Integrated English Language and Civics Education (IELCE)

The Integrated English Language and Civics Education (IELCE) program, administered by the Illinois Community College Board (ICCB), is designed to support adult education providers in delivering integrated English literacy and civics education services. This program is authorized under Title II of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), specifically Section 243, and aims to help English Language Learners (ELLs) attain English proficiency and acquire skills necessary for effective participation in the workforce, education, and civic life. The funding for this program is provided through federal sources, with federal appropriations determining the availability and allocation of funds. The FY27 IELCE grant provides financial support to existing grantees from the FY25 funding cycle to carry out the integrated instruction of literacy, workforce preparation, and civics education. These services must include English language acquisition, civics instruction, and workforce training activities that prepare adults for unsubsidized employment in in-demand sectors. The program particularly emphasizes integration with local workforce development systems, and successful applicants are expected to align with those local systems to deliver services that advance economic self-sufficiency for participants. Eligible applicants include government, educational, and nonprofit organizations that previously received funding through the FY25 IELCE competition. In addition to English language instruction and civics education, the program mandates the inclusion of Integrated Education and Training or participation in the Integrated Career & Academic Preparation System (ICAPS). These components aim to ensure that participants are both linguistically and occupationally prepared for sustainable employment. The use of funds must comply with federal and state regulations, including restrictions on indirect costs, which are capped at 5% of the total federal award. The total funding available for the FY27 cycle is $3,000,000, with individual awards ranging between $5,000 and $500,000. Approximately 35 awards are expected to be made. Programs are required to submit detailed reporting on student progress, expenditures, and outcomes. These include quarterly programmatic reports, annual budgets, and compliance with equipment inventory policies. Recipients must maintain all records for at least five years and follow strict guidelines regarding the expenditure and obligation of funds. The application submission process is managed through the Illinois Amplifund Grants Management System. Applications open on March 31, 2026, and close on May 15, 2026, at 5:00 PM CDT. There are no extensions allowed, and applicants are encouraged to consult the ICCB website for the full NOFO and related application documents. Questions regarding the application may be submitted by email to Amplifund support until May 15, 2026, at 4:30 PM CDT. While not mandatory, an informational bidder’s webinar will be held on April 21, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM to provide guidance on the application process. Funding for years three and four of this multi-year grant is contingent upon successful performance in the earlier years. The criteria for continued eligibility and performance expectations will be outlined in the IELCE Provider’s Guide. Notifications of awards are expected by March 31, 2026, and the performance period for this grant will span from July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027. The IELCE program supports recurring annual funding cycles, providing eligible adult education providers with opportunities to sustain and expand their service offerings for immigrant and English-learner populations across Illinois.

Attend the informational webinar on April 21, 2026 for helpful guidance.