The Illinois Youth Investment Program (IYIP) is a state-funded initiative aimed at empowering at-risk youth in Illinois, aged 16-24, by providing them with short-term, long-term, and career development employment opportunities. With a total funding allocation of $30 million, the program seeks to address high-risk factors such as youth unemployment, low educational attainment, and community-based disparities. Grants will support activities such as paid work experiences, apprenticeships, career development, and necessary supportive services. Awards will be distributed across seven counties, with individual grants ranging from up to $1 million for single organizations to $5 million for community intermediaries.

Eligibility is restricted to nonprofit organizations, government entities, and schools with a minimum of two years' experience serving at-risk youth in their designated areas. Applicants must provide tailored programming for youth residing in low-income households or those facing barriers like homelessness, justice system involvement, or disability. Organizations are required to demonstrate experience in youth employment services and their capacity to manage state grants effectively.

Applications are due by December 11, 2024, at noon, and must be submitted as a single PDF file. A competitive merit-based review process will assess proposals on organizational capacity, the description of community needs, equity and racial justice commitment, program design quality, and budget alignment with program goals. The selected programs will begin implementation by February 2025, with subsequent performance evaluations to ensure alignment with objectives.

For additional support, the program offers a technical assistance session and provides resources such as an employment equity plan template and budget instructions. Organizations must also meet federal and state compliance requirements, including pre-registration with the System for Award Management (SAM) and adherence to reporting and financial accountability protocols. This grant opportunity aligns with Illinois' efforts to advance equity, counter systemic disparities, and build pathways for sustainable youth employment.