DCEO Workforce Training Support Program

The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) has announced the Workforce Training Support Program (Notice of Funding Opportunity 3551-2978), aimed at strengthening the workforce through innovative training initiatives. With total program funding of $2.6 million, this grant opportunity seeks to support projects that enhance workforce development, improve employment outcomes, and build the capacity of Illinois' training infrastructure. This state-funded program will issue a single award, indicating a competitive and focused investment into a high-impact workforce training initiative. Eligible applicants must meet cost-sharing or matching requirements. While indirect costs are not allowed, applicants should budget carefully within the program’s scope to meet all deliverable expectations. The funding instrument is a grant, and applications are open from March 18, 2025, to April 17, 2025, closing at 5:00 PM Central Time. Applicants must be pre-qualified through the State of Illinois’ GATA (Grant Accountability and Transparency Act) system to be considered. Resources and documentation required for submission include a completed Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) Supplement, program application, uniform grant application and budget, and associated schedules (A, B, and C). Additionally, applicants must submit a conflict of interest disclosure and a mandatory disclosure form. The application process is technical and requires thorough compliance with state guidelines. While there is no scheduled technical assistance session, applicants are strongly encouraged to utilize DCEO’s online learning library for guidance. The program does not allow for indirect cost recovery, so all proposed budgets should allocate funds strictly toward eligible direct expenses. The opportunity is ideal for institutions or partnerships with the infrastructure and vision to implement scalable workforce development solutions. The emphasis will likely be on capacity-building and outcome-driven models that can demonstrate measurable benefits to Illinois workers and employers.