Grant program designed to train underrepresented population to successfully enter the construction industry and the trades. The program focuses removing barriers for entry and transitioning graduates to DOL-registered apprenticeship programs. The goal of the Illinois Works Act is to ensure that all Illinois residents have access to State capital
projects and careers in the construction industry and building trades, as well as provide contracting and
employment opportunities to historically underrepresented populations in the construction industry and
the trades. The Illinois Works Pre-apprenticeship NOFO and program is a critical component in the
success of the Act, by increasing the number of qualified construction and building trades apprentices
who are women, people of color, veterans or from otherwise underrepresented populations (as defined by
the Illinois Works Jobs Program Act) and preparing them to enter full apprenticeship programs on their
way to careers in construction and the building trades.
