Grants 101

Welcome to the Grants 101 page for workforce related funding opportunities in the State of Illinois.  On this page you will find information such as:

  • The Grant Lifecycle;
  • A Grants Checklist;
  • A GATA Resource Library;
  • A Glossary; and
  • FAQs.


The Grant Lifecycle

The grant process follows a linear lifecycle that includes creating the funding opportunity, applying, making award decisions, and successfully implementing the award.

The specific actions along the lifecycle are grouped into three main phases. Each of the three phases has its own page that provides a more detailed look at the process:

Pre-Award Phase - Funding Opportunities and Application Review

Award Phase - Award Decisions and Notifications

Post Award - Implementation, Reporting, and Closeout



Grant Checklist

The grant process has several steps and components. To make sure you are on the right track, refer to the Getting Started Checklist here.



GATA Resource Library
The Grant Accountability and Transparency Act (GATA), 30 ILCS 708/1 et seq., is a State of Illinois law to increase accountability and transparency in the use of grant funds while reducing the administrative burden on both State agencies and grantees through adoption of the federal grant guidance and regulations codified at 2 CFR Part 200 (Uniform Requirements). Resources and related links about the GATA are included on this page.


Grants Glossary

To learn more about terms related to grants and GATA, use the GATA Glossary of Related Terms and the Illinois workNet Grants Glossary for funding opportunities.



GATA FAQs
For frequently asked questions about GATA, reference GATA FAQs by Topic.

For NOFO-specific questions, refer to the FAQ page.