Job Training Economic Development Program

The Job Training Economic Development Program (JTED) is administered by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) to strengthen workforce development and economic growth across the state. Originally established in 1997 and most recently updated in 2021, JTED is designed to support individuals who are unemployed, underemployed, or underrepresented in the labor force. The primary aim of the program is to provide comprehensive training opportunities that align with the needs of employers in Illinois’s in-demand sectors while helping participants gain skills to achieve stable, family-sustaining employment. JTED funding enables grantees to offer a wide variety of services including career pathway planning, occupational and skills training, work-based learning, and supportive and barrier reduction services. The grant prioritizes training programs that are aligned with Illinois’ target industries, such as transportation and logistics, advanced manufacturing, clean energy, life sciences, and more. Projects may be tailored to adult (18+) or youth (16–24) populations, but each applicant may only apply for one category. Both program tracks emphasize equity and inclusion by targeting populations with barriers to employment, such as justice-involved individuals, immigrants, refugees, and residents of disproportionately impacted communities. Eligible applicants include employers, nonprofits (including faith-based organizations), WIOA administrative entities, Community Action Agencies, industry associations, and accredited public or private educational institutions. Local governments not serving as WIOA administrative entities are not eligible. Participants must be Illinois residents with low-to-moderate income who are eligible to work in the state. Each project must be backed by partnerships with training providers and employers, and supported by MOUs outlining roles and resource commitments. Applicants must submit a comprehensive package including a Uniform Grant Application, Budget, Conflict of Interest Disclosure, Mandatory Disclosure, Program Application, Implementation Plan, and relevant training provider certifications. All applications are due by 11:59 PM Central on January 16, 2026. Submissions are accepted electronically through a SmartSheet form provided by DCEO. While technical assistance sessions are not scheduled before the deadline, successful applicants must participate in mandatory TA throughout the grant period. Applications are evaluated on a 100-point scale across four criteria: capacity, need, program plan, and budget effectiveness. Award announcements are expected after the merit review concludes, with the performance period running from May 1, 2026 through April 30, 2028. Awards range from $250,000 to $750,000 with a total anticipated funding pool of $10 million. No cost share is required, and indirect costs are allowed without specific restrictions. The program is recurring, and a new cycle is expected to open in November 2026.

Applications that include robust employer partnerships, address industry skill gaps, and clearly integrate equity-focused design are favored. Must include realistic performance metrics and describe program sustainability.