Future Energy Jobs Act Multi-Cultural Jobs Program

The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity administers the Future Energy Jobs Act Multi-Cultural Jobs Program to expand workforce development opportunities in the clean energy sector. This initiative is grounded in statewide policy frameworks established under the Future Energy Jobs Act and the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act, both of which aim to stimulate job growth through investments in renewable energy, energy efficiency, and workforce training. The program prioritizes equitable economic development by focusing on underserved populations and communities that have historically faced barriers to employment. It seeks to build a skilled workforce capable of supporting Illinois’ transition to a clean energy economy. The primary purpose of this funding opportunity is to support organizations that can deliver comprehensive job training programs that combine technical instruction, work-based learning, and supportive services. These programs are expected to prepare participants for careers in clean energy industries such as solar, HVAC, energy auditing, and construction trades. Training must align with the Clean Jobs Curriculum Framework and include both foundational bridge programs and job-specific training pathways. Participants are expected to gain industry-recognized credentials and develop both technical and soft skills necessary for employment. Funding under this opportunity is provided through state appropriations and is structured to support a limited number of awards across specific applicant categories. Each award is fixed at a defined amount and is intended to support program implementation over a multi-year performance period. Allowable costs include training delivery, staffing, supportive services, and program administration, provided they are necessary and reasonable. Administrative costs are expected to remain a small portion of the total budget. Matching funds are not required but may strengthen an application during the review process. Eligibility is limited to nonprofit organizations that meet specific category requirements and demonstrate experience in delivering job training programs. Applicants must be diversity-focused community organizations with a proven track record of workforce development and must align with one of the designated categories eligible under this funding round. Additional eligibility requirements include registration in the state grant portal, compliance with federal and state regulations, and maintaining good standing with relevant oversight bodies. Applicants must also demonstrate capacity to serve targeted populations such as low-income individuals, formerly incarcerated persons, and residents of designated equity investment communities. The application process requires submission of a comprehensive package including a uniform grant application, detailed budget, disclosures, and multiple programmatic attachments such as a work plan, staffing plan, curriculum plan, and projected outcomes. Applications are submitted electronically through a designated portal. While the announcement indicates a general open period, applications are effectively accepted on a rolling basis until funding categories are filled, with a stated deadline for submissions. Evaluation is conducted through a merit-based review process that assesses applicant capacity, program quality, documented need, and cost effectiveness. Applications are reviewed competitively by an evaluation committee, and awards are made to the highest scoring proposals within each category. Successful applicants enter into a negotiation phase to finalize grant terms and conditions. The anticipated performance period begins in late 2025 and extends through mid-2027, with the possibility of an extension. Reporting requirements include regular financial and performance reports, as well as ongoing data tracking related to participant outcomes and employment metrics. Key contacts for this opportunity include program managers and a general grant help desk within the administering agency. Applicants are encouraged to review all requirements carefully and ensure compliance with submission guidelines. Additional information, including application materials and guidance, is available through the agency’s official grant opportunities website.

Applications should clearly align with the Clean Jobs Curriculum Framework and demonstrate strong community partnerships and capacity for program implementation.