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The Illinois Department of Commerce requests applications for projects that address the priorities identified in the State of Illinois Workforce Plan for pilots that integrate workforce, education and economic development services; that break down barriers to accessing job-driven training resulting in employment opportunities; and, that assist in the effective and efficient implementation of WIOA regulations within Illinois’ economic development regions.

Deadline to be considered in this fiscal year is May 15, 2017

WIOA Statewide Workforce Activities - Request for Application (MS Word)

The Illinois Talent Pipeline Program uses strategies to train workers who can contribute to a companies' growth and success.  Projects funded under this program are intended to develop sustainable work-based learning programs to help Illinois companies retain and train current workers and hire new staff.  The goal of a talent pipeline grant is to maintain a pipeline of hirable talent for the employer being served.  Applications must address one or more of the Illinois Talent Pipeline activities listed below to be considered for funding.

• Projects that connect talent strategies with business needs.
  
• Layoff aversion projects that support businesses and workers that are impacted or at risk of being impacted by company closures or layoffs.
  
• Projects that expand work-based learning opportunities including apprenticeships for targeted populations. 
  

Find more information on the Illinois Talent Pipeline Program here!

The Youth Career Pathways Program will provide grants for projects that address priorities identified in the WIOA Unified State Plan and incorporate the practices of the statewide adopted definition for a career pathway framework.  Proposals must serve opportunity youth with barriers that prevent continued education and employment.  Successful pilot projects will integrate workforce, education, and economic development services and address barriers to accessing job-driven training resulting in employment opportunities.  These projects will inform the development of sustainable career pathways for young people throughout the state. Additionally, funded proposals support the effective implementation of WIOA regulations within Illinois' economic development regions.

Find more information on the Youth Career Pathways Program here!

The WIOA Statewide Workforce Innovation Program can fund projects that support the vision, principles, goals and strategies articulated within the WIOA Unified State Plan.  Applicants should document how the project will impact the competitive position of Illinois businesses and workers through workforce development, education, and economic development projects that can be replicated throughout the State (as applicable).  Applications must address one or more of the WIOA Statewide Workforce Activities listed below to be considered for funding.

• Sector Partnership Projects
• Innovative Workforce Pilot and Research Projects
• Priority Population Projects
• Statewide Technical Assistance