Workforce Training Support Program

The Strategic Workforce Training Support grant, administered by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), aims to bolster the state's manufacturing sector by providing essential training assistance to its workforce. With a clear understanding of the challenges manufacturers face in training and retaining skilled employees, this initiative is designed to empower employers with the resources needed to ensure their staff are safe, productive, and equipped to adapt to evolving manufacturing environments. Structured educational programs supported by this grant emphasize technical proficiency, equipment handling, process optimization, and safety compliance—critical elements that enable workers to contribute meaningfully on the production floor. The program is closely aligned with and serves as a supplement to the existing Employer Training Investment Program (ETIP). This grant specifically targets nonprofit organizations in Illinois that support workforce training in manufacturing. Eligible applicants must already participate in DCEO's ETIP initiative. The intended beneficiaries are employees working across Illinois-based manufacturing companies. The grant funding will enable these nonprofits to expand the scale and impact of their training efforts. Metrics of success include the number of small and medium-sized manufacturers engaged and the total number of training hours delivered. The program also aims to enhance regional workforce readiness, strengthen industry competitiveness, and contribute to economic development within the state. Funds awarded through the program can be used for various types of training, including adapting to new processes or equipment, obtaining quality certifications, developing export capabilities, complying with regulatory standards, and improving basic workplace skills. Leadership development and costs related to internal instructors or external training fees are also allowable expenses. Awards are disbursed on a reimbursement basis, requiring grantees to front the costs and submit evidence of training and its impact across the state. The application process is conducted via SmartSheets, where applicants must complete and submit the necessary forms as outlined in the Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO). While there are no additional selection factors or evaluation criteria beyond a merit review, applicants are expected to include comprehensive reporting on training outcomes. These reports must detail the number of employees trained, the types of training provided, and measurable impacts across geographic regions in Illinois. Quarterly performance and financial reports are required throughout the grant period. The FY26 cycle of the program allocates $2 million, following a prior round in FY25 where $2.6 million supported the training of over 50,000 workers. Applications for this cycle are due by March 1, 2026. Approved applications can expect a decision within 20 days. While the grant does not require a cost share or matching funds, it does not allow for renewals. The performance period and other award-specific details are governed by Illinois statutes and administrative rules (20 ILCS 605/605-800 and Title 56, Part 2650). For further inquiries, interested applicants may contact Sergio Talavera at the DCEO via phone at (217) 858-2474 or email at sergio.talavera2@illinois.gov. Appeals related to the merit-based review must be filed within 14 days of denial and are limited strictly to evaluation process procedures.