOFO, the Department will consider applications within the TDL sector.

   8. We noticed that TDL is listed as one of the targeted industries on the Illinois Worknet web page. However, TDL is not listed in the NOFO. Would you please confirm that TDL is one of the targeted industries for this NOFO?

   While the preference is the targeted industries identified on page 2 of the NOFO, the Department will consider applications within the TDL sector.

   9. For Youth category, do applicants have to match participants only within target industries?

   No. It is preferable to place Youth within Target Industries, but not required. Reasoning and data must also be demonstrated and used within the application for the placement of participants outside Target Industries. Reference page 6 of NOFO.
   

   10. Does solar construction qualify as one of the trades that can apply for this grant?   

   Yes.
   

Partnership Agreements/MOUs

1. If we need more time to identify specific industries for the population we will be serving after assessing the individuals themselves once programming is underway, is it okay to speak broadly in the application about potential training partnerships?
   
   

   No, you must either serve the targeted sectors or identify in the application specific sectors that you plan to serve and provided justification.  The entity can serve employers regardless of sector is the employer has 250m or less employees, but this must be identified in the application. (Reference page 2 of the NOFO)
   

   2. In partnerships, such as an industry association or a workforce service partner, is the NOFO requesting a specific prime applicant? Or is it more about capacity to manage the grant, regardless of the spend distribution among partners?

   The NOFO is not requesting a prime partnership. Applicants must demonstrate capacity to manage the grant. Reference page 5-6 and Appendix C of NOFO.

   3. Can an organization be a subcontracted partner for more than one Applicant Organization?

   Applicant will identify who their partners are, and an organization can be included in more than one application especially if the organization is an eligible training provider.
   

Program Design

1. Are applicants that include deliverables in more than one category seen as more positive applicants, or is it more about quality within one category vs. wide breadth of services?
   
   

   ​It is about the quality of service and how an applicant demonstrates their capacity. If an applicant applies to more than one category, they need to demonstrate their capacity to execute their deliverables for each. An applicant applying to more than one category will not be weighted more with the merit review process versus an applicant applying to only one category. Reference page 4 of NOFO.

   2. Are there application funding limits by category?

   There are no funding limits by category.  A funding range of $500 - 750K is established for the program.  Reference page 16 of the NOFO.

   3. Can applicants apply in all four categories?

   Yes. Reference page 4 of NOFO.

   4. If we apply for, and receive, this round of JTED funding, can we also apply for the round released in the spring, but in different program categories? (ex. job seekers and barrier reduction this NOFO, youth for the spring NOFO)

   Yes, entities can apply for both rounds of JTED.

   5. Is the NOFO asking for programs that operate in all categories, just one category, or a combination?

   Entities can apply for one or all the categories in their application submission.  Entities need the capacity to successfully serve businesses and individuals in each category proposed.

   6. To which categories does the "less than 250 employees" apply?

   All categories can work with employers with 250 or fewer employees regardless of industry.  Reference page 2 of the NOFO.

   7. Will applicants that apply for all categories seen as more positive applications?

   No. Applicants will be reviewed based on their capacity to execute the categories in which they apply.

   8. Can organizations apply to more than one category with a single application?

   Yes, entities are to apply for whatever categories they have capacity to support in one application.
   

Training

1. Are Training Institutions that are approved ETPL training providers eligible to apply for this opportunity as a stand-alone institution?
   
   

   Yes, public, or private educational institutions are eligible entities reference page 2 of the NOFO.

   2. Can we leverage short certifications from local Community Colleges for training?

   Yes, short certifications from local community colleges can be leveraged for training. Reference page 5 and 25 of NOFO.

   3. Can you please confirm that this is correct? If the high school diploma counts under this requirement for a credential/certificate, then we would be able to propose a scope of work for this solicitation. Otherwise, we would not be a good fit?

   A high school diploma would count as a credential under JTED.

   4. Does the length of the training have a limit?

   No, but keep in mind that this is a two-year grant and services must be completed within the grant period.

   5. If the applicant is looking at short-term credentials and getting individuals to help fill positions impacted by COVID. Will the application be viewed negatively if it cannot show an immediate impact? This can take up to 3-5 months in some cases.

   Applicants must demonstrate the impact that their program will have on participants at the end of the two-year grant period. Applicants must design or use curriculum that will impact participants in the community. Reference pages 14-15 and 21 of NOFO.

   6. Is this credential considered an "industry-recognized credential" under the NOFO on Page 2: Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) Certification?

   Yes, this credential qualifies as an "industry-recognized credential."

   7. May our organization act as a training provider if their IBHE application is under review?
   

   The entity can apply for funding under JTED while the training program is under review by IBHE however the entity must have an approved training program before the grant is approved.

   8. Who determines what qualifies as an industry-recognized certificate or credential? Can the training provider (or grantee) determine that the certificate or credential is "industry-recognized" or does a qualified entity have to recognize it?

   Answer forthcoming.  Reference page 10 and 14 of NOFO.
   

Youth

1. Are Youth required to be Out-of-School?
   
   

   ​No, all Youth ages 16-24 are applicable. Reference Appendix A of NOFO.

   2. For Category 3 youth services, are programs serving youth ages 18 - 25 eligible for this category, and do we have to also serve youth ages 16-17 in this category?

   Eligible youth must be between the ages 16-24. Programs do not need to serve the entire eligible age group, but the ages of participants must be between 16-24 years old.
   Reference page 6 of the NOFO.

   3. For Youth category, do applicants have to match participants only within target industries?
   

   No. It is preferable to place Youth within Target Industries, but not required. Reasoning and data must also be demonstrated and used within the application for the placement of participants outside Target Industries. Reference page 6 of NOFO.

   4. How must we demonstrate that the youth we are serving (ages 16-19) face one or more barriers to education, training, or employment?

   In workNet (JTED Notice of Funding Opportunity 2021 (illinoisworknet.com)) under resources there is a document that list Adult and Youth risk factors.  Documentation of any of these risk factors can demonstrate one or more barriers.

   5. Can youth be paid stipends for participating in training? (How about adults?)

   Yes, stipends are an allowable expenditure.