The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) is offering the Internship & Workforce Upskilling Program for Small and Mid-sized Manufacturers, under Notice of Funding Opportunity number 3539-2979. This grant opportunity supports workforce development initiatives aimed at addressing workforce challenges faced by small and mid-sized manufacturers across the state of Illinois. As part of Illinois' ongoing economic development efforts, this program intends to strengthen the manufacturing workforce pipeline and help manufacturers attract, train, and retain skilled workers.

The primary purpose of this funding opportunity is to provide financial support for programs that facilitate internships, workforce training, and upskilling initiatives for small and mid-sized manufacturers. The funding can be used to support internship wages, workforce training program costs, instructional services, curriculum development, and related administrative expenses. By investing in upskilling programs and work-based learning experiences, DCEO aims to enhance the employability of workers while addressing the talent gaps that manufacturers report as a critical barrier to growth.

This is a state-funded grant with a total program funding amount of $2,600,000. Only one award will be issued under this opportunity. There are no cost-sharing or matching requirements, and indirect costs are allowed without specific restrictions. Eligible applicants include organizations that are able to administer internship and upskilling programs that serve the needs of small and mid-sized manufacturers in Illinois.

Applications must be submitted between February 21, 2025, and March 24, 2025, by 5:00 PM Central Time. There are no technical assistance sessions scheduled for this opportunity. All applicants must complete the pre-qualification process through the Grant Accountability and Transparency Act (GATA) Grantee Portal to be considered for funding. Applicants must also submit required documents, including the NOFO Supplement, Program Application, Uniform Grant Application, Uniform Budget Template, Mandatory Disclosure, and Conflict of Interest Disclosure forms.

Applications will be evaluated based on criteria outlined in the NOFO document, which typically includes organizational capacity, program design, expected outcomes, alignment with state economic development priorities, and budget justification. Interested applicants should refer to the CSFA link provided for full application materials and further details.