The Clean Energy Career and Technical Education Pilot Program is a grant opportunity administered by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO). This program is designed to support career pathways and technical education initiatives in clean energy fields. As part of Illinois’ commitment to fostering workforce development in the clean energy sector, this program aims to fund projects that create educational programs, training opportunities, and career pathways for individuals seeking employment in the clean energy industry.

The grant program will provide a total of $4 million in funding, with individual awards ranging from $250,000 to $750,000. The program anticipates awarding approximately 8 grants. Funding is sourced entirely from state funds, and applicants are not required to provide cost-sharing or matching funds. Indirect costs are allowed with no specific restrictions. The goal is to support educational institutions, workforce agencies, and other eligible organizations in developing innovative, effective programs that address workforce needs in the clean energy economy.

Eligible applicants must be pre-qualified prior to submission. Pre-qualification resources and guidance can be found on the DCEO Grant Opportunities Learning Library website. The application period opens on February 10, 2025, and closes on June 30, 2025, at 5:00 PM. A technical assistance session will be offered on March 5, 2025, at 10:00 AM. This session is optional, but attendance is encouraged to ensure applicants fully understand program requirements and the application process. Registration for the session can be completed through Illinois workNet.

Applicants must complete several required documents to submit a complete application. These include the NOFO Supplement, the Program Application, the Uniform Grant Application, the Uniform Budget Template, and the DCEO Mandatory Disclosure and Conflict of Interest Disclosure forms. These documents provide a comprehensive framework for understanding eligibility, allowable costs, and expected outcomes.

The program is part of Illinois’ broader economic development and workforce strategy, aligning with state-level goals to advance clean energy, create jobs, and expand technical education opportunities. By supporting local initiatives that train workers for emerging clean energy careers, the program contributes directly to workforce readiness and economic growth in Illinois.