The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) has announced a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for the Future Energy Jobs Act Craft Apprenticeship Program. This grant is issued under the authority of the Future Energy Jobs Act (FEJA) and the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA), which aim to foster job growth in the clean energy economy across Illinois. The purpose of this NOFO is to identify a single organization capable of coordinating a statewide program to support registered apprenticeships and pre-apprenticeships in the electric industry, including but not limited to the solar sector.

The program's objectives are to develop career pathways, provide training, and implement apprenticeships in various electric industry sectors. These include electricians and electric line installers. The grantee will manage a comprehensive statewide program that coordinates with regional and statewide partners. The program must support diverse low-income and economically disadvantaged populations, displaced energy workers, individuals from environmental justice communities, and equity investment eligible persons, such as formerly incarcerated individuals or foster care system graduates.

Key program components include developing and supporting Registered Apprenticeship Programs (RAPs), Pre-Apprenticeship Programs, and Youth Apprenticeships. All training must align with standards defined in the Illinois Career Pathways Dictionary and the U.S. Department of Labor requirements. Pre-apprenticeships must be linked to existing or developing RAPs. The training model must include work-based learning, industry-aligned curriculum, and supportive services to aid participant retention. The selected grantee will also be expected to report on detailed program metrics such as enrollment, apprenticeship transitions, and participant completions.

Applications are being accepted from March 21, 2025, to May 5, 2025, by 11:59 p.m. CST. A technical assistance webinar is scheduled for April 4, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. Registration is available online. While attendance at the session is not mandatory, it is encouraged. The anticipated award announcement is expected shortly after the close of the application window, with the award term beginning on June 1, 2025. The initial funding period is 24 months with the possibility of a 12-month renewal based on performance.

Applicants must be Illinois-based public or private organizations registered in the Illinois GATA Grantee Portal and in good standing with all state and federal requirements. While matching funds are not required, they are encouraged and will contribute positively to the merit review. Application components include a Uniform Grant Application, budget, technical proposal, project work plan, staff resumes, and partnership agreements.

For additional support, applicants can contact Program Manager Chase Martin at chase.martin2@illinois.gov or the Grant Help Desk at CEO.GrantHelp@illinois.gov. More details, templates, and the full NOFO can be accessed via the Illinois workNet portal.